The Charity Worker visa is the UK’s route for international volunteers doing unpaid voluntary work for a registered charity. Part of the Temporary Work routes, it allows stays of up to 12 months. This 2026 guide explains who qualifies, the strict “unpaid” rule, sponsorship, cost and how to apply.
What is it for?
It’s for genuinely voluntary, unpaid work that directly supports a UK-registered charity’s charitable objectives — for example fieldwork or hands-on project support.
The strict “unpaid” rule
The work must be unpaid: no salary, wages or payment in kind beyond reasonable expenses (travel, meals and accommodation while volunteering). It cannot be administrative work, fundraising, charity-shop or retail work, or any role normally done by a paid employee.
Sponsorship and length
The charity must hold an A-rated Temporary Worker sponsor licence and issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship. You can stay up to 12 months (or your CoS time + 14 days, whichever is shorter).
Cost and requirements
You’ll need at least £1,270 available to support yourself. The application fee is around £340 plus the IHS (roughly £1,375 in total for 12 months). There’s no English test and no minimum salary. A decision usually takes about 3 weeks from outside the UK. Note the 12-month cooling-off period after the visa expires (shared with the other Temporary Work routes).
Frequently asked questions
What is the Charity Worker visa?
A Temporary Work route for unpaid voluntary work for a UK-registered charity, for up to 12 months.
Can I be paid on a Charity Worker visa?
No — it’s strictly unpaid (only reasonable expenses); admin, fundraising and charity-shop work aren’t allowed.
Do I need a sponsor?
Yes — the charity must hold an A-rated Temporary Worker sponsor licence and issue a Certificate of Sponsorship.
How long can I stay?
Up to 12 months, or your CoS time plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.
How much does it cost?
Around £340 plus the IHS — roughly £1,375 in total for 12 months — and you need £1,270 in savings.
Is there a cooling-off period?
Yes — a 12-month cooling-off period after the visa expires, shared with the Religious Worker route.
