Overseas Domestic Worker visa
- Details
- Written by: Wembley Solicitors
If you are considering applying for an Overseas Domestic Worker visa from outside the UK, call our immigration solicitors based in London on 0203 417 3700. We can help with your Overseas Domestic Worker visa application by providing expert guidance, legal advice, and support throughout the process.
Table of Contents
- What is an Overseas Domestic Worker visa?
- UK Domestic Worker visa requirements
- List of domestic workers
- UK Domestic Worker visa minimum wage
- How to apply for an Overseas Domestic Worker visa from outside the UK?
- Overseas Domestic Worker visa fees
- Overseas Domestic Worker visa processing time
- How long you can stay on an Overseas Domestic Worker visa?
- How can we help with your Overseas Domestic Worker visa application?
- Need legal advice and assistance?
What is an Overseas Domestic Worker visa?
The UK Overseas Domestic Worker visa is a specific visa category that allows domestic workers from overseas to accompany their employers to the UK for a short period. This visa is designed to provide domestic workers with the opportunity to work in the UK while accompanying their employers who are visiting the country.
UK Domestic Worker visa requirements
You can apply for an Overseas Domestic Worker visa to visit the UK with your employer if you:
- are 19 or older on the date of application
- live outside the UK
- are a domestic worker in a private household
- have worked for your employer for at least one year before applying
- plan to travel to the UK with your employer, their partner or children
- plan to leave the UK at the end of 6 months
- are able to support yourself in the UK without the need for public funds
Above is a general list of eligibility requirements. You must meet all other eligibility requirements depending on your circumstances.
Your employer
Your employer must be either a:
- British citizen who usually lives outside the UK and who does not intend to remain in the UK for more than 6 months
- foreign citizen who is coming to the UK on a visit and who does not intend to remain for more than 6 months
It's advisable to consult with an immigration solicitor, as immigration policies and eligibility criteria may change over time.
List of domestic workers
Domestic workers include:
- cleaners
- chauffeurs
- cooks
- those providing personal care for the employer and their family
- nannies
UK Domestic Worker visa minimum wage
When you work in the UK as an overseas domestic worker, your employer must pay you an agreed rate, which must be at least the national minimum wage and your employer must not force you to work excessive hours.
How to apply for an Overseas Domestic Worker visa from outside the UK?
Here are general steps you might need to follow:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Overseas Domestic Worker visa. Typically, this includes being employed as a domestic worker for at least one year before applying and planning to work in a diplomatic household.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather all the required documents such as your passport, a letter from your employer confirming your job title, a completed ‘Appendix domestic worker statement’ signed by both you and your employer etc.
- Complete the Online Application: Apply online for the Overseas Domestic Worker visa on the official UK government website. Fill out the application form accurately and upload the necessary documents.
- Biometric Appointment: You may need to schedule a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and a photograph. This can usually be done at a visa application centre.
- Pay Fees: Pay the relevant visa fees. The fees can vary, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
- Wait for a Decision: After submitting your application, you'll need to wait for a decision. Processing times can vary, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel.
- Receive Decision: Once a decision has been made, you will be notified of the outcome. If your application is successful, you'll receive a visa in your passport.
Overseas Domestic Worker visa fees
The application fee for an Overseas Domestic Worker visa depends on the type of application and where you apply from.
Please note that these fees are subject to change, and you should always check the most up-to-date information on the UK government's official website before applying for a visa.
Overseas Domestic Worker visa processing time
You should get a decision on your Overseas Domestic Worker visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK using a standard service.
Applicants are advised to check the latest information about UK visa application processing time on the official UK government website.
How long you can stay on an Overseas Domestic Worker visa?
You can use an Overseas Domestic Worker visa to visit the UK with your employer for up to 6 months. You must return home at the end of the 6 months. You cannot extend an Overseas Domestic Worker visa.
How can we help with your Overseas Domestic Worker visa application?
Our expert team of UK immigration solicitors and lawyers can assist you with any type of Overseas Domestic Worker visa application.
Immigration solicitors at Wembley Solicitors will:
- Provide detailed immigration advice.
- Assess your circumstances and eligibility for a UK visa application.
- Explain the entire UK visa application process.
- Give you a completed checklist of documents according to the type of visa application and your circumstances.
- Check all the supporting documents to ensure that they are sufficient and in the correct format.
- Fill out the complete application form and prepare detailed representations/cover letter for the Home Office UKVI about the Immigration Rules.
- Book an appointment for you to enrol your biometrics.
- Upload all the supporting documents.
- Liaise with the Home Office UKVI throughout the process until we receive the decision.
- Keep you updated with every stage of your visa or immigration application.
Contact our immigration solicitors in Wembley, London on 020 3417 3700 or fill in the enquiry form for immediate legal advice & assistance with your UK visa application.
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Contact our solicitor today to get legal advice and assistance with your UK immigration matters.
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Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.