Overview
The Minister of Religion visa (T2) is designed for faith leaders and religious workers to serve in the UK. You must be sponsored by a bona fide religious organization that holds a valid sponsor licence. The role must involve pastoral duties, such as leading a congregation, preaching, or performing religious rites.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK employer. You must demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR level B2 and show you have sufficient personal savings (£1,270) to support yourself, unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance on the CoS.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Secure Sponsorship
Obtain a job offer and a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed UK religious organization.
- 2
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Gather evidence of your identity, English language ability, and financial maintenance.
- 3
Step 3: Apply Online
Complete the online visa application form and pay the application fee and healthcare surcharge.
- 4
Step 4: Biometrics
Book and attend an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
Required documents
- Valid passport or travel document
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Evidence of English language proficiency
- Proof of personal savings (bank statements)
- Tuberculosis test results (if from a listed country)
- Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
This route allows you to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK.
Family options
You can bring your partner and children under 18 as dependants. They may live, work, and study in the UK for the duration of your visa.
Language notes
You must prove your English language ability at B2 level. This can be done through a Secure English Language Test (SELT) or by providing evidence of a degree taught in English.
After arrival
You will need to collect your biometric residence permit (BRP) or access your digital eVisa status. You must notify the Home Office if your circumstances change, such as a change in your job or sponsor.
Common pitfalls
- Applying more than 3 months before the job start date
- Failing to meet the 28-day financial holding period for savings
- Providing an expired or invalid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Incorrectly applying for the 'Religious Worker' visa (temporary) instead of the 'Minister of Religion' visa (settlement route)
FAQs about Minister of Religion visa (T2)
Who is the Minister of Religion visa (T2) for?+
Individuals who have been offered a pastoral or religious role by a licensed faith-based organization in the UK.
What are the eligibility requirements for Minister of Religion visa (T2)?+
To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK employer. You must demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR level B2 and show you have sufficient personal savings (£1,270) to support yourself, unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance on the CoS.
How much does the Minister of Religion visa (T2) cost?+
Typical fees listed for Minister of Religion visa (T2): Application fee is £819 (as of 2026). You must also pay the healthcare surcharge for each year of your stay.. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Minister of Religion visa (T2) processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically 3 weeks for applications from outside the UK..
How long can I stay on the Minister of Religion visa (T2)?+
Up to 3 years and 1 month (or the time on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter); extendable, with a path to settlement after 5 years.
Can I work on the Minister of Religion visa (T2)?+
You can work full-time for your sponsor. You may also take a second job (up to 20 hours per week) in the same profession or a shortage occupation, or engage in voluntary work. Dependants have full work rights.
Does Minister of Religion visa (T2) lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom?+
This route allows you to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK.
What are common mistakes with Minister of Religion visa (T2)?+
Applying more than 3 months before the job start date Failing to meet the 28-day financial holding period for savings Providing an expired or invalid Certificate of Sponsorship