All employees must prove their eligibility to live and work in the UK before starting work with Queen’s. Those applying for a visa from inside the UK must submit their new application online before their existing visa expires. Failure to do so will jeopordise their right to work in the UK.

If you are offered a job you will be advised, upon receipt of your appointment pack, what documentation you are required to provide as proof of your eligibility to live and work in the UK. You can also check if you need a visa on the government services website.

With the end of free movement for EU/EEA/Swiss nationals from 1 January 2021, the UK’s new immigration system will apply equally to all new arrivals. If you or your close family member are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and started living in the UK by 31 December 2020, you may be able to access the free EU Settlement Scheme and apply by 30 June 2021. Otherwise you need a visa to work in the UK. Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme.

The Global Talent Visa (GTV) is intended to make it easier for those coming to a research or academic role in the UK to obtain a visa. It is recommended that you check your eligibility for each of the four routes under GTV before applying for a visa. More detail can be found in the Global Talent Visa section below. Where this route is not available the University can sponsor eligible roles under the Skilled Worker visa.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) controls immigration to the UK from and hold sole discretion over an individual’s UK visa application. There are a range of visa types which permit work in the UK. For comprehensive information on the respective visa categories and processes, and to find out what type of visa you require, please refer to the guidance and information provided on the UKVI website.

Please bear in mind that the burden of proof lies with the applicant. To avoid disappointments or delays to your visa application, we urge incoming international staff to familiarise themselves with the documents required, processing times and costs involved.

NOTE: Northern Ireland forms part of the United Kingdom. Separate visa requirements apply for travel in the Republic of Ireland. As there is no physical border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland you will not pass through UK immigration control if arriving to Belfast through Dublin. As such, your passport will not be endorsed with a UK entry stamp. This may affect your ability at a later date to evidence your date of entry to the UK (e.g. if applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)).