Work in the UK Under Treaty-Based International Agreements
International Agreement Visa (Temporary Work) – For Workers Under Global Contracts
Comprehensive Legal Support from London’s Leading Solicitors
The International Agreement Visa (a category of the UK’s Temporary Work visa) allows overseas nationals to work in the UK under treaty-based international obligations. Whether you’re employed by a foreign government, posted as a contractual service supplier, or part of a diplomatic mission, this visa provides a lawful and structured route for short- to medium-term work in the UK.
At Right Law Solicitors, we help individuals and organisations navigate this complex visa route with clarity, accuracy, and full legal compliance. We act for foreign embassies, international corporations, NGOs, and legal professionals involved in global service agreements.
What Is the International Agreement Visa?
This visa allows overseas workers to enter and work in the UK where their employment is governed by an international agreement or provisions recognised by the UK government, including:
- Employees of foreign governments
- Diplomatic household staff
- Workers covered by the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS)
- Contractual service suppliers and independent professionals under UK trade commitments
- Employees of recognised international organisations (e.g. UN, NATO)
The visa can be granted for 6 to 24 months, depending on the role. It is not a direct route to ILR, but may allow switching to long-term visas.
Who Can Apply?
- Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK sponsor
- Be working under an international agreement or treaty (e.g. trade or diplomatic agreements)
- Undertake a specific role such as government work, service provision, or diplomatic household support
- Have sufficient funds to support themselves (unless sponsored for maintenance)
- Meet any occupation or experience requirements for their role
We assist in verifying the treaty or agreement under which you are entering and ensuring all Home Office documentation is met.
Types of Workers Covered
- Employees of Overseas Governments – Work for diplomatic missions, consulates, and agencies
- International Organisation Workers – Staff for organisations like the UN, NATO, World Bank
- Contractual Service Suppliers – Deliver services under international trade agreements (e.g. UK-Japan EPA, WTO GATS)
- Independent Professionals – Self-employed professionals under trade agreements
- Private Domestic Workers in Diplomatic Households – Nannies, housekeepers, and drivers employed by accredited diplomats
Key Stages and Timeline
- Treaty Review & Role Validation → 1–3 working days
- Sponsor Coordination & CoS Assignment → 3–7 working days
- Visa Application Preparation → Online application + biometric appointment
- Home Office Decision → 3 weeks (standard) | 5 working days (priority)
- Post-Arrival Support → Extensions, family migration, or switching
How We Help
CoS and Sponsor Support
We liaise with your UK sponsor to ensure compliance with sponsorship rules
Document Preparation
We assist with contracts, treaty references, and support letters
Agreement Eligibility Check
We verify your role falls within a recognised international framework
Dependant Visa Support
We assist with applications for your spouse or children
Our Pricing
| Service | Fixed Fee (Excl. VAT) |
| International Agreement Visa Application | £1,200 |
| CoS & Sponsor Compliance Assistance | £350 |
| Dependant Visa (Spouse/Child) | £750 per applicant |
| Extension or Switch Advice | From £600 |
Initial consultation: £100 (deductible if you proceed)
Home Office fees and IHS surcharge may apply, depending on your exemption status
Why Choose Right Law Solicitors?
- Experts in Treaty-Based Immigration – Trusted by embassies, legal consultants, and global workers
- Sponsor & Treaty Verification Support – We understand the legal obligations involved
- Specialists in Short-Term Work Routes – Tailored service for complex agreements
- Full Application Management – From CoS to biometric enrolment
- Post-Arrival Options – Switching, family joining, and long-term planning