UK Esports Visa Requirements

As described by the British Esports Association, “e-sports (or electronic sports) is the term used to describe competitive video gaming”, usually in tournaments with hefty cash prizes as an individual or as part of a competitive team. With the rise in popularity in Esports and Esport tournaments becoming exponential, it is important to note that an Esports gamer is classified as an entertainer, rather than a sportsperson under the UKVI’s Tier 5 Creative & Sporting visa rules. Thus, in order to compete in the UK, Esports gamers must have a formal invitation to the UK, as well as a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by a Grade A accredited sponsor with the Home Office.

As described by the British Esports Association, “e-sports (or electronic sports) is the term used to describe competitive video gaming”, usually in tournaments with hefty cash prizes as an individual or as part of a competitive team. With the rise in popularity in Esports and Esport tournaments becoming exponential, it is important to note that an Esports gamer is classified as an entertainer, rather than a sportsperson under the UKVI’s Tier 5 Creative & Sporting visa rules. Thus, in order to compete in the UK, Esports gamers must have a formal invitation to the UK, as well as a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by a Grade A accredited sponsor with the Home Office.

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