Why Apply for a UK Visa Sponsorship for Employers?
New Regulations Effective Spring 2024:
- Salary threshold will increase to £38,700.
- Apply before Spring 2024 to save £12,500.
- Sponsorship licence valid for four years initially.
What is a UK Visa Sponsorship for Employees? A UK Sponsor Licence allows UK-based companies to legally employ skilled foreign workers who are looking to work in the UK.
Why Apply for a UK Sponsor Licence Now? From Spring 2024, the UK government is increasing the income threshold for foreign workers from £26,200 to £38,700. This measure encourages businesses to invest in local talent and reduces dependency on foreign workers. Additional changes include a higher minimum income requirement for British citizens and settled individuals wishing to bring family members to the UK. These adjustments reinforce self-sufficiency, economic contribution, and responsible immigration policies.
Types of UK Employer Sponsor Licences
- Workers Sponsor Licence (for long-term employment):
- Skilled Worker Visa
- GBM Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (formerly Intra-company Transfer Visa)
- Minister of Religion
- International Sportsperson
- Temporary Workers Sponsor Licence (for short-term employment):
- Scale-up Worker
- Creative Worker
- Charity Worker
- Religious Worker
- Government Authorised Exchange
- International Agreement
- Global Business Mobility
- Graduate Trainee
- Service Supplier
- UK Expansion Worker
- Secondment Worker
- Seasonal Worker
Eligibility Criteria for Businesses Applying for a UK Sponsor Licence
- Must be a legally registered business entity in the UK.
- Must comply with UK immigration laws.
Requirements for UK Sponsor Licence Application:
- Proof of UK business registration.
- Financial statements demonstrating operational capability.
UK Sponsor Licence Validity The UK Sponsor Licence is initially valid for four years and can be renewed. However, non-compliance with sponsorship duties may result in suspension or revocation by the Home Office.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for UK Visa Applicants A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document issued via the Sponsor Management System (SMS) after obtaining a Sponsor Licence. Employers must request a CoS from the Home Office to sponsor a migrant worker. Once approved, the CoS is assigned to the worker, providing a unique reference number essential for the visa application.
Types of CoS:
- Defined Certificates – For Skilled Workers applying from outside the UK.
- Undefined Certificates – For UK Expansion Workers, Skilled Workers inside the UK, and other eligible visa applicants.
Steps to Apply for a UK Sponsorship Licence
- Check eligibility criteria.
- Choose the appropriate Sponsor Licence (long-term or temporary employment).
- Gather required documentation.
- Submit the application online and pay the applicable fees.
- Receive the Sponsor Licence.
UK Sponsorship Licence Fees
Licence Type | Small or Charitable Sponsors | Medium or Large Sponsors |
Worker | £536 | £1,476 |
Temporary Worker | £536 | £536 |
Worker & Temporary Worker | £536 | £1,476 |
Add Worker Licence to Existing Temporary Worker Licence | No Fee | £940 |
Add Temporary Worker Licence to Existing Worker Licence | No Fee | No Fee |
UK Sponsor Licence Processing Time The standard processing time for a UK Sponsor Licence application is approximately 8 weeks. During this period, the Home Office may conduct a compliance visit to assess adherence to sponsorship obligations.
UK Sponsor Licence Ratings
- A-Rating – Given to trusted businesses with robust compliance systems.
- B-Rating – Assigned to businesses that fail to meet sponsorship duties.
How EKASO – TAKA Immigration Law Consultants Pvt Ltd Can Help
- Expert Compliance & Legal Support: Our immigration specialists ensure your application adheres to the latest UK immigration laws.
- Personalized Solutions: Tailored guidance to meet your specific business needs and objectives.
- Comprehensive Support: Assistance from documentation to application submission for a hassle-free process.
- Strategic Approach: Custom strategies designed to enhance your chances of obtaining a Sponsor Licence.
- Transparent Process: Clear communication and ethical handling of your application at every step.
Contact EKASO – TAKA Immigration Law Consultants Pvt Ltd today to get started on your UK Sponsor Licence application!