Business Immigration
The UK’s business immigration system enables employers to recruit talent from around the world and helps skilled professionals build their careers in the UK.
Business Immigration
The UK’s business immigration system enables employers to recruit talent from around the world and helps skilled professionals build their careers in the UK. Navigating the rules can be complex, but with the right guidance, businesses and individuals can achieve their goals efficiently and compliantly.
What Is a Sponsor Licence?
A Sponsor Licence is official permission granted by the Home Office to UK employers, allowing them to sponsor and employ non-UK nationals under the Skilled Worker and other work visa routes. Without a sponsor licence, businesses cannot legally employ most overseas workers.
Who Needs a Sponsor Licence?
Any UK business or organisation wishing to employ skilled workers from outside the UK (including EU nationals who arrived after 31 December 2020) must hold a valid sponsor licence.
The Application Process
- Eligibility Check:
The business must be genuine, operating legally in the UK, and able to meet compliance duties. - Appoint Key Personnel:
Assign roles such as Authorising Officer, Key Contact, and Level 1 User to manage the licence. - Prepare Documents:
Submit supporting documents to prove trading status, registration, and HR systems. - Online Application:
Complete the Home Office application form and pay the relevant fee. - Compliance Visit:
The Home Office may visit your premises to check systems and processes. - Decision:
Most applications are decided within 8 weeks, with priority services available.
Sponsor Duties and Compliance
Holding a sponsor licence comes with ongoing responsibilities, including:
- Keeping accurate records of sponsored workers
- Reporting changes (e.g., if a worker leaves or changes role)
- Ensuring sponsored workers have the right to work
- Cooperating with Home Office audits
Failure to comply can result in suspension or revocation of the licence.
Example Scenario:
A growing tech company wants to hire a software developer from India. They apply for a sponsor licence, set up robust HR systems, and successfully sponsor the candidate, helping their business expand and innovate.
Types of Sponsor Licences
Worker Licence
For long-term employment, including Skilled Worker and Senior or Specialist Worker visas.
Temporary Worker Licence
For short-term or temporary roles, such as charity workers, creative workers, or seasonal workers.
How We Can Help
- Assessing your eligibility and preparing your application
- Advising on HR and compliance systems
- Training your staff on sponsor duties
- Supporting you through Home Office audits and renewals
- Assisting with licence management and reporting
What Is a Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa is the main route for non-UK nationals to work in the UK in a skilled role. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa and is open to applicants with a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
The Application Process
- Receive a Job Offer:
The employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship. - Prepare Documents:
Passport, proof of English, financial evidence (if required), and tuberculosis test results (for some countries). - Apply Online:
Complete the visa application, pay the fee, and the Immigration Health Surcharge. - Biometrics Appointment:
Provide fingerprints and a photo at a visa centre. - Decision:
Most applications are decided within 3 weeks (outside the UK) or 8 weeks (inside the UK).
Rights and Benefits
- Live and work in the UK for up to 5 years (renewable)
- Bring eligible family members (dependants)
- Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years
- Access to the NHS (after paying the health surcharge)
Example Scenario:
A healthcare provider in the UK needs to fill a nursing vacancy. They sponsor a qualified nurse from overseas, who meets the skill and salary requirements. The nurse applies for and receives a Skilled Worker Visa, allowing them to relocate and work in the UK.
Common Challenges
- Meeting the salary or skill threshold
- Delays in obtaining a sponsor licence
- Understanding compliance and reporting duties
- Navigating changes in immigration rules
Key Requirements
- Job Offer:
You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence. - Skill Level:
The job must be at RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or above. - Salary Threshold:
The job must pay at least the minimum salary set by the Home Office (usually £26,200 per year or the “going rate” for the role, whichever is higher). - English Language:
You must meet the English language requirement.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):
Your employer will issue a unique reference number for your application.
How We Can Help
- Advising employers on the sponsorship process and compliance
- Supporting skilled workers with their visa applications
- Troubleshooting refusals or complex cases
- Providing ongoing support for renewals and family applications
Engagement: Supporting Your Business and Career
Whether you are an employer seeking to attract global talent or a skilled professional looking to build your future in the UK, we are here to help. Our team provides clear, practical advice and end-to-end support for all aspects of business immigration.
