If you’re a UK employer looking to hire talent from overseas, you’ll need a UK Sponsorship Licence. But what exactly is it, and how do you get one? Let’s break it down in a simple and conversational way.
What Is a UK Sponsorship Licence?
A UK Sponsorship Licence is official permission granted by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that allows businesses to hire foreign workers. Whether you run a company, a sole proprietorship, or operate as an individual employer, this licence is essential for recruiting non-UK residents.
Once you have the licence, you can issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to foreign workers applying for the following visas:
- UK Skilled Worker visa
- UK Health and Care Worker visa
- UK Global Business Mobility visa
- UK International Agreement visa
In return, sponsors must comply with UK immigration laws and are subject to inspections by the Home Office. Non-compliance can lead to fines or even losing the licence, which directly impacts sponsored employees.
Why Does the UK Have a Sponsorship System?
The UK sponsorship system ensures that immigration remains controlled and fair. It holds employers accountable for their foreign hires, ensuring they:
- Assist workers with visa applications by providing a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Pay foreign employees at least the legal minimum salary.
- Follow strict employment and immigration laws.
However, having a sponsorship licence and issuing a CoS doesn’t guarantee that a visa will be granted. Each applicant must still meet the Home Office’s eligibility criteria.
Who Needs a Sponsorship Licence?
Since Brexit, as of January 1, 2021, even EEA and Swiss citizens need sponsorship to work in the UK. If you plan to hire a foreign worker—whether for long-term employment or even as a charity volunteer—you’ll need a sponsorship licence.
Requirements to Obtain a UK Sponsorship Licence
To apply for a sponsor licence, your business must meet several criteria:
- Legal Registration: Your company must be officially registered and operating in the UK.
- Physical or Virtual Presence: You need to prove that your business operates in the UK, even if you don’t have a physical office.
- Genuine Job Offer: You must have a real vacancy that requires a foreign specialist with relevant skills.
- HR & Compliance System: A robust HR system must be in place to manage recruitment, track employees, and meet sponsorship obligations.
- Clean Record: The company, its directors, and key personnel must not have a history of immigration violations or criminal convictions related to fraud or money laundering.
- Previous Compliance: If you had a licence revoked before, reapplying may be difficult.
The Genuineness Test
The Home Office assesses whether the job you’re offering is legitimate and necessary. To pass this test, your job offer must:
- Be for an occupation on the Shortage Occupation List.
- Match the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
- Be a genuine necessity for your business operations.
Failing to prove these factors can result in application rejection or even suspension of an existing licence.
Choosing the Right Sponsorship Licence
There are two main types:
- Worker Licence: For long-term employment, including Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker visas.
- Temporary Worker Licence: For short-term roles like seasonal work, charity, or religious positions.
Employers can apply for one or both types, depending on their hiring needs.
Sponsor Responsibilities
Once you obtain a sponsorship licence, you must:
- Keep up-to-date records of sponsored employees, including visa details and employment contracts.
- Monitor and report employee absences or breaches of visa conditions.
- Notify the Home Office about business changes, such as a change of address or key personnel.
- Ensure all sponsored workers are paid the legal minimum salary for their job category.
Final Thoughts
Hiring foreign workers in the UK is a structured process that requires compliance with immigration laws. A UK Sponsorship Licence is your key to recruiting global talent, but it comes with responsibilities. If you’re planning to sponsor a foreign worker, make sure your business meets the Home Office’s requirements and stays compliant to avoid penalties.
With proper planning, getting a sponsorship licence can be a straightforward process, opening doors to skilled professionals from around the world.
For the latest updates and guidance on UK sponsorship licences, visit the official UK government website or consult with an immigration expert.
