Evaluating Your Sponsorship License Application

• To obtain a sponsor licence as an employer in the United Kingdom, certain eligibility criteria must be met. It is imperative to understand that these criteria are designed to uphold the integrity of the UK’s immigration system and ensure that employers comply with the law. To qualify for a sponsor licence, the following conditions must be satisfied:
• Authenticity of Your Organisation: To be considered for a sponsorship license, it’s essential to confirm that your organization operates legitimately within the UK. You’ll need to present specific documents listed in Appendix A of the sponsor guidance. If your application is for the UK Expansion Worker route, you should not be actively trading in the UK yet but must show a business presence, as detailed in section GBM3.
• Integrity and Reliability: Your reputation matters. We will assess whether you are trustworthy, based on your history, the background of your organization, and the conduct of key personnel and individuals involved in your organization’s management. Your past actions should demonstrate good conduct and align with the public interest.
• Capability to Fulfil Duties: We must be convinced of your ability to adhere to your sponsor duties and to show compliance within the specified timeframes, as laid out in section C1 of Part 3. This involves evaluating your human resources and recruitment procedures to ensure you can meet your responsibilities as a sponsor. This may include a pre-licence compliance visit.
• Meeting Route-Specific Requirements: Depending on the specific visa route you’re applying under, such as the Skilled Worker, Scale-up, or one of the Global Business Mobility routes, you must provide jobs that meet the required skill level and salary thresholds. Each route has its criteria that your organization must fulfil to qualify for a sponsorship license.
• Absence of Unspent Criminal Convictions: One of the foundational prerequisites is that the applying employer must not possess unspent criminal convictions related to immigration offenses or specific other criminal activities. These offenses encompass a range of activities, including but not limited to fraud and money laundering. Unspent criminal convictions signify that a period of time has not yet passed since the conviction, and the individual remains subject to its legal consequences.
• Non-Revocation of a Sponsor Licence in the Last 12 Months: Another crucial aspect of eligibility is that the employer should not have had a sponsor licence revoked within the preceding 12 months. The revocation of a sponsor licence is a serious matter and typically occurs due to violations of sponsorship obligations or breaches of immigration regulations. Maintaining a clean record in this regard is pivotal to securing a new sponsor licence.
• In addition to meeting these fundamental criteria, prospective sponsors are also expected to have appropriate systems in place to effectively monitor sponsored workers and manage sponsorship within their business operations. Compliance with these systems is integral to ensuring that sponsored individuals remain within the bounds of their visa conditions and immigration laws.
• Potential On-site Visit by UKVI: The application process for a sponsor licence entails a comprehensive review by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). This review encompasses scrutiny of the application form and supporting documents provided by the employer. Furthermore, UKVI may conduct on-site visits to the employer’s business premises to assess the trustworthiness and competence of the applicant in fulfilling their sponsorship responsibilities.
• In conclusion, eligibility for a sponsor licence in the UK demands authenticity of organization, integrity and reliability, capability to fulfil required duties, meeting route-specific and other documentational requirements, a clean record in terms of criminal convictions related to immigration offenses and previous sponsor licence revocations within the last 12 months. Additionally, it necessitates the establishment of robust systems for monitoring sponsored workers and effective sponsorship management within the business. The scrutiny and assessment conducted by UKVI during the application process aim to ensure that only credible and responsible entities are granted the privilege of sponsoring individuals for employment in the UK.

To obtain professional, most up-to-date, and accurate advice on your visa application you can contact our experienced, and accredited team of immigration consultants on 020 3911 1115 or send us your query using this form or email us on info@immigrationvisaexpert.com or request a call back by providing your contact details here and we will get back to you asap.

• Understanding the complexities of the UK’s visa sponsorship system is a vital task for employers who are looking to hire from overseas. The system is divided into two main paths, depending on the nature of the job and the duration of employment. These paths are broadly categorized as ‘Workers’ for skilled or long-term roles, and ‘Temporary Workers’ for specific, short-term positions. Employers have the flexibility to apply for a license that suits either one or both of these categories.

The Versatile Worker License: From Catering to Skilled and For Long-Term Roles

• The Worker License is a gateway for employers to sponsor individuals in a variety of skilled jobs. The beauty of this license lies in its versatility – it accommodates roles that might be short-term, long-term, or even permanent, depending on the visa type of the worker. Within this license, there are several distinct streams. For instance, the Skilled Worker stream is tailored for roles that meet certain job suitability criteria. Then there’s the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa, part of the Global Business Mobility scheme, which is perfect for multinational companies needing to transfer established employees to the UK. This category has evolved from the previous Intra-company Transfer visa. Additionally, the Worker License includes specific provisions for Ministers of Religion and International Sportspersons, catering to religious organizations and elite sports professionals respectively.

The Focused Temporary Worker License: A Pathway for Short-Term Employment

• On the other side of the spectrum is the Temporary Worker License. This license is more focused and is applicable for certain types of temporary employment, often involving roles like volunteering and job-shadowing. Under this umbrella, there are various interesting categories. For example, the Scale-up Worker category is designed for individuals working in rapidly growing UK businesses. Then there’s the Creative Worker category, which is a boon for those in the creative industry, such as artists and entertainers, allowing them to work in the UK for up to two years. The license also caters to Charity Workers, Religious Workers, and those involved in Government Authorized Exchanges, which includes work experience and research projects. Other notable categories include the International Agreement for jobs governed by international law, the Graduate Trainee for those in training programs at UK branches, and the Service Supplier for contract-based service providers. The UK Expansion Worker and Secondment Worker categories, both part of the Global Business Mobility scheme, are tailored for employees setting up new branches or subsidiaries in the UK or those transferring to work for a different UK business under a high-value contract. Lastly, the Seasonal Worker category allows individuals to work in sectors like horticulture or poultry during specific periods.

Special Considerations for Seasonal and Scale-up Workers

• It’s important to note that while the Seasonal Worker visa category previously included pork butchery workers, this is no longer the case, as new applications for this sub-category are not being accepted. For employers sponsoring Scale-up Workers, there’s a unique set of responsibilities. These responsibilities end six months after the worker has been granted permission to enter or stay in the UK. After this period, Scale-up Workers have several options. They can continue working for the same employer without needing a new certificate of sponsorship, or they can change jobs without requiring a new sponsor, until their visa expires.

The Importance of Compliance and Informed Decision-Making

• This narrative provides a basic understanding for employers looking to navigate the UK’s visa sponsorship system. Each category has its specific requirements and conditions, emphasizing the need for employers to be well-informed and compliant with the latest immigration laws and regulations

Sponsorship Management Roles in UK Visa Sponsorship:

• When applying for a sponsorship license in the UK, it’s crucial for businesses to designate specific individuals within their organization to oversee the sponsorship process. These roles are pivotal in ensuring compliance with immigration regulations and maintaining a smooth sponsorship process. When applying for a sponsor licence, they will rely heavily on primary tool, called the Sponsorship Management System (SMS), a digital platform that facilitates the management of your sponsorship duties. This is a key step in ensuring compliance and smooth operation of the sponsorship system.

Who Does What in Visa Sponsorship Management?

• The Person in Charge – Authorising Officer: This role is occupied by a senior and competent individual within your organization who knows the business well and can make important decisions. The Authorising Officer holds a critical responsibility—they are accountable for the actions taken by the staff and representatives who utilize the Sponsorship Management System (SMS). This individual acts as the ultimate authority, ensuring that all actions within the SMS align with the organization’s obligations and adhere to immigration laws.

• Your Main Contact with UK Immigration Office – Key Contact: The Key Contact serves as the primary liaison between your organization and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Office. They’re like a messenger or an ambassador. This role involves facilitating communication, addressing inquiries, and providing essential information to UKVI as necessary and make sure that the business knows about any new rules or changes in the visa process. They need to be good at effective coordination and communication as it’s pivotal in maintaining a positive relationship with the immigration authorities.

• The Everyday Manager – Level 1 User: This role is all about the daily tasks. The Level 1 User plays a central role in the day-to-day management of your sponsor licence using the SMS. They are responsible for handling various tasks related to the sponsorship process, which includes assigning and managing certificates of sponsorship, keeping track of their details, monitoring compliance, reporting changes or updates, and making sure everything is up to date. This role necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the SMS and immigration regulations. Overall, they’re like the manager who keeps the team running smoothly every day.

• It’s worth noting that these roles can be occupied by the same person, especially in smaller sized organizations or distinct individuals within the organization could take up each role separately, depending on your organizational structure and resources. The flexibility allows you to adapt the roles to suit your specific needs and requirements.
• The Support Role: Level 2 User: Once the business gets its license to sponsor employees, there’s an option to bring in a Level 2 User. This role is a bit like a support or assistant role. The Level 2 User helps out with the SMS, but they can’t do everything a Level 1 User can. For example, they can’t cancel a sponsorship certificate. This level of limited access control is in place with two-fold reasons to ensure they’re there to help with the workload, especially the routine stuff, but at the same time it ensures that big decisions, major tasks, and sensitive sponsorship function remain under the oversight of trusted and authorized personnel with more authority.
• The allocation of sponsorship management roles within your organization is a fundamental aspect of the UK visa sponsorship process and it’s like running a small, specialized team within your business dedicated to this important task. You’ve got the Authorising Officer steering the ship, the Key Contact ensuring messages are passed between your business and the authorities, and the Level 1 and Level 2 Users handling the day-to-day tasks and support work. By assigning the right people to these roles, a business can make sure that its sponsorship journey is efficient, compliant, and successful. It’s all about having the right people in the right roles, working together to navigate the complexities of visa sponsorship.

Visa processing time taken to complete the visa application process:

• If these responsibilities are not met, actions will be taken to ensure compliance. It’s important to engage with the detailed guidance on sponsor duties to fully understand and adhere to these obligations. If you’re unsure about any aspect of your sponsorship duties, it is wise to seek advice from professional consultants to maintain compliance and support the system’s integrity.

Employer’s Responsibilities as a Sponsor License Holder

• When you become a licensed sponsor in the UK, you’re taking on a crucial role that carries significant responsibilities. To secure and maintain a sponsorship license in the UK, it is essential to recognize that the privilege of sponsorship carries with it a responsibility to protect the immigration system’s integrity. Employers benefitting from global talent must ensure their practices do not undermine immigration controls and are in full compliance with all UK laws, including those safeguarding the public’s welfare. As a sponsor, you are trusted to only employ overseas workers who are eligible and to follow all relevant laws, including those related to employment, preventing unlawful work, and protecting minors.
• Securing Your Sponsorship License: Embracing Responsibilities: Sponsorship is grounded in two fundamental principles. Firstly, to secure and maintain a sponsorship license in the UK, it is essential to recognize that the privilege of sponsorship carries with it a responsibility to protect the immigration system’s integrity and adherence to all UK laws, ensuring behaviour aligns with the public interest. Secondly, sponsorship is predicated on the premise that non-UK nationals who seek work in the country meet eligibility criteria and that the sponsor is a reputable employer committed to legitimately hiring and sponsoring them.
• The Weight of Trust: Upon receiving a sponsorship license, you are entrusted with a duty to comply with all aspects of the UK’s immigration and employment laws. This includes ensuring fair wages, observing working hour limits, maintaining health and safety standards, respecting workers’ union rights, and preventing illegal employment practices.
• Maintaining Compliance: The role of a sponsor is not just to employ but to ensure that all regulations are met continuously. The government diligently oversees sponsors to ensure these standards are upheld. Should sponsors fail to meet their obligations, they risk compliance actions. Therefore, sponsors must be proactive in understanding and fulfilling these obligations to both obtain and retain their sponsorship license.all visa processing time for the ‘Leader in Digital Technology – Global Talent Visa’ category varies depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the application and the time of year. However, as a general rule, applications from outside the UK are processed more quickly than applications from within the UK.

When Applied from Outside the UK:

• The average processing time for ‘Leader in Digital Technology – Global Talent Visa’ applications made from outside the UK is 3 weeks or 15 working days

When Applied from Within the UK:

• If you are already in the UK under a different visa category and wish to switch to the ‘Leader in Digital Technology – Global Talent Visa’, processing times can vary. Typically, it is advisable to apply for the visa well in advance of the expiration of your current visa to avoid any gaps in your legal status. The average processing time for ‘Leader in Digital Technology – Global Talent Visa’ applications from within the UK is up to 8 weeks.

   

Please note that these processing times are indicative, and it could be varied or take longer than standard applicable time depending on individual circumstances or due to some reasons i.e., missing documents, you may be asked to appear for interview, your criminal conviction, or they need more time to verify your documents.

A-Rating: Full Sponsor License:

• When your application for a sponsor license is approved, you receive an A-rated license. This coveted A-rating signifies that your organization is authorized to begin assigning Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS). These certificates are essential for bringing skilled individuals into the UK to work for your business.
• Furthermore, your organization is proudly listed in the register of sponsors, which provides transparent information to individuals seeking employment opportunities with UK sponsors. This recognition can be a valuable asset in attracting top-tier talent to your organization.

Provisional Rating for UK Expansion Worker Sponsorship:

• If your intention is to sponsor a UK Expansion Worker, it’s important to note that you will receive a ‘provisional’ rating instead of an A-rating if your authorizing officer is based outside the UK. Under this provisional rating, you will be able to assign only one certificate of sponsorship, which must be designated to the authorizing officer. This certificate allows them to enter the UK for their role.
• Once the authorizing officer has successfully obtained their visa and arrived in the UK, you can take steps to upgrade your license to the coveted A-rating. This upgrade enables you to request additional certificates of sponsorship using the Sponsorship Management System (SMS), expanding your capacity to bring in skilled workers.

B-Rating: A Cautionary Downgrade:

• It’s important to maintain the integrity of your A-rated license by diligently fulfilling your sponsor responsibilities. Failure to do so may result in the downgrading of your license to a B-rating at a later stage.
• A B-rating serves as a cautionary measure, signalling that improvements are needed to meet sponsor obligations effectively.
• During a B-rating phase, you will not be able to issue new certificates of sponsorship until necessary improvements are made, and your license is upgraded back to an A-rating. However, you can continue to issue certificates to workers already employed who wish to extend their permission to stay in the UK.

The Road to an A-Rating Upgrade:

• To regain your coveted A-rating, you must follow an ‘action plan’ provided by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
• There is a fee of £1,476 associated with this action plan, which must be paid within 10 working days of being informed about the downgrade. Failing to pay this fee promptly may result in the loss of your license.
• Upon successful completion of the action plan and addressing all necessary improvements, your license will be upgraded back to an A-rating. However, failing to complete the action plan will result in the loss of your license.

Second B-Rating and License Limitations:

• If your organization receives a second B-rating during the validity period of your license, it’s crucial to be aware of the limitations. You can only have two B-ratings within the four years that your license remains valid. If you still need to make improvements after your second action plan, your license will be revoked.

Reapplication After License Revocation:

• In the unfortunate event that your license is revoked, you have the option to reapply. However, there is a waiting period of at least 12 months before you can reapply. It’s important to note that appeals are not an option if your license is revoked, making it imperative to focus on maintaining compliance and promptly addressing any issues to ensure the continued success of your sponsorship endeavours.
• Overall, understanding your sponsor license rating is paramount for effective visa sponsorship in the UK. The A-rating is a testament to your organization’s ability to sponsor skilled workers, while the B-rating serves as a warning to address sponsor responsibilities diligently. By following action plans and adhering to compliance standards, you can maintain or regain your A-rating, ensuring that your organization continues to attract and retain top talent.

Seeking Expert Guidance for Your Sponsor License Application

• Navigating the intricacies of the UK’s sponsor license application process can be a complex and daunting task. That’s where the Immigration Visa Experts at AGCL Services step in to provide invaluable assistance. Our team is dedicated to offering accurate, up-to-date guidance and support to prepare your application with precision.
• With our expertise, you can confidently embark on the journey to become a licensed sponsor, whether you’re aiming for an A-rating, addressing a B-rating, or considering an upgrade. We understand the nuances of the process and are well-equipped to ensure that your application aligns with immigration regulations and meets the highest standards.
• Our commitment is to simplify the application process, demystify the intricacies of sponsor responsibilities, and empower your organization to successfully sponsor skilled workers in the UK. With AGCL Services by your side, you can navigate the complexities of sponsor licensing with confidence and peace of mind.

When embarking on the process of applying for a UK Sponsorship License as an employer, it’s essential to be equipped with the right documentation. The requirements are twofold:

• Route-specific documents tailored to the particular visa route under which you are applying, such as the Skilled Worker or T2 Minister of Religion, and
• General documents that support the business’s legitimacy and operational status. Understanding and compiling these documents is a pivotal step in legitimizing your intent to hire overseas employees and ensuring that your application adheres to the UK’s immigration regulations.

When seeking to become a licensed sponsor in the UK, the documentary evidence you provide is crucial. This evidence varies depending on your organization’s nature and the visa routes you’re applying under. It’s important to note that not all organizations will need to submit the same types of documents.

For Specific Bodies and Government Organisations:

• Government departments and certain public bodies might not need to submit any documents unless route-specific ones are required​​.
• Local authorities are often checked via official UK sites, again potentially negating the need for additional documents unless route-specific ones are required​​.
• Diplomatic missions, recognized international organizations, and companies listed on the London Stock Exchange have unique requirements and might need to provide fewer documents if verifiable online​​.

For Regulated Entities:

• Financial, healthcare, and food businesses must provide evidence of regulatory status, though online checks may often suffice​​
• Charities listed on official registers may be verified online, but if your charity operates under a different name than registered, additional evidence is required​​.

For Route-Specific Applications:

• International Sportsperson visa route requires an endorsement from the approved governing body for your sport​​.
• GBM visa routes require evidence of links to overseas businesses, contracts, and expansion plans​​.
• For the T2 Minister of Religion, details about the religious organization and proof of hierarchy are needed​​.

For Expansion and Overseas Presence:

• Proof of a UK footprint is necessary for all businesses under the UK Expansion Worker route​​.
• Documented evidence of overseas trading activity and plans for UK expansion are mandatory unless specific exceptions apply​​.

Translated Documents: Please ensure any documents that you provide not in English or Welsh are accompanied by a certified translation and be prepared that the UKVI may request additional information to decide on your application.​

How AGCL Services can assist your organization with “Sponsor License Application”

• Please consider that the documents outlined above serve as illustrative examples and provide a general overview of the application process. In specific situations, additional prerequisites and pertinent documents may be necessary to fulfil the requirements for your unique case. It is essential to understand that the application process for a Sponsor License can vary depending on specific circumstances. Therefore, we strongly advise reaching out to our dedicated Sponsor License application team for personalized guidance and support to navigate the intricacies associated with your Sponsor License application.
• Our team of experts possesses an in-depth understanding of immigration laws and regulations. They can offer tailored assistance, ensuring that your application is comprehensive, complete, and in full compliance with the specific requirements of your case. We understand that each immigration case is unique, and our professionals are well-equipped to provide you with the necessary guidance to achieve a successful outcome.
• By seeking assistance from our experienced Sponsor License application team, you can streamline the application process, minimize potential errors, and enhance your chances of securing the sponsorship license you need. We are committed to assisting you every step of the way, addressing your individual concerns, and ensuring that your application is in the best possible shape for approval.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for a personalized consultation to embark on a successful Sponsor License application journey. We are here to assist you in meeting your sponsorship goals, making the process as smooth and efficient as possible while adhering to the stringent requirements of immigration authorities. Your unique case deserves personalized attention, and our experts are dedicated to providing just that.

When preparing to apply for a sponsorship license, here’s a straightforward guide to get you started:

• Before you’re getting ready to apply for a sponsorship license, look over the specific guidelines for the visa routes you’re considering. This helps you understand what you need to do. Pick the visa routes that fit what your business is looking for and decide who in your company will be in charge of the application and who will handle the everyday stuff. If your company has different locations / branches, then think about which ones will have foreign workers and if they need their own license, prepare for the application accordingly. Build an estimate around how many people you’ll sponsor this year because this affects how many Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) you’ll need as this information will require as part of your application. Once you’re ready with all the details and documentation, you will need to make an online application along with all the above necessary information and application fees. Lastly, have all your paperwork ready to go within 5 days after you apply online.

How AGCL Services can help you with Sponsor License Application?

• The Immigration Visa Experts at AGCL services possess the expertise and experience to guide you seamlessly through your sponsor license application. They can clarify the complexities of the process, ensuring that you understand each requirement. With their knowledge, they can help prepare the necessary documentation, provide recommendations for the supporting evidence needed, and assist in drafting the application accurately. Their hands-on support simplifies the process, making it more efficient and increasing the likelihood of a successful application.

Navigating the Sponsor License Application Processing Duration:

• Understanding the timeline for processing a Sponsor License application is crucial when you’re beginning your journey of becoming a licensed sponsor in the UK. The processing duration can vary based on several factors, but here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect.

Standard Processing Duration:

• In most cases, Sponsor License applications are processed within a span of less than 8 weeks. During this time, UK Visas, and Immigration (UKVI) carefully reviews your application, assessing its compliance with immigration regulations and ensuring that your organization is well-prepared to fulfil its responsibilities as a sponsor.

Potential Visit from UKVI:

• it’s important to note that as part of their thorough evaluation process, UKVI may find it necessary to visit your business. This visit is conducted to verify the information provided in your application and to ensure that your organization aligns with the required standards for sponsorship.

Expedited Processing Option:

• If you’re in a situation where time is of the essence and you can’t afford to wait for the standard processing duration, there’s an expedited processing option available. For an additional fee of £500, you have the opportunity to accelerate the decision-making process and potentially receive a decision within 10 working days.

Limitations for Expedited Services:

• It’s important to keep in mind that this expedited service has limitations—it’s available for only a small number of applications every working day. Decisions are allocated in the order that requests arrive, following a “first come, first served” principle. Therefore, if you choose this option, it’s advisable to act promptly to secure your place in the queue for faster processing.
• Overall, comprehending the processing duration for a Sponsor License application is vital for effective planning and meeting your organization’s requirements. While the standard processing duration is typically under 8 weeks, the option of expedited processing is available for those who require a quicker decision. By understanding the choices at your disposal and the associated fees, you can make an informed decision that best suits your organization’s timeline and objectives.

Understanding the Validity of Your Sponsor License:

• When embarking on the journey of obtaining a Sponsor License in the UK, it’s essential to grasp the duration for which your license will remain valid. Here, we explore the key details to ensure you have a clear understanding.

Four-Year Validity Period:

• Upon approval of your Sponsor License application, you will be granted a license that is valid for a period of four years. This four-year span provides your organization with a substantial window of opportunity to engage skilled workers from overseas and meet your workforce needs.

Responsibilities as a Sponsor:

• It’s important to note that the continued validity of your license is contingent upon your ability to fulfil your responsibilities as a sponsor. Failing to meet these obligations may result in the revocation of your license.

Maximum Number of Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS):

• When your license application is approved, you will receive a decision letter outlining various details, including the maximum number of Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) that you are permitted to assign. These CoS are crucial documents used to bring overseas workers into your organization.
• However, it’s essential to be aware that the decision letter may specify that the maximum number of CoS you can assign is zero. This situation may arise if you indicated in your application that you are uncertain about your future need to recruit overseas workers.
• In such cases, your license remains valid, but you will not have an initial allocation of CoS to utilize. This means that if your organization decides to hire overseas workers in the future, you will need to request CoS allocations separately, as per your specific requirements.
• Overall, comprehending the validity and conditions of your Sponsor License is vital for effective workforce planning. Your license remains valid for four years, but it is imperative to consistently meet your responsibilities as a sponsor to ensure its continued validity. Understanding the allocation of Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) is also crucial, as it determines your capacity to bring overseas workers into your organization.

Sponsor License Application Fees:

• When you decide to apply for a Sponsor License in the UK, there are fees associated with the process. The cost will depend on the type of license you need—either for a Worker or Temporary Worker—and the size of your organization.
• For a Worker License, small organizations or charities have to pay £536, while medium to large organizations are charged £1476.
• The Temporary Worker License fee is £536 for all sizes of sponsors.
• If you’re looking to have both Worker and Temporary Worker Licenses, small or charitable sponsors pay £536, and medium to large sponsors pay £1476.
• If you already have a Temporary Worker License and want to add a Worker License, small or charitable sponsors aren’t charged, but medium to large sponsors will need to pay £940.
• Adding a Temporary Worker License to an existing Worker License is free for all organizations.

Criteria to determine if you’re a small or charitable sponsor organisation:

To ascertain whether your organization falls under the category of a Small or charitable sponsor, specific criteria come into play.

• You are typically considered a small sponsor if at least two of the following conditions apply:
• Your annual turnover is £10.2 million or less.
• The total value of your assets amounts to £5.1 million or less.
• Your organization employs 50 individuals or fewer.
• Additionally, you qualify as a charitable sponsor if your organization meets any of the following criteria:
• You are a registered charity in England or Wales.
• You are a registered charity in Scotland.
• You are a registered charity in Northern Ireland, provided you are on the register; if not, you must furnish proof of your charitable status for tax purposes from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
• You are an excepted charity.
• You are an exempt charity.
• You are an ecclesiastical corporation established for charitable purposes
• Understanding these fees and the criteria for Small or charitable sponsor status is essential when applying for a Sponsor License. It ensures that you are prepared for the associated costs and can navigate the application process with confidence.

Please note that all fees and charges are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the UK government website or contact our expert immigration visa team to seek their professional help.

What is the “Immigration Skill Charge” requirement?

• The Immigration Skills Charge is a fee imposed by the UK Home Office on employers who sponsor non-EEA workers (from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland) under certain visa categories, including the Skilled Worker Visa.
• The immigration skills charge ranges from £364 to £1,000 per year, depending on the size of the employer and the job that the non-EEA national is doing.
• The responsibility to pay the Immigration Skills Charge lies with the sponsoring employer, not the individual visa applicant. Employers are required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge upfront each time when issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to a skilled worker. The charge amount varies depending on the size of the sponsoring employer and the duration of the sponsorship.
• It’s important to note that specific details regarding the Immigration Skills Charge may change over time as well as some categories of workers are exempt from paying the Immigration Skills Charge so you may consult our team to seek professional advice for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the charges.

Please note that all fees and charges are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the UK government website or contact our expert immigration visa team to seek their professional help.

Q.1  What is the Immigration Skills Charge, and when is it applicable?

• The Immigration Skills Charge is an additional fee that may be required when you assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to an individual applying for a Skilled Worker or Senior or Specialist Worker visa in the UK. This charge, known as the ‘immigration skills charge,’ is applicable under certain circumstances.

Q.2  When must I pay the Immigration Skills Charge?

• You are required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge when you are sponsoring an individual who is applying for a visa from outside the UK to work in the UK for a duration of 6 months or more. Additionally, the charge applies if the individual is applying for a visa from inside the UK, regardless of the length of their intended stay.

Q.3  Are there any exceptions where the Immigration Skills Charge does not apply?

• Yes, there are exceptions. You do not need to pay the Immigration Skills Charge if you are sponsoring someone with specific occupation codes, such as chemical scientists, biological scientists, physical scientists, and others, as outlined in the immigration rules. Additionally, if you are sponsoring a worker who was assigned a certificate before 6 April 2017, you may not be required to pay the charge.

Q.4  Does the charge apply to the worker’s dependants, such as their partner or child?

• No, the Immigration Skills Charge does not apply to the worker’s dependants, including their partner or child. It is solely applicable to the primary worker.

Q.5  Is there an exception for Immigration Skills Charge if I’m sponsoring someone switching from a UK student visa to a work visa?

• Yes, if you are sponsoring someone who is switching from a UK student visa to either a Skilled Worker or Senior or Specialist Worker visa and then extending their stay on the new visa, you may not be required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge.

Q.6  Are there specific conditions for not paying the charge in the Global Business Mobility Senior or Specialist Worker route?

• Yes, there are specific conditions for exemption in the Global Business Mobility Senior or Specialist Worker route. You may not need to pay the charge if the worker you’re sponsoring meets certain criteria, including being assigned a certificate of sponsorship on or after 1 January 2023, being a national of an EU country or holding a Latvian non-citizen’s passport, and more. These conditions are outlined in detail in the immigration rules.

Q.7  What happens if the person I’m sponsoring changes jobs within my organization?

• If a sponsored worker within your organization changes jobs but remains in your organization, you will need to assign them a new Certificate of Sponsorship if the new job has a different occupation code. The Immigration Skills Charge must be paid for the full length of their visa. If the new Certificate of Sponsorship extends the worker’s visa, an additional charge will be required to cover the extra time.

Q.8  How do I make payment for the Immigration Skills Charge?

• You are required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge when you assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to the worker. The payment process is integrated into the sponsorship assignment procedure, ensuring that the charge is settled as part of the sponsorship application process.

Q.9  Who can apply for a UK Sponsor License?

• Any UK organization that’s legally operating can apply for a Sponsor License, including small businesses, charities, and multinational corporations, provided they meet the eligibility criteria set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Q.10  What types of Sponsor Licenses are available?

• There are two main types: a Worker License for long-term job offers, and a Temporary Worker License for short-term employment. Businesses can apply for one or both depending on their needs.

Q.11  How much does it cost to apply for a Sponsor License?

• Costs vary depending on your business size and the type of license. Small businesses and charities pay £536, while medium and large businesses pay £1476 for a Worker License or a combined Worker and Temporary Worker License. For more information visit ‘Sponsor License Fees’ section.

Q.12  How long does it take to obtain a Sponsor License?

• The standard processing time for a Sponsor License is up to 8 weeks. However, for an additional fee, you can use the priority service to receive a decision within 10 working days.

Q.13  Can a legal representative help with my Sponsor License application?

• Yes, legal experts can guide you through the application process, help gather the necessary documents, and provide valuable advice, but the application must be submitted by the sponsor themselves.

Q14  What happens if I don’t meet my responsibilities as a sponsor?

• Failure to meet your duties could lead to a downgrade from an A-rated to a B-rated license, which restricts your ability to issue new certificates of sponsorship.

Q.15  How can I maintain an A-rated Sponsor License?

• To maintain an A-rated license, comply with all sponsor duties, keep up-to-date records, and follow UKVI’s guidance. Regular audits and staff training can also help.

Q.16  What is the process to upgrade a B-rated license to an A-rated license?

• You must follow an action plan provided by UKVI and pay the associated fee. Failure to complete the action plan will lead to the loss of your license.

Q.17  Can I apply for a Sponsor License if I already employ overseas workers?

• Yes, you can apply for a Sponsor License even if you currently employ overseas workers, but you’ll need to ensure they switch to the sponsorship-based visa once you get the license.

Q.18  Can I sponsor workers for any type of job?

• No, the job must meet the skill level and salary requirements specific to the visa route for which you are licensed to sponsor workers.

Q.19  What is the validity period of a Sponsor License?

• A Sponsor License is typically valid for four years, after which you’ll need to apply for renewal.