How to Get a Sponsorship License in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

 

How to Get a Sponsorship License in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

The sponsorship license is the gateway for every UK-based employer intending to employ skilled workers from abroad. It grants a business the right to legally sponsor and employ individuals from outside the UK under the UK immigration system. This blog will guide you through the process, requirements, and tips for securing your sponsorship license.

What is a Sponsorship License?

A sponsorship license refers to an approval that is granted by UK Visas and Immigration, allowing an employer to hire certain skilled workers who reside overseas. It forms the basis upon which one can employ talent through the Skilled Worker visa and any other visa categories.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, your business must satisfy the following requirements:

Legitimate Business Operations: Your company must be legally operating in the UK with relevant registration, such as at Companies House.

No History of Immigration Violations: Businesses with a history of non-compliance with UK immigration laws may face difficulties.

Proof of Need for Overseas Workers: Demonstrate that your need for skilled workers cannot be met within the UK.

HR Systems in Place: Your company must have HR processes to manage sponsored employees and comply with immigration rules.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Determine Your Sponsorship Tier

The type of license required is based on the roles you want to sponsor. The common tiers include:

Skilled Worker Visa: For general skilled roles.

Global Business Mobility Visas: For intracompany transfers or business expansion.

2. Sign Up on the UKVI Website

Create an account in the UKVI sponsor management system. This is where you will manage the license and your compliance obligations.

3. Submit Your Application

Online Application: The application for a sponsorship licence should be done online through the UKVI website. Payment of Fee: The fee depends on the size of and type of your business:

Small businesses or charities: £536

Medium or large businesses: £1,476

4. Supporting Documentation-Preparation and Submission

You must show evidence to support your application. Some of the common documents used include:

Proof of business registration, such as VAT registration and/or records from Companies House 

Proof of trading location, such as lease agreements or utility bills

Evidence of HR systems (e.g., employee records, recruitment processes)

5. Pass UKVI Inspection

UKVI may conduct a compliance check to ensure your company can meet sponsorship duties, such as record-keeping and monitoring employee activity.

6. Receive Your Decision

The standard processing time for a sponsorship license application is typically 8 weeks. However, expedited services are available for an additional fee.

Key Responsibilities as a Sponsor

Once you’ve received your license, you’ll need to:

Assign CoS: Award CoS to workers you intend to sponsor.

Record Keeping and Reporting: Keep records concerning all sponsored employees and report changes in employment-for example, if an employee moves into a different role or is let go.

License Renewal: Sponsorship licenses last 4 years; after the expiration date, you have to renew.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Insufficient Documentation: This always verifies that all necessary documents are correct and current.

Failure to Comply with Sponsor Duties: Invest in good HR systems to ensure compliance. 

Underestimation of Timeframes: Allow plenty of time for the process, considering timescales for processing and potential delays. 

How ICS Legal Can Help

The sponsorship licence application process can be daunting. At ICS Legal, we have expertise in making the process easier for businesses like yours. Our team offers:

Professional advice on document preparation

Assistance with compliance and HR systems

Ongoing license management support

For more information about our services in putting your application through and making things smoother, visit: Apply for a Sponsor Licence.

Conclusion

Acquiring a sponsorship license in the United Kingdom is a clever step for all businesses that try to expand their talent pool worldwide. Knowing requirements and responsibilities will help you be prepared for licensing, and consulting professionals when in doubt will make the task easier. Be ready to initiate your journey!