June 28, 2025

How to applying for UK Sponsor Licence

Introduction: This blog serves as a concise guide for Sponsor Licence application guidance. It extensively covers the essentials of Sponsor Licence for UK employers, the application process, associated fees, and vital details crucial for a successful Sponsor Licence application in the UK.

Who Needs a Sponsorship Licence UK? A Sponsorship Licence UK is essential for:

  • UK-based employers intending to bring in or hire foreign employees.
  • Businesses seeking to hire immigrants within the UK.
  • Employers wanting to assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to overseas nationals under various sponsored work visa routes.

How to Apply for Sponsorship Licence UK? This Sponsor Licence application guidance for 2023 highlights key steps:

  1. Thoroughly understand conditions, application format, and other prerequisites to prevent delays.
  2. Complete the online form and submit it along with supporting documents.
  3. Ensure any attached affidavits or declarations are witnessed by a qualified person.
  4. Scan or photograph the submission sheet and supporting documents.
  5. Email the files in JPEG, PDF, or PNG format with descriptive titles to the provided address.

Sponsor Licence Application Fee: The Sponsor Licence application fees vary based on the type of licence:

  • Worker: £536 (small or charitable sponsors) / £1,476 (medium or large sponsors)
  • Temporary Worker: £536 (small or charitable sponsors) / £536 (medium or large sponsors)
  • Worker and Temporary Worker: £536 (small or charitable sponsors) / £1,476 (medium or large sponsors)
  • Additional fees for certain modifications.

Determining Small or Charitable Sponsor Status: To identify whether you are a small or charitable UK Sponsor License, consider factors like turnover, total assets, and employee count.

Points to be Aware of During Application: Apart from meeting eligibility requirements and necessary documents, be mindful of:

  • Demonstrating the genuineness of the company.
  • Proving appropriateness of job roles and salary levels.
  • Assessments of immigration history, criminal background, etc.
  • The importance of submitting comprehensive documents proving the organization’s genuineness.

Sponsorship Licence UK Management Roles: Appoint roles such as Authorising officer, Key Contact, and Level 1 user for overseeing the Sponsorship process through the Sponsorship management system (SMS).

Employer Responsibilities: Understanding and fulfilling Sponsor duties such as checking worker entitlements, complying with immigration laws, and reporting relevant changes to UKVI.

Conclusion: A Sponsorship Licence UK is a mandatory requirement for UK-based employers hiring overseas employees. This guide concludes with a reminder of the duties and responsibilities employers must fulfill towards their company and migrant employees. Stay informed, compliant, and proactive in managing your Sponsor Licence for a successful and lawful employment process.

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