The Complete Guide to UK Sponsorship Licence for Employers

The Complete Guide to UK Sponsorship Licence for Employers

Hiring overseas talent is a powerful way to grow your business but to do it legally in the UK, you need a Sponsor Licence. This licence allows your company to employ skilled workers from outside the UK and issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) under the Skilled Worker Visa route.

What Is a Sponsorship Licence?

A Sponsorship Licence is official permission from the UK Home Office that enables a business to sponsor non-UK residents for work in the UK. Without it, your business cannot legally hire or extend employment to overseas workers.

Why It’s Important

  • Enables your company to hire skilled professionals globally
  • Boosts competitiveness by accessing worldwide talent
  • Builds credibility with immigration and business authorities

Types of Sponsorship Licences

  • 1. Worker Licence – for long-term employment (Skilled Worker, Senior or Specialist Worker).
  • 2. Temporary Worker Licence – for short-term or seasonal staff.

Eligibility Criteria for Businesses

To qualify, your business must:

  • Be a genuine and legally operating UK entity.
  • Have HR systems capable of monitoring sponsored employees.
  • Have no unspent immigration or fraud convictions.

How to Apply

  • 1. Prepare company documents (registration certificate, VAT, bank letter).
  • 2. Apply online via the UKVI portal
  • 3. Pay the fee (£536 for small businesses, £1,476 for large organisations).
  • 4. Await a Home Office inspection (if applicable).

Once approved, you’ll receive an A-rated licence valid for four years.

Final Thoughts

A Sponsorship Licence is your gateway to international recruitment. At Startitup Global, we help UK companies prepare documentation, file the application, and maintain compliance ensuring smooth approval.

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