To sponsor skilled worker visa applications in the United Kingdom, an employer must hold a valid sponsor licence issued by the Home Office and offer an eligible job that meets skill and salary thresholds.
The Skilled Worker visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa and is the primary route for hiring overseas professionals in the UK.
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What Does It Mean to Sponsor Skilled Worker Visa?
When an employer sponsors a Skilled Worker visa, they assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to a foreign worker, confirming a genuine job offer that meets immigration requirements.
The worker then applies for the visa using the assigned CoS reference number.
Employer Requirements
To sponsor skilled worker visa applicants, UK employers must:
- Hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence
- Offer a genuine role at the required skill level
- Pay at least the minimum salary threshold or the “going rate” for the occupation
- Assign a valid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Comply with record-keeping and reporting duties
Failure to meet compliance obligations may result in licence suspension or revocation.
Employee Eligibility Requirements
Applicants sponsored under the Skilled Worker route must:
- Have a confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor
- Meet English language requirements
- Meet the salary threshold (general or occupation-specific)
- Score required immigration points
- Provide proof of identity and background checks
Some healthcare and education roles may have specific requirements.
Salary Thresholds
To sponsor skilled worker visa applicants, employers must generally meet:
- The general salary threshold set by the Home Office
- The “going rate” for the specific occupation code
Lower thresholds may apply for shortage occupations or new entrants.
Application Process
- Step 1: Employer obtains sponsor licence
- Step 2: Employer assigns Certificate of Sponsorship
- Step 3: Worker submits Skilled Worker visa application
- Step 4: Provide biometrics and documentation
- Step 5: Await UKVI decision
Processing times vary depending on application location.
Duration and Extensions
The Skilled Worker visa can be granted for up to five years. Extensions are possible if eligibility continues to be met.
Pathway to Settlement
After five years of continuous lawful residence under the Skilled Worker visa, applicants may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), subject to eligibility criteria.
Costs Involved
- Sponsor licence application fee
- Certificate of Sponsorship fee
- Immigration Skills Charge
- Visa application fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge (unless exempt)
Certain healthcare roles may qualify for reduced fees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect occupation code selection
- Failing to meet salary requirements
- Non-compliance with sponsor reporting duties
- Submitting incomplete documentation
Accurate preparation reduces refusal risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any company sponsor skilled worker visa?
No. Only employers with a valid sponsor licence can issue Certificates of Sponsorship.
Does sponsorship guarantee visa approval?
No. The applicant must independently meet immigration eligibility criteria.
Can family members accompany the sponsored worker?
Yes. Eligible dependants may apply under Skilled Worker dependent rules.
Final Thoughts
To sponsor skilled worker visa applications successfully, employers must meet licensing, salary, and compliance requirements. Workers must meet skill and language standards. Understanding both employer and applicant responsibilities is essential for approval.