The Tier 2 visa sponsor list refers to the official register of UK employers licensed to sponsor overseas workers under the former Tier 2 (General) visa route, now replaced by the Skilled Worker visa. Although the immigration system has changed names, many job seekers still search for the Tier 2 visa sponsor list when looking for UK companies that can legally offer work visa sponsorship.
This guide explains what the Tier 2 sponsor list is, who can use it, eligibility requirements, employer obligations, how to search the list, costs involved, common mistakes, and frequently asked questions.
Contents
What Is the Tier 2 Visa Sponsor List?
The Tier 2 visa sponsor list is the public Register of Licensed Sponsors published by the UK government. It contains the names of employers approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to sponsor foreign nationals under work visa routes.
Employers on this list can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to eligible candidates applying under:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Health and Care Worker visa
- Global Business Mobility routes
- Minister of Religion visa
- International Sportsperson visa
If a company is not listed, it cannot legally sponsor a worker under these routes.
Who Should Use the Tier 2 Visa Sponsor List?
International Job Seekers
- Professionals applying from outside the UK
- Graduates switching from Student visas
- Healthcare workers seeking NHS roles
- Skilled workers in IT, engineering, finance, and construction
UK Employers
- Businesses verifying sponsorship status
- HR teams reviewing compliance requirements
- Companies preparing to apply for a sponsor licence
The sponsor list is a key resource for anyone navigating UK employer-sponsored immigration.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsored Workers
Being hired by a company on the Tier 2 visa sponsor list does not automatically guarantee visa approval. Applicants must meet Skilled Worker visa requirements.
- Valid job offer from a licensed sponsor
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Eligible occupation code
- Salary meeting required threshold
- English language proficiency
- Financial maintenance evidence where required
Salary thresholds vary depending on occupation and current immigration rules.
Employer Requirements to Appear on the Sponsor List
To be included on the Tier 2 visa sponsor list, a business must obtain a sponsor licence from UKVI.
- Be a genuine and legally operating UK business
- Demonstrate a legitimate vacancy
- Implement effective HR systems
- Appoint key personnel for licence management
- Comply with immigration and employment laws
UKVI may conduct audits to ensure ongoing compliance.
How to Check the Tier 2 Visa Sponsor List
The Register of Licensed Sponsors is available as a downloadable spreadsheet on the UK government website.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Download the latest sponsor register file
- Search by company name using the filter function
- Verify the licence type
- Confirm the sponsor status is active
- Check which visa routes the employer is licensed for
The list includes the company name, location, and type of licence held.
Types of Sponsor Licences on the List
Worker Licence
- Skilled Worker
- Health and Care Worker
- Global Business Mobility
Temporary Worker Licence
- Creative Worker
- Charity Worker
- Religious Worker
- Government Authorised Exchange
- Seasonal Worker
Some employers hold both Worker and Temporary Worker licences.
Costs Associated With UK Sponsorship
Employer Costs
- Sponsor licence application fee
- Certificate of Sponsorship fee
- Immigration Skills Charge
- Legal and compliance expenses
Employee Costs
- Visa application fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- Biometric enrolment fee
- English language testing
Employers are not permitted to pass certain mandatory sponsorship costs to employees.
Common Mistakes When Using the Sponsor List
- Assuming every listed employer is actively hiring
- Failing to confirm licence status
- Applying for ineligible occupation codes
- Ignoring updated salary thresholds
- Using outdated versions of the sponsor register
The sponsor list confirms licence status but does not guarantee job availability.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Sponsored
- Target shortage occupation roles
- Focus on healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction sectors
- Tailor your CV to UK standards
- Highlight specialized certifications
- Apply directly to licensed sponsors
Healthcare employers and NHS trusts remain among the most active sponsors under the Skilled Worker route.
FAQs About the Tier 2 Visa Sponsor List
Is Tier 2 still available?
No. Tier 2 (General) has been replaced by the Skilled Worker visa, but the sponsor list structure remains similar.
How often is the sponsor list updated?
The UK government updates the register regularly to reflect new licences, suspensions, and revocations.
Can I apply for a visa without a sponsor?
No. A valid job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer are required.
Can a sponsor licence be revoked?
Yes. Employers that fail to meet compliance duties may lose their licence.
Does being on the list guarantee visa approval?
No. Applicants must still meet all Skilled Worker visa eligibility criteria.
Final Thoughts
The Tier 2 visa sponsor list, now known as the Register of Licensed Sponsors, is an essential tool for foreign professionals seeking UK work visa sponsorship. It provides verified information about employers authorized to sponsor overseas workers.
For job seekers, targeting licensed sponsors and ensuring eligibility under Skilled Worker rules significantly improves success rates. For employers, maintaining compliance is critical to remaining on the sponsor register and continuing to access international talent.