The UKVI sponsor list is the official Register of Licensed Sponsors published by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). It contains the names of UK employers that are legally authorised to sponsor foreign nationals under the Skilled Worker and other sponsored visa routes.
If a company is not on the UKVI sponsor list, it cannot issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), and therefore cannot legally sponsor a worker from outside the UK.
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What Is the UKVI Sponsor List?
The UKVI sponsor list is a publicly available database that confirms which organisations hold a valid sponsor licence. The register is updated regularly and includes:
- Company name
- Location
- Type of sponsor licence held
- Visa routes approved for sponsorship
The list is essential for international professionals seeking UK work visa sponsorship.
Visa Routes Covered Under the UKVI Sponsor List
Worker Licence Routes
- Skilled Worker visa
- Health and Care Worker visa
- Global Business Mobility routes
- Minister of Religion visa
- International Sportsperson visa
Temporary Worker Licence Routes
- Creative Worker visa
- Charity Worker visa
- Religious Worker visa
- Government Authorised Exchange visa
- Seasonal Worker visa
Some employers hold both Worker and Temporary Worker licences.
Who Should Use the UKVI Sponsor List?
International Job Seekers
- Applicants seeking Skilled Worker visa sponsorship
- Healthcare professionals applying for NHS roles
- Graduates switching from Student visas
- Professionals 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
For foreign workers, the UKVI sponsor list is a starting point when searching for legitimate sponsorship opportunities.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsored Workers
Being employed by a company on the UKVI sponsor list does not automatically guarantee visa approval. Workers must meet Skilled Worker visa requirements.
- Confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor
- Valid Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Job at required skill level
- Salary meeting minimum threshold
- English language proficiency
- Financial maintenance funds where required
Salary thresholds depend on occupation codes and current UK immigration rules.
Employer Requirements to Be on the UKVI Sponsor List
To appear on the UKVI sponsor list, an employer must:
- Be a genuine and legally operating UK business
- Apply for and obtain a sponsor licence
- Demonstrate legitimate vacancies
- Maintain effective HR systems
- Comply with immigration and employment laws
UKVI may conduct audits before and after granting sponsor approval.
How to Check the UKVI Sponsor List
The UK government publishes the Register of Licensed Sponsors as a downloadable spreadsheet.
Steps to Search the List
- Download the latest sponsor register from the official government website
- Use the search function to find the employer’s name
- Confirm the sponsor licence type
- Verify that the licence status is active
The register does not indicate whether a company is currently hiring.
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 costs
Employers cannot pass certain mandatory sponsorship costs to workers.
Common Mistakes When Using the UKVI Sponsor List
- Assuming every listed company is actively recruiting
- Failing to confirm sponsor licence status
- Applying for ineligible occupation codes
- Ignoring updated salary thresholds
- Using outdated versions of the sponsor register
Always verify the most recent version of the sponsor list before applying.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Sponsored
- Target shortage occupation roles
- Focus on healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction sectors
- Tailor your CV to UK recruitment standards
- Highlight specialist certifications and experience
- Apply directly to licensed sponsors
Healthcare providers and NHS trusts remain among the most active sponsors under the Skilled Worker route.
FAQs About the UKVI Sponsor List
Is the UKVI sponsor list publicly available?
Yes. The Register of Licensed Sponsors is published online by the UK government.
How often is the sponsor list updated?
The list is updated regularly to reflect new licences, suspensions, and revocations.
Can I apply for a Skilled Worker 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 comply with immigration rules can lose their sponsor licence.
Does being on the sponsor list guarantee visa approval?
No. Applicants must still meet all Skilled Worker visa eligibility criteria.
Final Thoughts
The UKVI sponsor list is an essential tool for international professionals seeking legal employment in the United Kingdom. It provides verified information about employers authorised to sponsor overseas workers under UK immigration law.
For job seekers, targeting licensed sponsors and meeting Skilled Worker eligibility requirements significantly increases approval chances. For employers, maintaining compliance ensures continued access to global talent.