Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Application
Our Work
- –Business Immigration
- –Sponsor Licences
- –Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Application
- –Global Business Mobility Sponsor Licence
- –Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence Application
- –Sponsor Licence Restructures and Changes in Ownership
- –Sponsor Licence Change of Circumstances
- –Sponsor Guidance and Duties
- –Sponsor Licence Application Refused
- –Sponsor Licence Suspended
- –Sponsor Licence Revoked
- –Sponsor Compliance Review & Training
- –Right to Work Checks & Civil Penalties
- –Business & Work
- –Sponsor Licences
- –Personal Immigration
What Is A Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence?
Any UK organisation wishing to employ non-UK skilled workers must hold a Skilled Worker sponsor licence. Once approved, the organisation can assign Certificates of Sponsorship and recruit workers under the Skilled Worker provisions of the Immigration Rules.
Main Requirements For A Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence
To obtain a licence, an organisation must demonstrate to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that:
- It is a genuine and lawfully operating UK entity.
- It has appropriate HR systems and processes to meet ongoing sponsor duties.
- It has a legitimate need to sponsor skilled workers.
UKVI will expect evidence of an eligible role and a business need to recruit individuals with skills that may not be readily available in the local labour market.
The Application Process
A Skilled Worker sponsor licence application involves completing an online form and submitting supporting documentation to UKVI to confirm that the organisation is genuine and actively trading.
Typical documents include:
- Recent business bank statements.
- Evidence of PAYE registration.
- Employer’s liability insurance.
- Proof of business premises.
All supporting documents must be provided within five working days of submitting the online form.
UKVI also requires certain information about the organisation, as set out in Appendix A of the Sponsor Guidance, and specific information regarding the worker and the role to be sponsored.
Processing Times
UKVI can take up to 10 weeks to decide an application.
Where available, the Home Office priority service can reduce processing times to around 10 working days.
Compliance Checks
Before reaching a decision, UKVI may carry out a compliance check to assess whether the organisation is capable of meeting its sponsor duties. A compliance check may involve:
- An in-person visit.
- A remote digital review.
- A request for evidence or information.
UKVI may examine HR policies, procedures and current practices. If concerns arise, the application may be delayed or refused. It is therefore important to ensure systems and documentation are in good order before applying.
How Our Immigration Partners Can Help
Sponsor licence applications are scrutinised closely. If UKVI is not satisfied that the organisation meets the requirements, the application may be delayed pending further review or refused. Thorough preparation is essential.
We advise organisations and provide clear, practical support throughout the application process. Our work includes assessing eligibility, preparing documentation, and ensuring that the organisation meets the requirements for the relevant route.
If your organisation requires legal assistance or would like to discuss your circumstances, please contact us or complete our enquiry form below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Needs A Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence?
A UK organisation will usually need a Skilled Worker sponsor licence if it wants to employ non-UK nationals in eligible skilled roles. Once approved, the organisation can assign Certificates of Sponsorship to workers who meet the relevant visa requirements.
What Does UKVI Look For When Assessing An Application?
UKVI will consider whether the organisation is genuine, operating lawfully in the UK, has appropriate HR systems in place and has a genuine need for a sponsor licence. UKVI will also consider whether the proposed roles are genuine and capable of meeting the Skilled Worker route requirements.
What Documents Are Needed For A Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Application?
The required documents depend on the type of organisation and the circumstances of the application. Common documents include a business bank statement, evidence of employer’s liability insurance, PAYE registration, VAT registration where applicable and evidence of business premises. Some organisations, such as start-ups, charities, franchises and regulated businesses, may need to provide additional evidence.
How Quickly Must Supporting Documents Be Sent To UKVI?
Supporting documents must usually be provided within five working days of submitting the online application. It is therefore important to identify and prepare the correct evidence before the application is submitted.
How Long Does A Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Application Take?
UKVI decisions can take up to 10 weeks, although applications are often decided sooner. Where the priority service is available, the decision-making period may be significantly shortened.
Will UKVI Carry Out A Compliance Visit?
UKVI may carry out a compliance visit or remote review before deciding the application. This is used to assess whether the organisation can comply with its sponsor duties, including record keeping, right to work checks, reporting duties and monitoring sponsored workers.
Can An Application Be Refused?
Yes.
An application may be refused if UKVI is not satisfied that the organisation is genuine, has a genuine need to sponsor workers, has provided the correct evidence or can meet its sponsor duties. Careful preparation can reduce the risk of delays, further enquiries or refusal.