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Employer sponsorship is the primary legal route for non-UK nationals to work in the United Kingdom. Under this system, a UK employer sponsors a foreign worker for a Skilled Worker visa by issuing a formal sponsorship document and meeting strict compliance requirements set by UK immigration authorities.
This sponsorship model ensures that overseas workers are employed legally, fairly, and in roles where the UK labour market has genuine skill shortages.
What Is Employer Sponsorship in the UK?
Employer sponsorship means that a UK-licensed employer takes responsibility for hiring a non-UK worker and supports their visa application.
The employer must:
• Hold a valid sponsor licence
• Offer a genuine, eligible job role
• Pay a salary that meets UK visa thresholds
• Comply with immigration and employment laws
Without employer sponsorship, most non-UK nationals cannot legally work in the UK.
Which Visa Uses Employer Sponsorship?
The most common sponsored visa is the Skilled Worker visa, which replaced the former Tier 2 (General) visa.
Employer sponsorship may also apply to:
• Health and Care Worker visa
• Senior or Specialist Worker (Global Business Mobility)
• Temporary Worker routes (sector-specific)
How the UK Employer Sponsorship Process Works
Step 1: Employer Obtains a Sponsor Licence
A UK company must apply for and receive a sponsor licence from the Home Office. This confirms the employer is legitimate, financially stable, and capable of complying with sponsorship duties.
Step 2: Job Offer to the Foreign Worker
The employer offers a role that:
• Is on the UK’s eligible occupation list
• Meets the required skill level
• Pays at or above the minimum salary threshold
Step 3: Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Issued
Once the job offer is accepted, the employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) — a digital reference number required for the visa application.
The CoS includes:
• Job title and description
• Salary and working hours
• Sponsor licence details
• Duration of employment
Step 4: Worker Applies for the Skilled Worker Visa
Using the CoS, the worker applies for the visa, submits biometrics, and provides required documents such as:
• Passport
• Proof of English language ability
• Qualification or experience evidence
• Tuberculosis test (if applicable)
Step 5: Visa Decision and Travel
Once approved, the worker can travel to the UK and start employment with the sponsoring employer.
Who Is Eligible for UK Employer Sponsorship?
A worker must generally:
• Be a non-UK national
• Have a job offer from a licensed sponsor
• Meet skill and salary requirements
• Prove English language proficiency
• Have no serious immigration or criminal violations
Employer Responsibilities After Sponsorship
UK sponsors must:
• Keep accurate records of sponsored workers
• Report changes (job role, salary, absence, termination)
• Ensure compliance with UK employment laws
• Cooperate with Home Office audits
Failure to comply can lead to licence suspension or revocation.
Can a Sponsored Worker Change Employers?
Yes — but not freely.
If a worker wants to change employers:
• The new employer must be a licensed sponsor
• A new Certificate of Sponsorship is required
• A new visa application must be submitted before starting the new job
Can Family Members Join a Sponsored Worker?
Yes.?Sponsored workers can bring dependants, including:
• Spouse or partner
• Children under 18
Dependants are generally allowed to work in the UK without restrictions.
Does Employer Sponsorship Lead to Settlement?
Yes.?Most sponsored workers can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous lawful residence, provided all conditions are met.
Key Benefits of UK Employer Sponsorship
• Legal right to work in the UK
• Access to public healthcare (NHS)
• Family reunification options
• Pathway to permanent settlement
• Strong worker protections under UK law
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. UK immigration rules, salary thresholds, and sponsorship requirements may change. Always consult official UK government sources or licensed immigration professionals before applying.
January 23, 2026
