Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence: A Complete Guide for UK Businesses

Before your business can legally sponsor skilled overseas workers in the UK, it must apply for and be granted a Sponsor Licence by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Types of Sponsor Licences

The type of licence required will depend on the nature and duration of the employment being offered. Licences are categorised as:

• Worker Licence: For long-term employment opportunities.
• Temporary Worker Licence: For short-term or temporary employment.

You may apply for a licence that covers one or both categories, depending on the needs of your business.

Skilled Worker Licence

A Skilled Worker Licence enables your organisation to employ overseas talent for long-term roles of up to six years. The licence is divided into several categories:

1. Skilled Worker: For roles that meet specific job suitability criteria and skill level requirements.
2. Intra-Company Visas: For multinational companies transferring established employees or graduate trainees to the UK. This includes:
   • Intra-Company Transfer
   • Intra-Company Graduate Trainee
3. Minister of Religion: For individuals employed within religious organisations.
4. Sportsperson: For elite athletes and coaches seeking to base themselves in the UK.

Temporary Worker Licence

A Temporary Worker Licence allows businesses to employ individuals on a short-term basis. The categories include:

1. Creative or Sporting Worker:
   • Sportspersons (up to 1 year)
   • Entertainers or artists (up to 2 years)
2. Charity Worker: For unpaid roles within charitable organisations, for a period of up to one year.
3. Religious Worker: For roles within religious organisations, for a period of up to two years.
4. Government Authorised Exchange Worker:
   • Work experience (1 year)
   • Research projects or practical training (up to 2 years)
5. International Agreement Worker: For roles governed by international law, including employees of overseas governments.

Main Requirements for a Worker Sponsor Licence

To secure a Worker Sponsor Licence, your business must demonstrate to UKVI that:

1. It is a genuine organisation lawfully operating in the UK.
2. It has appropriate HR systems and processes in place.
3. There is a legitimate need to employ overseas workers.

How to Apply for a Worker Sponsor Licence

1. Complete the Online Application Form: Submit your sponsor licence application through the UKVI online portal.
2. Submit Supporting Documents: Provide the required documentation within five working days of submitting the application. Examples include:
   • Bank statements
   • VAT certificate
   • PAYE tax reference number
   • Employer’s liability insurance certificate
   • Proof of business premises (lease or freehold document)
   • Annual accounts
   • Registration with local council (for hospitality businesses)
   • Regulatory body registration (e.g., Care Quality Commission for care homes)
3. Provide Company Information and Rationale: Include details about your organisation together with a clear justification for why the licence is required.

How We Can Help

We specialise in guiding businesses through the entire sponsor licence application process. Our services include:

• Assessing Application Validity: Ensuring your application fully meets UKVI criteria.
• Document Preparation: Advising on and assisting with the preparation of the correct supporting documentation.
• HR System Review and Development: Reviewing and aligning your HR processes to ensure compliance with UKVI requirements.
• Compliance Support: Providing guidance on implementing policies for preventing illegal working, maintaining accurate records, and carrying out right-to-work checks.