Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence: A Complete Guide for UK Businesses

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

Types of Sponsor Licences

The type of licence required depends on the nature and duration of the employment you wish to offer. Licences are categorised as:

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

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

Skilled Worker Licence

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

1. Skilled Worker: For roles meeting specific job suitability criteria and skill levels.
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 working within religious organisations.
4. Sportsperson: For elite athletes and coaches intending to base themselves in the UK.

Temporary Worker Licence

A Temporary Worker Licence allows businesses to employ workers on a short-term basis. 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 (up to 1 year).
3. Religious Worker: For roles within religious organisations (up to 2 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, such as 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 operating legally in the UK.
2. Appropriate HR systems and processes are 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 online through the UKVI portal.
2. Submit Supporting Documents: Send required documentation within five working days of the online submission. 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 and a justification for why the licence is needed.

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 meets UKVI criteria.
• Document Preparation: Guidance on the correct documentation to submit.
• HR System Review and Development: Aligning your HR processes with UKVI requirements.
• Compliance Support: Helping you understand and implement policies on preventing illegal working, record-keeping, and right-to-work checks.