Overview
A Sponsor Licence is a permission granted by the Home Office to a UK-based organisation to sponsor non-UK nationals to work in the UK. Whether you are a small startup or a large corporation, having a sponsor licence is essential for hiring skilled workers from overseas and maintaining a diverse, talented workforce.
Eligibility Criteria
- The organisation must be a legitimate UK entity (company, charity, etc.).
- The organisation must be operating and trading in the UK.
- The organisation must have appropriate HR systems in place to monitor sponsored employees.
- The organisation must appoint key personnel (Authorising Officer, Key Contact, Level 1 User).
- The organisation must not have a history of immigration non-compliance.
Required Documents
- Proof of business premises (e.g. lease agreement or land registry).
- Employer's Liability Insurance (at least £5 million).
- VAT registration certificate or evidence of exemption.
- Recent corporate bank account statement.
- Latest annual accounts or a letter from a regulated accountant.
Application Process
- Internal Audit: We review your HR systems and personnel to ensure compliance readiness.
- Document Gathering: We help you collect the mandatory 4 pieces of evidence required by the Home Office.
- Online Application: We complete and submit the Sponsor Licence application form.
- Pay Fees: Pay the licence fee (based on company size).
- Compliance Visit: Prepare for a potential Home Office audit of your premises and systems.
- Licence Grant: Receive your licence and start issuing Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).
Processing Time & Fees
Processing Time: Usually 8 weeks. A priority service (10 working days) is available for an extra £500.
Fees: £536 for small or charitable sponsors, or £1,476 for medium or large sponsors.