Overview
Self-Sponsorship is a unique pathway that allows international entrepreneurs to set up a UK company and then use that company to sponsor their own Skilled Worker visa. This route gives you full control over your business and your immigration status, without needing an external employer to sponsor you.
Eligibility Criteria
- You must set up a UK limited company.
- The company must apply for and obtain a Sponsor Licence from the Home Office.
- The company must offer you a genuine role that meets the Skilled Worker requirements (salary, skill level).
- You must have the necessary skills and experience to perform the role.
- You must meet the English language requirement.
Required Documents
- UK Company registration documents (Certificate of Incorporation).
- Evidence of business premises or virtual office.
- Corporate bank account statements.
- Sponsor Licence approval letter.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by your own company.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Application Process
- Company Formation: Incorporate a UK limited company and set up business operations.
- Sponsor Licence: Apply for a Home Office Sponsor Licence for your company.
- Issue CoS: Once the licence is granted, your company issues a CoS to you.
- Visa Application: Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa using the CoS from your company.
- Biometrics: Attend an appointment at a visa application centre.
- Decision: Receive your visa and start working for your own UK business.
Processing Time & Fees
Processing Time: Sponsor Licence takes 8 weeks. Visa application takes 3 weeks (outside UK) or 8 weeks (inside UK).
Fees: Sponsor Licence fee (£536 for small companies) + Visa application fee + IHS.