Sponsor Licence For Businesses
Your Trusted Partner for Business Sponsor Licences
Employer Sponsorship License: Employers need a Sponsor Licence issued by the UK Home Office to act as a sponsor. This license allows them to assign sponsorship certificates to foreign workers they wish to employ. Getting a UK Sponsor Licence involves a specific Home Office application process with fees.
Certificate of Sponsorship: All foreign workers, including those from the European Union (EU), now require Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer to obtain a work visa. The Sponsor Licence lets you electronically assign a special code (Certificate of Sponsorship) to each worker. They use this code to apply for their work visa.
Defined Certificates
For individuals applying on a Skilled Worker visa from outside the UK, it is necessary to obtain Defined Certificate of Sponsorship for these workers through the sponsorship management system (SMS). Access to the SMS is granted upon receiving your licence.
How Can We Help You
At Aaraf Immigration Lawyers, we recognize that navigating the complicated landscape of immigration law can be challenging for businesses. That’s why we’re here to streamline the process for your business.
We will take these three simple steps :-
Initial Consultation: Discuss your sponsorship goals with our immigration expert. We’ll assess your needs and provide tailored advice on the most suitable path forward.
Dedicated Expertise: You’ll be assigned a Sponsor Licence Specialist lawyer who will meticulously examine your case who will guide you through every stage of the application, ensuring compliance with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) regulations.
Confident Submission: Our comprehensive service offers complete support, from initial consultation to submission. We’ll handle all aspects of the application, maximizing your chance of success and providing you with the peace of mind you deserve.
Main Documents for Licence Application:
Company full name and registration details with the Companies House in the UK
Annual Accounts (SIGNED) if your business is trading over 18 months.
Business bank statement from a registered and regulated by the FCA and PRA.
Employer liability insurance certificate (minimum employee cover £5 million)
Commercial Lease, Licence or Tenancy agreement
Approval from Regulatory body if applicable , i.e. Health & Safety star rating for food businesses, ACCA, SRA, QCC etc.
VAT Certificate (if registered)
PAYE or Account Office reference letter from HMRC
Employee’s information
Evidence of company Pension scheme
Duration of a Sponsor Licence
Sponsor licences used to require renewal every four years, but a recent policy change eliminates that step. Licences granted after April 6, 2024 are automatically extended for 10 years, so there’s no need to reapply or pay a renewal fee. This simplifies the process for employers with valid licences expiring on or after that date.
If you require assistance with your sponsorship licence application, speak to our helpful immigration lawyer by calling us on 0203 442 0292 or 07788250721.
Sponsor Licence Fees
You must pay an application fee, which varies based on the type of license you are applying for and the type of organization you represent.
Type of Licence | Small Sponsor | Medium/Large Sponsor |
Worker | £536 | £1,476 |
Temporary Worker | £536 | £1,476 |
Are you a small business ?
You’re usually a small sponsor if at least 2 of the following apply:
your annual turnover is £10.2 million or less
your total assets are worth £5.1 million or less
you have 50 employees or fewer
Processing Time:
Most applications are dealt with in less than 8 weeks. UKVI may need to visit your business.
Priority Service
You may be able to pay an extra £500 to get a decision within 10 working days. This service is limited to a small number of applications every working day.
Your Licence Rating
You’ll get an A-rated licence if your application is approved.
A-Rating – Full Sponsor Licence
An A-rated licence lets you start assigning certificates of sponsorship.
Downgrading To B-Rating
Your A-rated licence may be downgraded to a B-rating at a later stage if you do not continue to meet your sponsor responsibilities
Maintaining a Sponsor Licence
Maintaining a sponsor licence can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Our team offers expert guidance to ensure you stay compliant. . We’ll work closely with you to monitor changes and promptly report them to the authorities, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on what matters most – your business