Sponsor Licence Renewal in the UK: Step-by-Step Guide
LET’S DO BUSINESS The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast. [ninja_form id=’38’] Table of Contents Who Holds a Sponsor Licence? A sponsor licence is held by UK-based organisations (both businesses and charities) that wish to employ skilled workers from overseas under the points-based immigration system. Holding this licence allows them to legally sponsor non-UK nationals for work roles that meet the Home Office’s eligibility requirements. Common Sponsor Licence Holders Include: Private companies hiring Skilled Workers or Senior/Specialist Workers Educational institutions sponsoring international students or education professionals Charities and non-profits bringing in workers under specific temporary routes Healthcare providers, including NHS trusts and care homes, recruiting medical and care staff Tech firms, construction companies, financial services, and others facing domestic skill shortages To hold and maintain a licence, an organisation must demonstrate that it has a genuine need for the role, proper HR systems, and a solid history of compliance with immigration laws. If you’re unsure whether your business is eligible, check out our Sponsor Licence Guidance for UK businesses. What Exactly Has Changed with the Sponsor Licence? The UK sponsor licence has undergone a major overhaul. Let’s break down exactly what’s changed, who it affects, and what you still need to stay on top of. Before April 6, 2024: The Old System Under the previous rules, sponsor licences were only valid for four years. To continue sponsoring workers beyond that, you had to: Submit a formal sponsor licence renewal application before your licence expired Pay the required sponsor licence renewal fee (ranging from £536 to £1,476 depending on your organisation size) Wait several weeks for approval, as the Tier 2 sponsor licence renewal processing time could vary depending on case complexity Risk disruption or suspension if you missed the deadline or failed to meet compliance requirements After April 6, 2024: The New System As of April 2024, things have become much simpler for most UK sponsors: Licences that were valid on or after 6 April 2024 are now automatically extended for 10 years No renewal application or renewal fee is needed Your sponsorship duties continue as usual, but with heightened compliance monitoring Who Does This Affect? This change mainly benefits employers sponsoring under the following routes: Skilled Worker Senior or Specialist Worker Graduate Trainee Seasonal Worker Creative Worker In short, if your sponsor licence falls under a Worker or Temporary Worker route, you likely qualify for the 10-year automatic extension. Are There Any Exceptions? Yes, a few categories still have different rules. If you’re operating under one of these routes, the standard 10-year extension does not apply: UK Expansion Worker route: Licence valid for two years Scale-up route: Licence valid for four years, with no renewal after that unless switching to another sponsor licence type Shifting Focus to Ongoing Compliance Now that the Home Office is no longer busy reviewing renewal applications, they’ve intensified their focus on sponsor compliance. That means surprise audits, document checks, and closer scrutiny of your day-to-day sponsorship activities are more likely than ever. The consequences of slipping up can be severe. You could still face licence suspension or revocation. No warning, no grace period. Got your sponsor licence suspended? Don’t panic. Read our guide on what your next steps should be. Your Core Duties as a Sponsor To keep your sponsor licence in good standing, you must stay on top of your ongoing responsibilities. Here’s a quick checklist: Right to Work checks must be accurate and up to date Keep your sponsorship management system (SMS) updated, especially if your organisation’s structure, address, or key personnel changes Report changes in your sponsored workers’ circumstances (job role, salary, absences) within the required timeframes Retain clear records of all sponsored employees and relevant documents Respond promptly to any Home Office communications or site visit requests You’re still trusted with the privilege of hiring overseas talent. Now, without routine renewals, that trust is monitored more closely through compliance checks, not paperwork. Step-by-Step Guide to Flawless Sponsor Licence Compliance Now that sponsor licence renewal is no longer your primary concern, your energy should go into building a rock-solid compliance framework. Here’s your step-by-step guide to staying on the right side of the Home Office and keeping your licence safe. Step 1: Master the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) The Sponsorship Management System (SMS) is your digital lifeline. Everything from reporting changes to managing sponsored workers happens here. It’s essential that your key personnel know how to use it properly. Keep this information up to date: Job title and duties Work location Salary changes Start dates and delays Any changes in the worker’s immigration status Step 2: Fortify Your HR Systems Strong HR processes are your first line of defence in compliance. Here’s what you need to track and retain for every foreign worker: Copy of passport and visa (BRP) Right to Work check evidence Contact details (phone, address, email) Employment contract Absence records and performance reviews Expiry dates for visas and leave to remain Use reliable systems or reminders to flag upcoming expiry dates. Accidentally employing someone with an expired visa could have serious consequences. Step 3: Be Prepared for UKVI Compliance Checks UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) can conduct compliance visits at any time. These inspections might be announced—or not. Their goal? To ensure you’re playing by the rules. What they’ll look for: Whether you’re following your sponsor duties Accuracy of your SMS data Proper documentation for each migrant worker Evidence of right-to-work checks Staff awareness of reporting procedures Pro tips: Train your staff on sponsorship duties Have a “compliance folder” with key documents ready Do mock audits regularly If you fail a check, your licence can be downgraded or even revoked. Step 4: Understand Your Reporting Responsibilities Sponsors must inform the Home Office of key events within specific timeframes—usually 10 working days. Here
What Is PBS Dependant Visa? Everything You Need to Know
LET’S DO BUSINESS The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast. [ninja_form id=’38’] Table of Contents Understanding the UK Points-Based System (PBS) The PBS is the UK’s way of managing immigration for people coming from outside the European Economic Area (EEA). It’s a framework that decides who can enter or stay in the UK based on a set of points. These points are earned through things like job offers, salaries, skills, or qualifications. Applicants must achieve a required points total to be eligible for specific visas under this system. PBS Routes That Allow Dependants Your eligibility for a PBS Dependant Visa is directly linked to the main applicant’s status under a relevant PBS visa UK category. While not all UK visas permit dependants, this is a key feature of many PBS routes, including: Skilled Worker visa Global Talent visa Innovator and Scale-up visas The main applicant, your partner or family member, must first be granted a visa under one of these categories. Once they have received permission to live and work or study in the UK, you, as their dependant, can obtain your own leave to remain. What is a PBS Dependant Visa? When exploring the pbs visa meaning, it refers to a UK visa used primarily for individuals coming to the UK for work, study, or investment based on a points assessment. Unlike tourist or visit visas, this one gives you long-term residency rights that match the main applicant’s visa. That means if they are allowed to stay for three years, so are you. You also access to services like the NHS and, depending on your age and visa type, the freedom to take up a job or continue your education. You can apply for this visa in two ways: If you are outside the UK, you will need to apply for entry clearance—permission to enter the country. If you are already inside the UK, you can apply to switch or extend your visa by getting leave to remain. Learn more about UK visa types in our complete guide. Who Is Eligible? Relationship Requirements To apply for the PBS dependant visa, you will need to prove a genuine and qualifying relationship with the main visa holder. Here’s who can apply: Spouse or civil partner – You must both be 18 or older, and your relationship needs to be legally recognised in the UK. Unmarried partner – You will need to show that you have been living together in a relationship similar to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years before applying. Children under 18 – Older children can also qualify, but only if they were previously granted permission as dependants and still rely on their parents financially and emotionally. You will be asked to provide documents like marriage certificates, joint tenancy agreements, or photos together to support your application. Essential Criteria for PBS Dependants To successfully apply as a PBS dependant, you will need to meet a few key Home Office requirements beyond just your relationship with the main visa holder. 1. Financial Maintenance You must prove there are enough savings to support you without relying on public funds. If the main applicant’s employer is not covering your costs, you will need to show: £285 for a partner £315 for one child £200 for each additional child These funds must be held in a bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before you apply. 2. Suitable Accommodation You will need to show that there is safe, suitable housing available in the UK. It must not be overcrowded and must meet public health standards. 3. Criminal Record Certificate Adult dependants (over 18) applying under routes like Skilled Worker may need to provide a criminal record certificate from countries where they have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. 4. Match the Main Visa Category Every PBS visa route, like Skilled Worker, Student, or Global Talent, has its own set of rules. As a dependant, your application needs to match those same criteria and timeframes. The PBS Dependant Visa Application Process The application process for a PBS Dependant Visa is straightforward once each step is understood. Most applicants apply online. This can be done either from outside the UK (for entry clearance) or from inside the UK (for leave to remain or visa extension). Step 1: Complete the Online Application The application must be completed through the official UK government website. It is important to choose the correct form based on the applicant’s location at the time of applying. Step 2: Prepare and Upload the Required Documents A number of documents will be needed to support the application. These typically include: A valid passport or travel document Proof of relationship to the main applicant (such as a marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or evidence of two years’ cohabitation for unmarried partners) Financial evidence showing the required level of savings A birth certificate for children applying as dependants Additional documents like a criminal record certificate or TB test results are required for Pakistani applicants. Step 3: Pay the Fees Each applicant is required to pay the visa application fee, along with the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The IHS allows access to the National Health Service (NHS) during the stay in the UK. The surcharge is typically £1,035 per adult per year, and £776 per child per year. Step 4: Attend a Biometric Appointment After submitting the online form, the applicant will be asked to attend a biometric appointment. This involves providing fingerprints and a photograph. The appointment takes place at a visa application centre (if applying from abroad) or a UKVCAS centre (if applying from within the UK). Step 5: Wait for a Decision Once all the above steps are completed, the application is processed by the UK Home Office. Standard
Sponsor Licence Guidance: Bring Global Talent to Your UK Business
LET’S DO BUSINESS The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast. [ninja_form id=’38’] Who Needs a Sponsor Licence? Generally, if your business wants to hire someone from outside the UK who needs sponsorship for work visas, you will need a Sponsor Licence. However, there are a few exemptions. For instance, that you do not need a Sponsor Licence to employ individuals who already have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship. Key examples are: Individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. Those granted settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Irish citizens, who retain the right to work under the Common Travel Area arrangements. Those holding other types of visas that grant the right to work (e.g., Dependant visas, Global Talent visas, Graduate visas). The Sponsor Licence is directly tied to the employee’s visa application. You must obtain the licence before you can sponsor anyone. Once your company has the licence, you can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the employee. This CoS is an electronic record with a unique reference number that the employee must have to successfully apply for their work visa. Their application cannot proceed without it. Difference between Sponsor Licence and Self Sponsorship Many people get confused between sponsor licence and self sponsorship. But understanding the difference is crucial since they are separate topics. A Sponsor Licence allows your business to sponsor foreign nationals for work visas, such as the Expansion Worker visa authorising you to hire them for specific roles. As the sponsor, you are responsible for assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The employee’s visa is tied directly to their employment with your company. Now, let’s clarify a specific route that operates differently and is sometimes mistaken: the UK Expansion Worker Route. UK Expansion Worker Route It’s important you understand this pathway is quite different from how you would use your standard Sponsor Licence for your regular hiring needs. The UK Expansion Worker route is specifically designed for established overseas businesses that do not yet have a presence in the UK but want to set one up. Here are the key differences: For this route, the sponsor is the overseas parent company, not your UK business. It allows that overseas company to send a senior manager or specialist employee to the UK solely to establish the company’s first UK branch or subsidiary. The overseas company needs to apply for its own specific sponsor licence permission for this purpose. Once their UK branch is set up and trading, that new UK entity might then need to apply for a standard Sponsor Licence if it wants to hire other sponsored workers directly in the UK in the future. Learn all about UK work visa types in our comprehensive guide. How To Get Sponsorship Licence In UK Getting a Sponsor Licence in the UK involves completing the online application via the UK Home Office website and submitting all required supporting documents. Also, your business must meet certain legal and operational standards, choose the right licence type, appoint key personnel, and provide strong supporting documents. The Home Office will then conduct a thorough assessment of your organisation’s legitimacy, reliability, and capability to comply with sponsorship duties. In some cases, they might also come for an inspection or site visit to verify your eligibility. Let’s break down the key requirements you must meet to become an approved sponsor: Key Sponsorship License Requirements Before anything else, make sure your organisation meets the Sponsorship Licence requirements. You must be a genuine UK-based business, operate lawfully, and have no disqualifying history such as immigration offences or previous licence revocations. Let’s explain these requirements in more detail: Genuineness You must be a genuine, lawful organisation operating within the UK. The Home Office will verify that your business exists and is actively trading. In some cases, they may check with regulatory bodies, such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), depending on your industry. Honesty & Reliability Both you and key personnel within your organisation must demonstrate honesty and reliability. This means you cannot have a history of immigration offences, relevant criminal convictions, or previous licence revocations. There also shouldn’t be any active prohibition preventing you from sponsoring workers. Capability Your business must have the systems, processes, and resources in place to comply with sponsorship duties. This includes having effective HR systems, a structured recruitment process, and proper record-keeping to ensure compliance with Home Office requirements. These systems will be closely assessed to ensure you can meet your responsibilities as a sponsor. Genuine Vacancy You must show that you have a legitimate need for the role you wish to sponsor. The employee you wish to hire meets the required skill and salary levels for the relevant visa route (e.g., Skilled Worker visa). The Home Office will want to confirm that your business genuinely needs to hire a foreign national to fill the position. Choosing the Right Licence Type Choosing the right licence type is related to your actual recruitment needs. Applying for the wrong category could delay or restrict your hiring process. The licence you choose must align with the kind of roles you plan to recruit for. The Home Office offers two main categories: 1. Worker Licence This is for long-term employment roles. The most commonly used route under this category is the Skilled Worker visa, which allows you to sponsor individuals for jobs that meet specific skill and salary thresholds. If your business is looking to fill permanent or ongoing positions, this is likely the licence you will need. 2. Temporary Worker Licence This licence is designed for short-term or specific work placements. It includes routes such as Creative Worker, Charity Worker, and Seasonal Worker. These are suitable if you are recruiting for time-limited
Self Sponsorship Visa UK [2025]: Everything You Need to Know
LET’S DO BUSINESS The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast. [ninja_form id=’38’] Can I Sponsor Myself in the UK? The short answer is, yes you can but not in the way most people expect. Whilst there isn’t a visa category that allows you to sponsor yourself directly, certain UK immigration pathways allow you to achieve a similar outcome. Many entrepreneurs and skilled professionals aim to stay in the UK through their own business or exceptional skills. This can be done through visas like the Innovator Founder Visa, Global Talent Visa, or Skilled Worker Visa via your own company. The UK follows a points-based immigration system. You’ll need to meet certain criteria, like proving your business idea is viable or that your skills are in demand. For more information on the point-based system, read our guide on UK work visa types. The REAL UK Visa Routes for Aspiring Self-Sponsors If you’re looking to move to the UK without an employer sponsoring you, you’re probably wondering: What are my actual options? Let us break down the real visa options available in 2025. A Quick Comparison Table Here’s a quick comparison of the Innovator Founder, Global Talent, and Skilled Worker visa routes. Route Name Innovator Founder Global Talent Skilled Worker Primary Target Innovative Entrepreneurs with viable, scalable business ideas Proven Talent in science, humanities, engineering, arts and digital technology Business Owner needing to fill a specific role within their own UK company Key Requirement Endorsement from an approved Endorsement Body Endorsement from an approved Endorsement Body Sponsor Licence for your company + Assigning a CoS to yourself for an eligible vacancy ILR Path 3 years 3 years (exceptional talent) or 5 years (exceptional promise) 5 years The Innovator Founder Visa The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for entrepreneurs with truly innovative, viable, and scalable business ideas. It’s not for just any small business, it is for those bringing something new to the UK market. If you’re looking for how to get self-sponsored visa UK, this is a viable option. The Endorsement Body Before applying, you must get approval from a Home Office-approved Endorsement Body. They assess whether your business idea is: Innovative – A fresh concept, not just another version of an existing business. Viable – A solid business plan proving it can succeed. Scalable – Growth potential, job creation, and impact on the UK economy. Key Requirements To qualify for the Innovator Founder Visa, you must meet these key self-sponsorship visa UK requirements: Endorsement – Approval from an official Endorsement Body. Funds – No specific investment requirement, but enough to support yourself. English Language – Proficiency at B2 level (CEFR) or higher. Path to Permanent Residency This visa leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in just three years, provided you meet growth and job creation milestones. From there, British citizenship is within reach. The Global Talent Visa: For Exceptional Individuals The Global Talent Visa is for those who are recognised as leaders or potential leaders in their field. It’s ideal for top professionals in technology, science, arts, humanities, and academia who want to live and work in the UK without employer sponsorship. Endorsement To qualify, you must be endorsed by an approved body, such as Tech Nation (tech), Arts Council England (arts), or UK Research and Innovation (science and academia). They assess whether you: Are a recognised leader (established expert) or emerging leader (high potential). Have substantial achievements, awards, or contributions in your field. Meet specific criteria set by the relevant endorsing body. Why Choose This Visa? Unlike work visas, the Global Talent Visa offers: No employer sponsorship – Full freedom to work, switch jobs, or start a business. More flexibility – No salary or job role restrictions. Faster settlement – A quicker route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Path to Permanent Residency Exceptional Talent (Leader) – ILR in 3 years. Exceptional Promise (Potential Leader) – ILR in 5 years. For high-achievers looking for maximum freedom and a fast-track to UK residency, this visa is one of the best options. The Skilled Worker Visa (via Your Own UK Company – The Complex Route) For business owners who want to self-sponsor, the Skilled Worker Visa offers another pathway. This route requires establishing a legitimate UK business and meeting strict Home Office compliance standards. How It Works Set Up a Genuine UK Business – Your company must be legally registered, financially stable, and actively trading. Obtain a Sponsor Licence – The business must apply for a Sponsor Licence from the Home Office, proving it can legally sponsor workers. Prove a Genuine Vacancy – The company must show a real need for a skilled worker role that meets Home Office job eligibility criteria. Sponsor Yourself – Once licenced, your company issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for your Skilled Worker Visa application. Requirements This route demands careful planning and compliance, with key hurdles including: Strict Compliance Duties – Businesses must follow rigorous sponsor responsibilities, including tracking employee work status, reporting changes, and passing audits. Meeting Visa Criteria – The role must meet salary thresholds (generally £26,200/year or £10.75/hour, with exceptions) and English language proficiency (CEFR B1 level). Path to Permanent Residency Despite its challenges, this route offers a clear path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years, leading to potential British citizenship. How to Get Self-Sponsored Visa UK If you want to self-sponsor for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must follow a structured process. Here’s how to get self-sponsored visa UK step by step: 1. UK Company Formation You must first establish a genuine, operational UK business. This means: Registering your company with Companies House. Setting up a UK-based office and bank account. Ensuring the business is actively trading and financially viable. 2. Applying for a Sponsor Licence Your company needs a Sponsor Licence from
UK Visa & Sponsorship fees increase in April 2025
LET’S DO BUSINESS The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast. [ninja_form id=’38’] Key Changes to UK Visa & Sponsorship Fees: Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) Fee: Increase from £239 to £525 (a 120% rise). Sponsor License Applications: Small companies: Increase from £536 to £574. Large companies: Increase from £1,476 to £1,579. The UK Home Office has announced another hike in visa and sponsorship fees. If you were planning to apply for a UK visa or sponsor a worker, now is the time to act. These price changes will take effect from April 9, 2025, at 9:00 AM. For employers hiring skilled workers from abroad, this fee hike means higher sponsorship costs So, it is good to stay informed and prepare ahead of time. Are you an employer? Now is the time to prepare! Applying for your sponsorship license or COS before April could help you save money and avoid last-minute hassles. If you’re in the process of applying, talk to Legend Consults today to avoid delays. Our experts will ensure that your applications are processed before the new fees take effect.
UK Visa Types: A Complete Guide for 2025
LET’S DO BUSINESS The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast. [ninja_form id=’38’] Table of Contents Introduction to UK Visa System Before you apply for a UK visa, it is important to understand how the system works. The UK offers different visa types depending on why you want to travel. Some visas allow you to stay for a short time, whilst others let you live and work in the UK long-term. Short-term vs. Long-term visas UK visas are broadly divided into short-term and long-term categories. Short-term visas are for temporary visits. The most common example is the Standard Visitor Visa, which is granted for up to six months per visit, even if the visa itself is valid for multiple years. You will need a short-term visa for: Tourism and leisure. Visiting family and friends. Short business trips (e.g., attending meetings, conferences). Short-term study (e.g., language courses). Transit through the UK. Long-term visas, on the other hand, allow you to live, work, or study in the UK for an extended period. These visas are ideal if you plan to stay for more than six months and may lead to permanent residency. Common long-term visa types include: Work Visas – For skilled professionals with a job offer in the UK. Student Visas – For those enrolling in degree programmes. Family Visas – For joining a spouse, parent, or relative in the UK. Business & Investor Visas – For entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a presence in the UK. Points-Based System (PBS) The UK’s Points-Based System (PBS) assigns points based on specific criteria. Each visa type has its own points requirements, based on factors like salary, qualifications, English language proficiency, and sponsorship. If you meet the necessary points, you can apply for a visa under this system. Key visa categories under the PBS include: Skilled Worker Visa Student Visa Global Talent Visa Health and Care Worker Visa The PBS is designed to be flexible, allowing the UK to adjust immigration policies based on economic needs. Overview of Main UK Visa Types Choosing the right visa depends on your purpose of travel, eligibility criteria, and long-term plans. Below is a detailed breakdown of the main UK visa types. 1. Work Visas These visas allow foreign nationals to work in the UK, either for an employer or through self-employment. Most work visas fall under the Points-Based System (PBS) and require sponsorship from a UK employer or organisation. Skilled Worker Visa This visa is designed for professionals with a job offer from a licenced UK employer. It requires a salary of at least £26,200 per year (exceptions do apply). Applicants must meet the English language requirement and provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The best part about this visa is that it can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years. Read more about the skilled worker visa point based requirements in our guide: UK Work Visa Types: 2025 Key Updates Health and Care Worker Visa This is a specialised Skilled Worker Visa for qualified doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals. It requires a job offer from the NHS, social care sector, or an approved healthcare employer. It is also exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Global Talent Visa If you are a highly skilled individual in the field of science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), arts, or digital technology, this visa is best for you. To apply, you must be endorsed by a UK government-approved body, such as Tech Nation (for digital technology) or the British Academy (for humanities and social sciences). This visa does not require a job offer and provides flexibility to switch jobs or become self-employed. Global Business Mobility Visa This visa route enables overseas businesses to establish a UK presence or transfer existing employees for specific business purposes. It encompasses various sub-routes, including the Senior or Specialist Worker visa, which allows multinational companies to transfer senior managers or specialist employees to UK branches. It also includes the Graduate Trainee visa, for those on structured graduate training programs, and the UK Expansion Worker visa, for overseas companies setting up a UK branch. This visa category facilitates international business operations and knowledge transfer. Temporary Worker Visas These visas cater to individuals coming to the UK for short-term employment in specific sectors. This category includes the Seasonal Worker visa, for those working in agriculture or horticulture, and the Creative Worker visa, for artists, entertainers, and film crew. These visas are designed to address temporary labour shortages and provide opportunities for cultural exchange. Each sub-route has specific eligibility criteria and duration limits. Graduate Visa The Graduate Visa is designed for international students who have successfully completed a degree at a UK university or higher education provider. It allows graduates to stay in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to look for work or start a business. This visa provides valuable opportunities for recent graduates to gain work experience in the UK. To learn more about the types of UK work visas, read our comprehensive guide. 2. Student Visas The UK is a popular destination for international students. These visas allow foreign nationals to study in UK institutions that are licenced sponsors. To apply for a student visa, you must be aged 16 and above. Other required documents include an unconditional offer from a UK institution, proof of sufficient funds, and English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent test). With this visa, you are also allowed part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) during term time. Child Student Visa This is for students aged 4 to 17 studying at a UK independent (private) school. It requires proof of financial support and parental consent. Short-term Study Visa If you enroll in short courses (up to 6 months), such as English language programmes, you can apply
UK Work Visa Types: 2025 Key Updates
LET’S DO BUSINESS The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast. [ninja_form id=’38’] Table of Contents The UK’s New Point-Based Immigration System Since January 2021, the UK has adopted a flexible points-based system across categories to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to its economy. This new post-Brexit immigration policy replaced the previous tier-based system that categorised visas into tiers with varying requirements. With the integration of this system, individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences have a greater chance to qualify. How Points Are Awarded The point-based system is primarily used for work visas, but it can also influence other applications. These points vary by visa type. Generally, points awarded for meeting mandatory requirements, such as a job offer from a licenced sponsor, a job at the required skill level, and English language proficiency. Additional “tradable” points can be earned based on factors like salary, relevant qualifications, and whether the job is on a shortage occupation list. Key UK Work Visa Categories [Latest] Let us give you an overview of the most frequently utilised routes for employment in the UK. 1. Skilled Worker Visa: This is the primary route for skilled workers to come to the UK for employment. It is ideal for individuals with professional skills and qualifications seeking long-term employment. Let’s breakdown the requirements for the Skilled Worker visa in detail. Mandatory Requirements (50 points total): Job Offer from a Licenced Sponsor (20 points): You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence. Job at the Required Skill Level (20 points): Your job must be at the required skill level (RQF level 3 or above). English Language Proficiency (10 points): You must prove your English language ability to a minimum of CEFR level B1. This is an intermediate level of English proficiency. Tradable Points (additional points needed to reach 70 points): Salary Thresholds and Points System (20, 10, or 0 points): Points are awarded based on the salary offered, with higher salaries earning more points. There are also specific salary thresholds depending on the job. As of April 4, 2024, the general salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa has increased to £38,700 per year. Relevant PhD Qualifications (10 or 20 points): Holding a PhD in a subject relevant to your job can earn you extra points. Jobs in Shortage Occupations (20 points): If your job is on the UK’s shortage occupation list, you’ll earn additional points. New Entrant to the Labour Market (20 points): Those who are new to the job market may be able to gain extra points. 2. Health and Care Worker Visa: This is a specialised route within the Skilled Worker visa, designed to address labor shortages in the health and social care sectors. It is ideal for healthcare professionals and adult social care workers seeking long-term employment in the UK. Key Requirements: Job offer from a UK-licenced sponsor in an eligible health or social care occupation. Meeting the English language requirement. Meeting the salary threshold Points Are Awarded For: Having a job offer in an eligible health or care occupation. Meeting the specific salary requirements for health and care roles. English language ability. 3. Global Business Mobility Visas These visas enable business owners to transfer employees to the UK. It is ideal for multinational companies. Key Requirements: Sponsorship from a UK-based business. Meeting specific eligibility criteria related to the role and the applicant’s experience, that varies depending on the specific Global Business Mobility route. Read relevant article for information on how to get a business visa in the UK. 4. Temporary Worker Visas These visas are given to individuals seeking short-term employment in specific areas such as agricultural work or creative arts. Key Requirements: Sponsorship from a UK-licenced sponsor. Meeting specific eligibility criteria related to the type of temporary work. These visas are time-limited. 5. Global Talent Visa: This visa is for pioneers or exceptional individuals in the fields of science, humanities, engineering, arts, and digital technology. Key Requirements: Endorsement from a relevant UK-approved body. Demonstrating exceptional talent or promise in their field. Does not require a job offer. Sponsorship Requirements Sponsorship generally means that a UK-based organisation (an employer, for example) has been licenced by the Home Office to hire foreign workers. This organisation takes on certain responsibilities, like ensuring that the worker meets the visa requirements and adhering to UK immigration law. A key part is the issuance of a “Certificate of Sponsorship” (CoS) from the sponsor to the applicant. This document contains important details about the applicant and the job. From the list of visas we have discussed above, only the Global Talent Visa is exempt from sponsorship requirements. Application Process and Documents The document requirements can vary significantly based on the specific visa type. Here’s a general overview: 1. Online Application: Applicants will need to create an account and complete the online application form on the official government portal. There, you provide personal details, passport information, and details about the job offer or sponsorship. 2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): If the visa requires sponsorship (Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, Global Business Mobility, Temporary Worker), the sponsoring employer will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This unique reference number is required for linking the applicant to their sponsor. 3. Document Submission (Applicants from Pakistan): Applicants applying for a UK work visa from Pakistan must provide specific supporting documents to substantiate their application. These documents are crucial for the Home Office to assess eligibility. A valid passport with sufficient blank pages. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number issued by the UK-licenced sponsor. Proof of English language proficiency Proof of funds as bank statements. A formal job offer letter from the UK-based sponsoring employer Copies of academic degrees, diplomas, and professional certifications relevant to the job. Any professional memberships