Preparing for a UKVI Sponsor Licence Compliance Visit
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 What Is a UKVI Sponsor Licence Compliance Visit? A UKVI Sponsor Licence compliance visit is carried out by a Home Office compliance officer to ensure all the activities performed by the organisation comply with the sponsor’s duties and obligations according to the UK immigration rules. These visits are: Carried out before your licence is granted. Routine checks after your licence is issued. Unannounced to check if all the records provided are accurate. Are Sponsor Duties and Compliance Important? The UK government trusts organisations that hold a sponsor licence to monitor and handle all activities for sponsored workers properly. These organisations: Report any changes in the circumstances of the employees through the Sponsorship Management System (SMS). Maintain a well-organised record of HR files and right-to-work records. Ensure that all sponsored workers are doing their specialised job as mentioned in the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Keep all records with proper Appendix D requirements. Documents You Should Prepare Here’s a list of documents that you should have in place at the time of the UKVI audit: Employee Right-to-Work checks (copies of passports, visas, and BRPs) Contracts of employment and job descriptions CoS records for each sponsored worker Attendance monitoring records (e.g., timesheets or absence logs) Appendix D: record-keeping documents Contact details history for all sponsored staff Payslips and payroll records Evidence of recruitment practices Organisation chart and reporting structure Ensure that all these documents are accurate, finalised, and easily accessible. It is recommended to maintain an internal audit as a routine to avoid any last-minute hurdles. Who Is Involved in the Preparation? The preparation for sponsor compliance visits will require key people directly responsible for the compliance: The senior Authorising Officer (AO). Your primary Key Contact (KC) with UKVI. A Level 1 User who manages day-to-day updates in the SMS. All personnel should be familiar with their job responsibilities and come prepared to answer any questions that may be asked during the compliance visit. What Happens During the Visit? At the time of the visit, the UKVI compliance officer will: Start an interview with all key personnel, including (AO, KC, Level 1 User). Review all HR and internal audit files. Analyse if all sponsored workers are currently performing their job roles. Verify if the salaries meet the actual threshold of the Skilled Worker Visa or the Global Business Mobility routes. See if there is any pattern for fraud or abuse in the existing system. If the officer finds anything, the body will issue an action plan or may start proceedings to suspend or revoke the licence in case of any serious fraudulent activity. Compliance Issues to Avoid Here are some real-life examples that led to severe penalties from the Home Office: Employers failed to report the title change in the SMS system. Contacts were missing or outdated in the employee’s record book. There was no system in place to track attendance. The sponsored workers were doing roles other than the ones listed on their CoS. How Often Should You Do an Internal Sponsor Licence Check? It is recommended to have a quarterly review of your organisation. Use a proper compliance audit checklist that involves your HR and legal team. Ensure that all files related to paychecks, attendance, CoS, and other documents are stored securely and accurately. FAQs About UKVI Compliance Visits Who can sponsor UK visit visa? Whilst individuals can sponsor a visit visa, only licenced organisations are eligible to sponsor workers in the Skilled Worker or similar routes. How long does a compliance visit take? On average, the visit takes about 2 to 4 hours. The duration greatly depends on the number of sponsored workers in the organisation. Will I be told about the visit in advance? No! UKVI may also turn up without prior notice to check if the process is carried out as part of the daily routine. Stay One Step Ahead Sponsor duties and compliance are not something you should take lightly. It takes a considerable amount of time to prepare all the necessary documents and adopt the right approach to ensure you are fully prepared for the UKVI sponsor licence compliance visit. If you are worried about a compliance visit, Legend Consults’ immigration consultants will help you with the audit and records to make sure you are fully prepared before time. Does your company hold a sponsor licence? If so, preparing for a compliance visit should be your priority. The Home Office can conduct a visit without prior notice and check how well the sponsor duties and compliance are met. If they find anything suspicious, it may lead to a licence suspension or revocation, affecting all your sponsored workers. Learn how to stay ahead and prepare for the visit, including what documents you will need and the mistakes you need to avoid.
Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa in the UK
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 What is the Graduate Visa UK? The Graduate route was introduced as a new, distinct route in 2021, nine years after the Tier-1 (Post-Study Work Visa) was closed (in 2012). This visa allows international students who have completed their degree in the UK to stay and work here up to: 2 years for Bachelor’s and Master’s degree holders 3 years for PhD or doctoral degree holders Key Benefits: No need for employer sponsorship You can work in all roles Ideal to build your work experience in the UK Limitations: The visa is non-renewable (cannot be extended) It does not allow for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) There is no employer compliance, so you are at risk of losing the visa without a switch For ambitious graduates who wish to stay in the UK and progress beyond this stage, they will need to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa. Why Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa UK? There are multiple benefits to switching from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK: You can stay in the UK for up to 5 more years. It gives you eligibility for an Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years. Creates a stable environment for the employer to sponsor as per compliance. You can build your career by working on international work, promotions, and client work. You are allowed to work on roles that involve sensitive data or intellectual property. Who is Eligible to Switch from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa? To be eligible for applying for the Skilled Worker Visa, you should be: Living in the UK at the time of application submission. Holding a valid Graduate Visa. Having a job offer letter from a UKVI-approved skilled worker visa sponsor list. Confident that the job is listed in the skilled worker occupation list. Meeting the minimum salary requirements: From April 2024, £38,700 for most roles or the going rate, whichever is higher Can be higher for some roles Fluent in English and meeting the financial requirements to stay in the UK. The salary threshold may be different for certain professions like teaching, healthcare, or other roles, so you need to check with the official government website. What Documents Do I Need for the Visa Switch? Moving on to the next step, you will now need to ensure all documents are available at the time of submission. Here’s a checklist for both parties: From the Employee: Valid passport Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) (if applicable) Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number A UK degree certificate or transcript Criminal record certificate (for sensitive roles) Tuberculosis test results (if required) From the Employer: A valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence Assignment of an undefined Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) The job title and responsibilities Correct Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code Confirmation of salary meeting the threshold A signed employment contract Company details as per UKVI How to Switch from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa Step 1: Check for CoS Allocation Employers will first need to log into their Sponsor Management System (SMS) and see how many undefined CoS are left to use. If needed, apply for a larger allocation and wait approximately 18 weeks to receive it. Step 2: Assign an Undefined CoS After getting the CoS, the sponsor will need to assign one who has: A job title and SOC code Complete job responsibilities are mentioned Full details about the salary A valid work address and the start of the first day of the job A defined work pattern, whether full-time or part-time Step 3: Skilled Worker Visa Application Submission Once you have the CoS reference, the next step is to apply for the Skilled Worker visa via the UKVI portal, ensuring that every detail matches the CoS. Step 4: Pay the Fees CoS Assignment Fee: £525 Immigration Skills Charge (may increase to 32% within 2025): Small sponsors: £364/year Medium/Large sponsors: £1,000/year Immigration Health Surcharge (paid by applicant): £1,035/year Priority Service (optional): ~£800 Skilled worker visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are subject to change. Applicants should always verify the current amounts on the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website before applying. Step 5: Processing Time The decision time can take up to weeks: Standard: Up to 8 weeks Priority: 5 working days Super Priority: 1 working day (subject to availability) Once the decision is made, you will receive an official email along with details to submit your biometric details through the given instructions. Step 6: Start Working and Updating Records Once the application is approved, you can: Update the HR system and add new visa expiry dates Make sure that the right-to-work documentation is valid Ensure that you remain compliant with UKVI rules Keep a record of CoS issuance and other details Skilled Worker Visa Extension and ILR Once granted, the Skilled Worker Visa can be: Extended before expiry Used to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years To qualify for ILR, ensure: Your role and salary meet current criteria You have had no extended absences from the UK You pass the Life in the UK test and meet English requirements Employer Sponsorship Responsibilities Employers must: Hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence Assign the correct SOC code and salary level Submit accurate CoS documentation Track visa expiry dates and job changes Report changes via SMS to UKVI Maintain copies of contracts, job descriptions, and CoS letters Common Employer Mistakes: Using a defined CoS instead of an undefined (for in-country applications) Assigning an incorrect SOC code Failing to report job location or role changes Delaying CoS assignment until late in the visa lifecycle Failure to meet these requirements can lead to fines, audits, or licence suspension
Defined vs. Undefined CoS: What’s the Difference?
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 What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)? A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a mandatory electronic record, not physical paper, that a licenced UK employer must create to hire a specific foreign worker. It serves as a unique reference number that contains all the details of the job offer and officially proves to the UK Home Office that the position is genuine. CoS in UK visa application is absolutely crucial, as a worker cannot submit an application for a UK Skilled Worker visa or other sponsored route without it. There are two types of Certificate of Sponsorship UK: Defined CoS Undefined CoS Check out our Sponsor Licence Guidance, too. The most challenging part about hiring foreign skills is to not get in trouble with the UKVI regarding sponsor licence. Which Visas Require a CoS? Here are the main visa categories and specific routes that require a Certificate of Sponsor: Worker Visas for long-term work (e.g., Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa) Temporary Worker Visas (e.g., Scale-Up Visa, Seasonal Worker Visa) Global Business Mobility Visas (e.g., UK Expansion Worker Visa, Senior or Specialist Worker Visa, Secondment Worker Visa) What is Defined CoS vs Undefined CoS? The type of CoS you need mainly depends on one key factor: whether the person is applying from inside or outside the UK. Here’s a quick look at their differences: Feature Defined CoS Undefined CoS Applicant Location Outside the UK Already in the UK Purpose New entry to the UK Switching/extending visa Approval Speed Very fast (1 day) Very slow (18 weeks) How to Request a Defined CoS A defined CoS is requested on a case-by-case basis for a specific job role and a specific individual applying from overseas. There is no annual allocation; you must apply for one each time you hire someone from abroad. Here’s a step-by-step process: 1. Log in to the Sponsor Management System (SMS): A Level 1 User must access your organisation’s SMS account. 2. Navigate to the defined CoS Section: Go to the ‘Workers’ section and then select ‘Defined CoS’. From there, choose the option to ‘Apply for a Defined CoS’. 3. Complete the Application Form: Fill in specific details about the job and the prospective employee. This includes: a. Job title and the correct Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code. b. Detailed duties and responsibilities of the role. c. The salary and working hours per week. d. The work start and end dates. e. The primary work address. f. Confirmation that the job meets all the requirements of the visa route (e.g., skill level and salary thresholds). 4. Submit the Request: Once all information is entered and verified, submit the application. 5. Await Approval: The Home Office reviews the request. Most straightforward applications are decided within one business day. However, it can take longer if they require additional information or have concerns about the role’s genuineness. 6. Assign the CoS: Once approved, the defined CoS will appear in your SMS account. You can then formally assign it to the worker, who will use the unique CoS reference number to apply for their visa. How to Request an Undefined CoS An Undefined CoS comes from a yearly allocation that your organisation estimates it will need for hiring people already in the UK (e.g., those switching visa types or extending their stay). Here’s how you can obtain an undefined CoS: 1. Check Your Annual Allocation When you first get your sponsor licence, you estimate how many Undefined CoS you will need for the first year. This becomes your annual allocation, which is renewed each year. Before hiring someone from within the UK, the first step is always to check if you have a CoS available for this allocation. Log in to the Sponsor Management System (SMS). View Your Allocation: Your current number of available Undefined CoS is visible in the system. If you have one available, you can proceed directly to assigning it to a worker. 2. Requesting an Additional Allocation (If Needed) If you have used all your undefined CoS for the year or need more than you were allocated, you must request an increase. Log in to the Sponsor Management System (SMS). Navigate to the Allocation Request Section: Find the option similar to “Request additional CoS allocation” or “Renew annual allocation.” 3. Justify the Request Provide your reason for needing more undefined CoS. This could include details about expected recruitment, specific employees who need to extend their visas, or other business needs. 4. Submit and Wait This is the crucial difference. A request for an additional undefined CoS allocation can take up to 18 weeks to be processed by the Home Office. Priority service, however, is available for an extra fee. 5. Assign the CoS Once the Home Office approves your request and the additional CoS appear in your allocation, you can then assign one to the worker by entering their personal and job details into the SMS. How Do Annual CoS Allocation Renewals Work? The annual CoS allocation for the sponsor is calculated based on multiple factors, including when it was first issued and when it was last renewed. Often, the allocation of CoS is automatically renewed each year, calculated based on the number of CoS allocated in the last 12 months via SMS. The annual CoS allocation for majority of sponsors is for 12 months but for the sponsors who had their valid Tier 2 (General) or the Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) licence at the time of 30 November 2020, and whose licence was converted to Skilled Worker or Intra-Company routes on the 1 December 2020, will need to apply for allocation through a different process: If the sponsor’s CoS allocation renewal has been automated,
How to Write an Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan That Gets Approved
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 What is the Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan? The UK Innovator Founder Visa business plan is the official document required by UKVI, which outlines your business plan, growth potential, and your role as the owner. This will be assessed by the relevant endorsing bodies to decide whether you are eligible for the visa. A good business plan should be: Innovative: Offering a unique solution to fill a gap in the existing market. Viable: Realistic and achievable with complete market research and experience. Scalable: To contribute to the UK economy and grow the relevant sector. What to Include in Your Innovator Founder Business Plan You need to prove you have a genuine intention to run a UK business when applying for the Innovator Founder visa. Here are the key components of your business plan: 1. Clear Executive Summary a. A brief and clear overview of what your business idea is about. b. Summary of SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis to determine the market condition. 2. Founder Role a. Background experience and qualifications of the founder, and identity proof. b. Any immigration history and English language proficiency, such as IELTS UK. 3. Business Plan Details a. A clear company statement and objectives. b. Structure of the business as per the UK (sole trader, partnership, or company). 4. Idea Innovation a. Summary of how a business idea fills a genuine gap in the market. b. References to patents or papers of proprietary processes. 5. Complete Market Analysis a. Overview of your target market in the UK. b. A thorough SWOT and competitor analysis. c. A well-defined marketing strategy to reach the target audience’s niche. 6. Forecast of 3-Year Finances a. Complete projection for the next 3 years with cash flow, balance sheet, and profit and loss statements. b. Analysis of when your business will reach breakeven. c. Plan to fulfil tax obligations. 7. Business Operation Plans a. Plan to recruit staff (HR contracts, and employee rules as per UK law). b. A complete milestone and time plan to launch the business. c. Details about the company registration process. 8. Business Scalability a. Plan to grow business, create jobs, and enter the market. b. Tools and technologies that will be used to scale the business, such as AI / ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning). What Do UK Endorsing Bodies Look For? The endorsing bodies in the UK follow strict rules defined by the Home Office to evaluate an Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan. They assess: How original the idea is Commitment of the applicant as a founder Overview of market analysis and demand Financial forecast and realistic growth summary It is recommended to seek help from a professional solicitor to ensure your plan aligns with the eligibility criteria. Professionals like Legend Consults can also advise on the processing time and success rate of relevant endorsing bodies. What is the Current Innovator Visa UK Success Rate? The estimated average success rate for the Innovator Visa UK is presumably lower, as most applications fail to get approval from the endorsing bodies. To increase your chances of approval, be sure to: Always give real data and forecasting Not use generic content templates for a business idea Get legal professional help from a business consultant What is the UK Innovator Visa Processing Time? The processing time of the UK Innovator Visa can take anywhere between 3 and 8 weeks after the submission of your application. It may take longer depending on the Home Office caseload and the time required to authenticate your business visa UK requirements and documents. How Much Does the Innovator Founder Visa Cost? The cost of an Innovator Founder Visa application is £1,036, whereas the IHS fee is £624 in the current year. To be eligible to apply, applicants must first pay the endorsing body fee of £1,000 (excluding VAT) to secure the endorsement. It is worth noting that Visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are subject to change. Therefore, it is recommended that applicants verify the current amounts on the official government website before submitting their applications. What Is the Ideal Business Plan Structure Outline? Here’s a practical outline to help structure your Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan: Cover Page (with your name, business name, and date) Executive Summary Business Overview Problem & Solution Innovation & Market Differentiation Market Analysis (target audience, competitors, trends) Marketing Plan (channels, budget, projections) Operational Plan (logistics, team, timeline) Financial Forecast (3 years minimum) Risk Assessment and Mitigation Scalability Plan Appendices (CV, company registration, IP, etc.) Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan FAQs What makes a business plan eligible for the Innovator Founder Visa? A business plan becomes eligible when it’s innovative, viable, and scalable. Your business idea should be in high demand in the market, offering a solution that supports the UK economy. Can I write my own business plan? You can, but it’s always recommended to seek help from a professional solicitor to improve your chances of following the rules set by the Home Office. Does the business have to be tech-based? There is no restriction on the business industry, and any sector can be eligible for the visa as long as it is unique and scalable. Can I change my business idea after getting the visa? Minor changes are acceptable, but changing a plan as a whole is not acceptable and will require you to again apply for the endorsement. Is IELTS mandatory? Yes, to qualify for the visa, you need to prove English proficiency (e.g., IELTS for UKVI, CEFR B2 level). Need Help Writing Your Visa Business Plan? Not confident if your Innovator Founder Visa business plan will get
UK Dependant Visa Requirements 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 Who Qualifies for a UK Dependant Visa? The UK dependant visa allows family members of individuals living legally in the UK to join them until their visa expires, but not every member may qualify as a dependant. • Who Are Dependants? Based on the visa route of the applicant, the dependants include: Spouse or civil partner Unmarried partner (if you have lived together for at least 2 years) Children under 18 (or over 18 if already in the UK as dependants) The primary visa holder must be in the UK on a valid route, such as: Skilled Worker Visa Student Visa Health and Care Worker Visa Temporary Work Visa Global Talent Visa Indefinite Leave to Remain (for eligible family reunion cases) • Main Visa Categories That Allow Dependants The main applicant must hold a qualifying primary visa which may be either of the following: Skilled Worker Visa Student Dependant Visa Health and Care Worker Visa Global Talent Visa Innovator Founder Visa Scale-Up Visa Start-Up Visa British Nationals or with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) UK Dependant Visa Documents Required The UK Dependant Visa is only granted to those applications that fall within the Home Office list of requirements. Let’s see the list of UK dependant visa documents required: 1. Relationship Proof For spouses and partners, applicants need to show: Certificate of their marriage or partnership Clear evidence of living together or being in contact If the dependant visa applicant is unmarried, the applicant will need to show: Proof of a minimum of 2 years living together, shown through shared tenancy agreements, utility bills, council tax letters, or any joint financial assets Evidence of the ongoing relationship through photos, SMS, traveling diaries, etc. If the dependants are children, applicants will need to show: Birth certificate of the child with both parents Evidence of the dependant living with parent(s) and not married Letter of consent 2. Accommodation The dependants are required to stay in a house that has: The capacity to adjust to new people A legal sponsor owning or renting it Approval of habitation and not harmful to family members The applicants will need to provide: The tenancy agreement or a statement of mortgage Utility bills or council tax bills Report of the inspection done for their accommodation 3. Language Proficiency English language proficiency is a non-negotiable requirement for spouses and partners, proved through: Passing English Language A1 test Having a degree in English Being born in an English-speaking country Children and some categories are exempt from this rule. 4. Background Check Applicants should have: No past criminal record or legal issues No breach of immigration rules No cases of any threat to public safety UK Dependant Visa Financial Requirements There is a minimum threshold of income or savings to meet for each visa category to ensure that dependants will not be relying on public funds. For instance, if you are a Skilled Worker visa holder, amount includes: £285 for a partner £315 for one child £200 for every individual child If you are a student visa holder, financial requirements are: £845/month (if you are in London) £680/month (if you are outside London) If the sponsor (main applicant) has already been living in the UK for over a year, financial requirement does not apply. Applying For a UK Dependant Visa in 2025 This depends on whether the main applicant is applying from within the UK or from outside. Here are how: Step 1: Confirm Eligibility for the Visa Process Before you begin the process, confirm that: The main applicant has the correct visa type that allows dependants. Relationship with dependants qualify within the Home Office rules. You fulfil all the financial and document requirements. Seek legal advice from UK immigration lawyers for a maximum chance of success in your application. Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready The following documents are required: A proof of relationship Finances to cover maintenance and accommodation Active status of immigration for the main applicant A certificate of English language proficiency In case of any non-English documents, you will have to translate them through a certified individual, along with a declaration that these are accurate. Step 3: Form Submission and Biometric Apply for a UK visa from the official government website by: Selecting the correct dependant visa form as per the visa holder’s route. Completing the application form and declaring all document history. Paying the visa application fee along with the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Booking your biometric appointment after submission: a. Visa Application Centre (VAC) when you apply from a foreign country b. UKVCAS centre when you apply from the UK Step 4: Upload Documents & Wait for Decision Upload all required documents before the biometric or at the appointment center facility. Make sure all documents are clear, and file names are proper, like “Birth_Certificate”. It can take 3 to 6 weeks in standard time, and 1 week in priority (from outside the UK) It can take 8 weeks in standard time, 5 working days in priority (within the UK) The decision will be emailed or sent in letter form, along with a biometric residence permit (BRP), after approval. Once your application is approved, you can travel to the UK within the specified validity period, which is typically 90 days. After arrival, you need to collect your BRP from the given office and get registered with the employer or school. Dependants’ Rights in the UK As soon as the dependant visa is granted, the visa holder can stay in the UK on the same duration as the primary visa holder, but their rights differ. Here are some of the conditions for the UK dependants: • Right to Work in the UK The dependants
What Is Certificate of Sponsorship? Full Guide for Employers
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 Visa Types That Require Certificate of Sponsorship Any individual who is applying for a job in the UK requires a certificate of sponsorship to enter and leave the UK under its sponsored visa categories, which include: Skilled Worker visa Global Business Mobility visas Scale Up visa Minister of Religion International Sportsperson Scale-up Worker Creative Worker Religious Worker Government Authorised Exchange International Agreement Seasonal Worker You can visit the official Gov.UK page for more details to work in the UK. Types of Certificates of Sponsorships After the updates in immigration rules in 2020, there are currently two main types of Certificates of Sponsorship for employers: Defined Certificate of Sponsorship It is required for hiring foreign skilled workers with an eligibility requirement that the job offer is from a licenced employer, whilst the salary is according to the standard threshold. The sponsor must get this CoS from the Sponsor Management System (SMS). Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship This visa type is required for extending a visa, switching jobs, or hiring within the country. It is required to get a job offer from a licenced sponsor; however, this type is suitable only for individuals already in the UK. The Home Office assigns a yearly quota for employers in the undefined CoS category. If you apply for the wrong CoS type, it can result in processing delays or visa refusals. Eligibility Criteria to Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship Employers who want to get their hands on the CoS must: Have a current Sponsor Licence. Be at the UKVI skill and salary levels. Meet visa requirements, such as English language proficiency and qualifications in some instances. Employers must ensure that jobs are added to the Home Office list of required professionals, such as engineers, IT experts, health care professionals, and education professionals. The eligibility for UK visa sponsorship for employees is also detailed on the official website. How to Apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship Before you apply for the CoS, it is important to comply with the relevant rules and regulations mentioned in the UK immigration law. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your CoS: Log in to the Sponsor Management System (SMS), accessible to Level 1 users only. Request a Defined CoS, which is required for overseas hires. Fill in the CoS Form, including job title, SOC code, pay, hours, and duration. After approval, issue the CoS and generate the Certificate of Sponsorship number, which the employee will use on their visa application. Employers must apply with the UK certificate of sponsorship processing time in mind. An 8-to-10-week timeframe for applying for the sponsorship licence is required. A 1-to-2-week timeframe is needed to request Defined CoS. The certificate must be issued to the employee within 3 months of issuance. Employer’s CoS Compliance Checklist Hold an active Sponsor Licence Choose the correct Defined or Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship Check that the job is UKVI compliant Pay the required certificate of sponsorship UK fee Use the SMS platform correctly Keep records and report changes Check the candidate’s Right to Work Assigning a CoS Your sponsor must issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before you can apply for your visa. Their Level 1 or 2 user on the Sponsor Management System (SMS) does this by submitting your details, generating a unique CoS reference number. As per the Home Office SMS guide, here are the steps to follow: Click the ‘Create and Assign’ from the workers screen. Choose the visa category as per the CoS. Add the employment details on the Application page for the defined CoS. After confirmation of your CoS application, verify the information. If there is any change, ‘Amend’ the changes. After you select ‘Assign’, tick all the boxes to confirm that you have read everything. Your screen will be directed to the online payment of the fee. Once the payment is complete, the screen will be directed to a screen that shows whether CoS has been assigned and allocated with a unique reference number. The application number will also be shown in the application for the defined CoS. Certificate of Sponsorship UK Cost The price of a certificate of sponsorship for the UK in the year 2025 is as follows: £525 for a Skilled Worker CoS £55 for Temporary Worker CoS An additional Immigration Skills Charge is as follows: £1,000 annually for every sponsored worker £364 for registered charities or small sponsors For more details, view our UK Visa Sponsorship Fees Guide. How to Check if CoS is Genuine or Not The Sponsor Management System (SMS) is the major way on how to check CoS status. Applicants should ensure their CoS number is the same as the one provided. Look at red flags like wrong job titles, salary differences, and incorrect SOC codes. For details, consult UKVI or regulated immigration solicitors or barristers for sponsor licence guidance. Common CoS Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Some of the most common errors you need to avoid are: Assigning CoS for jobs that do not meet the eligibility criteria. Wrong selection of the SOC code. Avoiding Right to Work checks. Not informing UKVI about a change of job or an employee. Employers must ensure they comply with the rules to avoid these mistakes, which can result in fines, investigations, or the suspension or revocation of their sponsor licence. Need Assistance with Your CoS? At Legend Consults, we help employers by: Applying for, or possessing, their Sponsor Licence Accurately allocating CoS and checking for compliance Responding to Home Office visits and enforcement action Legend Consults is a trusted immigration consultancy firm in the UK that specialises in helping employers understand what is Certificate of Sponsorship and obtain one for their employees. Our team is
Sponsor Licence Revoked? Key Steps to Recover
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 Why is a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Revoked Some of the most common reasons for the revocation are: Hiring skilled workers who are not eligible as per the visa requirements Not maintaining complete records of HR and SMS Notifying the Home Office about false information to mislead Not complying with the UKVI criteria for audits Getting involved in fraudulent activities or unethical business deals A revocation means your business can no longer employ foreign skilled workers in any visa category. It can damage the reputation of your business and result in work visa cancellation for other sponsored employees, who then need to get employment with another sponsor or leave the UK. The organisation will also not be able to apply for a new licence until the period set by the Home Office, which is about 12 months after the licence is revoked. Sponsor Licence Suspension vs Revocation People often don’t know the difference between the two and get confused. A sponsor licence suspension is a temporary block by the Home Office on your business hiring activities from outside the UK for not meeting the rules, and it requires future evidence before a decision. You are not eligible to issue new sponsorship certificates, but your current employees can work as usual. Your business will have to follow all rules and reply on time to show that the non-compliance was non-deliberate. If the Home Office believes your case, your sponsorship licence will be active again. The revocation comes after the final verdict, as per the evidence collected against your organisation for failing to meet standards and breaching protocols. Once the licence is revoked, you cannot issue any further visas, and your current employees must find another visa sponsor to avoid leaving the UK. The business must apply for a new licence after a cool-down period. What Happens After a Revoked Sponsor Licence When an organisation fails to respond quickly after getting the licence revoked: You will be removed from all public records related to licenced sponsors. All current employees will get a 60-day notice of curtailment. Your organisation will face hefty fines and court time. Your company’s reputation, recruitment, and employee trust will be damaged. In some cases, if the revocation was done after a proper investigation, it could also get the directors into trouble. They wouldn’t be able to apply for any further licences or get involved in the recruitment processes as directed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Here’s how much getting a sponsor licence costs now: UK Visa & Sponsorship fees increase in April 2025. Sponsor Licence Revoked: What To Do Now? It’s stressful to see your skilled worker or formerly Tier 2 sponsor licence revoked, but with the right strategy, action, and intention, you can protect your interests and help affected employees. Here’s what you should do: Read the letter carefully: Understand the Home Office’s reasons and the evidence behind the revocation verdict. Monitor the breaches to avoid them in the future and determine the best response if faced with similar issues. Notify the workers: They have a right to be notified earlier because their visas are at risk, so they should have enough time to explore other opportunities. Get Legal Advice: It is recommended to get professional help so that a solicitor can help determine whether you can challenge the revocation and how to prepare for the next steps. Our specialists will advise you better in light of your reasons, the workers who will be affected, and your conduct throughout the Home Office investigation. It is not recommended to reapply or communicate directly with the Home Office without consulting a legal professional. What Can You Do Legally? The primary legal remedy after your sponsor licence is revoked is a Judicial Review. If you believe the decision was not legal or fair, you can ask your legal team to advise you about seeking help with a review from the High Court. Your legal team can send a letter to the Home Office to ask about reconsidering the decision before they start the legal process. If you want to pursue these options, you must act quickly within the first three months of the revocation to avoid the trouble. When the legal strategies are not applicable, the next option for you is to meet the compliance and prepare for a reapplication by: Having a complete internal compliance audit through our support. Fixing all SMS and HR issues that red-flagged your licence. Monitor all the processes and apply the Sponsor Licence Compliance Checklist. How to Avoid Licence Revocation in the Future? Now that you are considering reapplying, there are specific points you need to meet to avoid having your application revoked in the future. Have a clear roadmap for all internal structures and right-to-work checks. Train the HR teams on compliance. Conduct inspections and audits to track SMS reporting, visa expiration, and the salary caps as per the immigration rules. Stay on track with the UKVI immigration rules. Get legal help to take care of audits and immigration compliance. If you work in sectors like healthcare or social care, it is important to avoid all breaches and follow rules as instructed by bodies like CQC or GLAA. Get Legal Help Getting a sponsor licence revoked is stressful, but there are plenty of alternatives to come back. Legend Consults can help you secure and rebuild your trust and compliance game whilst ensuring you are on the road to recovery. Once the Home Office revokes your sponsor licence, it must follow specific rules to ensure the decision is fair and transparent. It can be solid ground to challenge the revocation if it’s the reverse. Our team will review the decision made by the
Types of UK Student Visa | A Quick Comparison
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 UK Student Visa Categories UK student visa types and fees vary. Let’s compare. Disclaimer: Visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) can change. Always check the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website for the latest amounts before you apply. 1. Student Visa (Previously Tier 4 General Visa) The most common visa type is the Student Visa, designed for international students who wish to enroll in and study degree-level courses within the UK. You can bring dependants (your partner or children) to the UK only if you are either: A government-sponsored student on a course lasting over six months. Studying a full-time postgraduate research program (like a PhD or a Master’s by Research) that’s nine months or longer. Who Can Apply? Adults age 16 and above Have an offer from a recognised educational institute in the UK What is Required? Confirmation of Acceptance for the Studies (CAS) Evidence of funds to cover the tuition and student accommodation fees Completed English language test Duration It should match the duration of your course, maybe up to 5 years. Right to Work You are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours every week. Visa Fees As per the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), the application fees are £490, whereas the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is £776 for the current year. 2. Child Student Visa If your age is between 4 and 17, you will have to apply for a child student visa to come and study in independent schools within the UK. Who Can Apply? Children aged 4 to 17 Accepted into a UK school through a sponsor licence What is Required? Confirmation of Acceptance for the Studies (CAS) for the independent school Evidence of the consent of parents or guardians Proof of parents’ finances to show they can cover the school and living costs Duration It is usually the same as the course length, which is about 3 years. Right to Work There is no permission to work. Visa Fees Application fees are £490, whereas the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is £776 for the current year. 3. Short-Term Study Visa This visa type is ideal for students who wish to enroll in short courses, such as English language programs or other training programs. Who Can Apply? Adults over the age of 16 What is Required? Courses should be between 6 and 11 months. Immigration Health Surcharge or medical insurance proof is typically required. Restrictions Students are not allowed to bring dependants. Students are not allowed to switch their visa category. Visa Fees Application fees for the 6 to 11 months stay will be £200. 4. Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work Visa) The Graduate visa was formerly called Post-Study Work visa (PSW). This allows you to stay in the UK for up to 2 extended years (3 years for PhDs) after completing your degree. What is Required? Students should have completed their course successfully. The course must be completed in the student visa category. Right to Work You are allowed to find jobs based on your skill level. You are not permitted to extend your stay, but you can switch to another visa type. Visa Fees The application fee for the visa is £822; £1,035 for the current year for IHS. Changes in the Visa Process The UK government aims for efficient visa processing. Standard processing times for Student Visas, formerly Tier 4 visa, are usually around 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK and about 8 weeks for those made within the UK. Keep in mind that these times can vary. Applicants from the EU or EEA will also now need a visa to live and/or study in the UK. The Right UK Student Visa Choosing the correct visa type can be sometimes challenging. Here are some things to consider: Will your course be long-term or short-term? What is your age at the time of the application? Will you be applying for a Graduate visa in the future after completing the course? Which city would you live in? Cities like London will require high accommodation and healthcare costs. Whilst applying, you also need to consider various health insurance options to cover medical, dental, or other health expenses. You also need to check if your preferred insurance follows the Preferred Provider Organisation (PPO) rules. Tips to Get Your Application Accepted Here are some tips to ensure you get successful applications the first time: Start preparing the application 3 to 6 months before your chosen course starts. Ensure your documents are complete and create a checklist to double-check the passport, offer letter, and financial papers to verify that all information is accurate. Get yourself ready for the English test by booking your appointment in IELTS or TOEFL before the time to give yourself practice time. Keep an eye on all deadlines for your specific visa type. Always consult with your university or visa advisor. Make Your Visa Process Easy Don’t miss out on the opportunity to study in the UK due to the hassling application process. There are plenty of visa options that will certainly fit your career and goals. Legend Consults will assess your eligibility against the types of UK student visa, help with your documentation, and more. Have more questions about studying in the UK? Talk to our UK immigration lawyer today! Studying and living in the UK feels like a dream come true, with a number of globally known universities and rich diversity. If you plan to study in the UK, know that there are various options. Learn all the types of UK student visa in this blog, including the fees, processes, and others.
Sponsor Licence Suspended? Here’s What to Do Next
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 What Does a Sponsor Licence Suspension Mean? When the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has proof to believe that you have breached the rules as a sponsor or are engaged in actions that are against the public good, your licence may be suspended whilst an enquiry is started. During this time, you will not be able to: Assign new Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) Sponsor new migrant workers Get your pending visa applications approved All current migrant workers will not face any issues due to the suspension of the sponsor licence. If a worker has already been granted entry as per the CoS before the decision to suspension is taken, they will also be allowed to travel to the UK and work for your business. However, your licence should not be revoked entirely by the time they travel. Must Read! UK immigration system proposals via white paper released [12 May]. Common Reasons for Sponsor Licence Suspension The most common causes for the suspension of a licence include: The sponsor is not complying with its duties, including keeping records updated, reporting absences, etc. Not paying enough salary to migrant workers or not meeting the minimum criteria for the salary thresholds. Not maintaining the right-to-work check and allowing illegal employment. A poor HR and record-keeping system within the company. Not informing legal authorities about the changes in your company, such as acquisitions or mergers with other companies. Any unethical findings made regarding the sponsor or the company by the UKVI. Any flags of unethical business conduct by legal authorities like HMRC or the SRA. Employers are considered active participants in the UK’s immigration control, which is why even a slight breach can result in suspension by the UKVI. Check out our complete Sponsor Licence Guidance. What if You Ignore the Suspension Notice? Failing to comply with the orders and respond will be considered a direct refusal of the Home Office process, resulting in your licence being revoked. If you do not reply, UKVI will start the proceedings and inform you of the decision in writing. However, the licence is often revoked because UKVI does not have the basis for consideration to give you the A-rating or a B-rating, so they cancel the licence to give you a chance to appeal and return to duties. Suspension Is Made: What’s Next? Your response to the suspension notice will depend on the reason for the licence suspension. For example, if the suspension was applied because you failed to submit documents to UKVI, you must submit quickly, along with an explanation. However, if your licence was suspended after failing to comply with responsibilities, these must be rectified first and later filed with an explanation to UKVI about the non-compliance issue. Here are some steps you need to perform: Act Quickly: You will have 20 working days after the suspension notice to respond and explain. Failure to reply will minimise your chances of getting the suspension lifted. Review the Notice: The Home Office notice will outline the reasons for suspension. Read it carefully to identify the issues before replying. Take Legal Advice: Reputable companies like Legend Consults help you by reviewing the case and documents, identifying the issues, and creating a strategy to overcome them. Keep Documents Ready: All helpful documents must be ready, like employee records, contracts made, salaries given, evidence of HR policies, right-to-work check, and any audit trails of your business. Submitting the Representation: The response to UKVI should be free from all errors or inaccurate evidence. It should have a clear plan for how you will follow compliance. What will UKVI Do After Your Response? As per your receipt of the response, the Home Office will investigate your reply before making the final decision. It should be noted here that the suspension will remain intact until the decision. After the decision is made, UKVI may: Reinstate your licence and give you an A-rating or B-rating. If you decide to reinstate without any action, your suspension will be lifted immediately, and you can start hiring the migrants. If it is reinstated with a B-rating, your organisation will be required to meet the given standards. UKVI may keep your licence suspended and start further investigation of the case. The Home Office can revoke your licence when you fail to meet the sponsor duties, which is considered serious, such as when you provide false information about employees and they are found working illegally. In this case, UKVI will inform you in writing, and you will not be able to reapply for a sponsor licence for at least 12 months, also known as a cooling-off period. How to Avoid a Suspension? First, take preventive measures and ensure you meet sponsor duties and compliance. Following simple key duties can keep you on safe track. Here are some recommended ones: Update your SMS records daily and keep up-to-date contact details of the migrants, including their UK residents and telephone numbers. Make sure the salaries comply with the visa requirements. Do regular right-to-work checks of the employees and keep a trial audit. Ensure the HR policies are in place and that procedures are in compliance. Carry out internal audits to avoid unethical processes before the organisation is flagged. Stay updated with the UK immigration rules. Get Legal Help If you got your sponsor licence suspended, there are multiple ways to get the ban lifted and start working again. Legend Consults offers the proper support to identify the issues, resolve the suspension, and ensure that your business complies. Talk to our UK immigration lawyer today! Got your sponsor licence suspended? This means the Home Office has temporarily stopped your ability to sponsor foreign workers. Businesses in the UK, especially those working
Global Talent Visa Endorsement 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 Introduction to Global Talent Visa Global Talent Visa promises individuals with a specific skillset to live and work in the United Kingdom. For all researchers, engineers, artists, or tech-savvy individuals, this visa is your ticket to residency in the UK with fewer restrictions than other work visas. There are two stages to this process. First, you need to secure an endorsement from a recognised authority that backs the validity of your experience. Once this stage is complete, the individual can formally apply to the Home Office for the visa. In this blog, we will focus on the process to maximise your chance of success, endorsement bodies, who can apply, mistakes to avoid, and the documents required to apply for the procedure. Who Can Apply for a Global Talent Visa? This is a niche-based category visa for individuals over 18 years old with smart skills in academia or research, arts and culture, and technology. Candidates applying must be recognised as exceptional leaders in their niche or have the potential to become one. The number of applications eligible for the Global Talent Visa every year is not limited, and the rule also allows specific prize winners to bypass the endorsement stage. However, you will need to show high-profile awards (e.g., the Brit Award) to be allowed to bypass the endorsement stage; otherwise, every individual must secure the Global Talent Visa endorsement before applying for the visa. Endorsement Endorsements are only acceptable from authentic bodies that can demonstrate that the applicant is a stable leader with great talents or an emerging leader who promises a bright future in the following fields: Academia and Research: Endorsements are assessed by authentic bodies like the British Academy, the Royal Society, or the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Digital Tech: Renowned body Tech Nation assesses the applications for those who want to contribute to the digital niches like FinTech or Software Development. Arts and Culture: The Arts Council England and similar bodies working under legal authority give all endorsements. Applicants must provide evidence that includes achievements and expertise in their fields. High Profile Prizes Applications holding Home Office-specified high-profile prizes like the Booker Prize, Brit Award, or the Fields Medal are qualified to move to the next stage, bypassing the endorsements, and simply applying for the visa. You can check out the official prestigious prizes list of immigration rules for the Global Talent Visa on the UK government website. Relevant read: UK Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules [2025] Approved Endorsing Bodies for Global Talent Visa The approval from endorsing bodies for your promising future talent needs to be obtained before sending your application for Global Talent Visa consideration. The UK government has allocated multiple endorsing organisations for specific sectors, for example: UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) – For all research-related fields through job offers or fellowships. Arts Council England – For the arts and culture, and sub-endorsees: British Fashion Council (BFC) – For fashion design Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) – For architecture Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT) – For film and television Barclays Eagle Labs – For digital technology-related endorsements The Royal Society – For medical science related The British Academy – For social and human sciences The Royal Academy of Engineering – For engineering endorsements Every endorsing body has its own criteria and guidelines. You must finalise which endorsing body best suits your niche and the requirements for which you must be endorsed successfully. To check all the requirements listed by the endorsing bodies per the Home Office Global Talent visa guide, visit GOV.UK. To give you an example, applicants who get endorsement in the field of arts and culture must be professional enough to showcase their work in a way that can be presented globally. They should have been professionally active for the last five years and have a good track record in multiple countries, or even a promising track record in multiple countries. For academia or research applicants, the endorsement is carried out through peer review, which is provided as evidence of the contributions made in the field. The criteria for endorsement include holding a research grant approved by a UK funder, a fellowship, a job offer in academia, or research that meets UKRI requirements. If your skillset is not eligible for qualification through an endorsement body, you can still apply and be qualified for other visa types. How to Apply for Global Talent Visa Endorsement The process for Global Talent Visa endorsement involves two stages: Endorsement application Visa application In stage 1, applicants must get their endorsement from the relevant Home Office endorsing body and verify their talent and skills. All applications are submitted online. The applications for digital technology are also now assessed by the Barclays Eagle Labs. The endorsement decision relies on the criteria every assessing body sets, which follows the ‘Code of Practice for Endorsing Bodies’ listed on the Gov website. The applications are usually processed within 8 weeks. The timeline varies depending on the endorsing body and application. Be sure to apply months before your visa expires if you want to switch to this visa. The next stage is applying for the visa once you are approved by an endorsing body. Applications should be submitted within 3 months of receiving the endorsement. The visa fee is approximately £766, £561 for stage-1, and £205 for stage-2. Applications eligible to bypass the endorsement also pay the same fee. Supporting Documents Checklist for Endorsement The supporting documents are required by the endorsing bodies to determine that applicants are internationally recognised as leaders or have exceptional talent to become one. The checklist for the Global Talent visa depends on the applicant’s chosen field. You will need