Who can be sponsored
Sponsorship is not limited to overseas hires. Businesses can sponsor eligible people already in the UK where switching rules allow it, including some students and graduates.
Resource Guide
Sponsor Licence Application Guide
A sponsor licence is required for most organisations that want to issue Certificates of Sponsorship and employ workers who need sponsorship. This guide explains eligibility, documents, key personnel, and ongoing compliance duties.
Business15 min read
Sponsor licence eligibility
- The organisation must be genuine and operating lawfully in the UK.
- Roles must be genuine vacancies and not created only for immigration purposes.
- Robust HR systems must be in place to monitor and report sponsorship events.
- Suitable key personnel must be appointed for sponsor management.
Supporting documents
Most businesses must submit a minimum supporting document set. Additional mandatory evidence may apply to specific organisation types, including regulated entities, start-ups, charities, and franchise businesses.
- Company formation and trading evidence.
- Tax and payroll records where applicable.
- Premises and insurance evidence where applicable.
- Any route-specific or sector-specific documents required by current guidance.
After licence approval
- Maintain accurate records for each sponsored worker.
- Monitor attendance and employment conditions.
- Report relevant changes via the Sponsor Management System (SMS).
- Prepare for compliance checks and possible Home Office audits.
Risk of non-compliance
Failure to meet sponsor duties can lead to licence downgrading, suspension, or revocation. This can impact sponsored workers and future recruitment plans.
This guide is general information and not legal advice for specific facts. Immigration rules change regularly; always check the latest Home Office guidance before applying.