Self-Sponsorship
Sponsor licences can be used for lawful self-sponsorship, allowing business owners and entrepreneurs to sponsor themselves for a Skilled Worker visa. This route enables non-UK nationals to establish or expand their UK business while maintaining legal immigration status.
Regulatory Notice: Decision Making & Outcomes
Immigration outcomes are determined by the Home Office (UKVI) based on the specific facts of each case. Our role is to provide expert legal guidance and robust representation to maximise the prospects of success. Decisions involve the exercise of discretion by the Secretary of State, and applications are assessed against the Immigration Rules in force at the time.
Who This Is For
Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
Non-UK nationals who either own or control a UK registered company, or are establishing/expanding a business in the UK market.
Directors & Partners
Senior executives and business partners seeking to relocate to the UK to manage their operations.
Graduate Entrepreneurs
Students who have successfully completed their UK studies and are now on the Graduate route, running or planning to run their own business in the UK.
Our Legal Support
Self-sponsorship requires careful structuring to meet Home Office requirements. Our practice ensures your business setup and visa application comply with all regulations.
Company Formation
Advising on UK company structure, registration, and shareholding arrangements to support your sponsorship application.
Sponsor Licence
Obtaining a sponsor licence for your UK company with appropriate compliance systems and key personnel appointments.
Job Role & Salary
Structuring your role to meet skill level requirements and demonstrating appropriate salary levels for your occupation.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Requesting a Certificate of Sponsorship from the Home Office if not granted initially and allocating it to eligible employees for visa applications.
Visa Application
Preparing and submitting your Skilled Worker visa application once the COS is granted and sponsor licence is in place.
Self-sponsorship requirements – overview
The business must be genuine, actively trading, and able to support the roles it sponsors. Directors must demonstrate they are not undertaking prohibited activities or disguised employment. Each role must meet RQF Level 3 or above and satisfy salary thresholds. If you are sponsoring your dependents, the main applicant’s role must meet RQF Level 6 requirements. Home Office scrutiny is particularly high for self-sponsorship applications.
Alternative Routes
Depending on your business plans and investment capacity, the Innovator Founder route may offer a more suitable pathway with greater flexibility.
Compare Innovator Founder visaGet Started
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