UKVI Sponsor Licence

One of the most innovative pathways for individuals looking to live and work in the UK is the Self-Sponsorship route. Unlike traditional visa options that require a pre-existing UK employer to act as a sponsor, this route empowers entrepreneurs and skilled professionals to establish or invest in their own UK company and then use that business as the sponsoring organisation.

In practice, this means that instead of relying on an external employer, you have the freedom to create a genuine UK business that can apply for a Sponsor Licence. Once the licence is granted, the company can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to you, enabling you to apply for a Skilled Worker visa.

This route is particularly attractive for:

• Entrepreneurs and business owners who want independence and control over their career path.

• Overseas professionals with a viable business idea who want to relocate to the UK while actively contributing to its economy.

• Skilled individuals who may not have a UK job offer but are able to create their own opportunity through business.

Key advantages include:

• Independence and flexibility: You are not tied to an external employer’s restrictions.

• Business growth potential: You can build and expand your UK company while lawfully residing in the country.

• Family inclusion: You can bring eligible dependants (spouse/partner and children) with you to the UK.

• Pathway to settlement: Time spent in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa can count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Eligibility typically requires demonstrating that your UK company is genuine, has a credible business plan, and can meet the compliance duties required of any sponsor licence holder. You will also need to meet the Skilled Worker visa requirements, such as salary thresholds and role suitability.

With the right preparation, the Self-Sponsorship route provides a unique opportunity for motivated individuals to gain both immigration stability and entrepreneurial freedom in the UK.

Eligibility

UK Company Requirements:

• Must be a genuine and active UK entity (can be newly incorporated or an existing business).

• Must have a real business plan showing commercial viability, growth potential, and ability to create jobs.

• Must apply for and secure a Sponsor Licence from the Home Office.

• Must appoint the required Key Personnel for the Sponsor Management System (SMS):

  • Authorising Officer (AO): A senior person responsible for compliance.

  • Key Contact: Main link between the company and the Home Office.

  • Level 1 User: Responsible for daily SMS management (often the applicant themselves).

• Must have proper HR and compliance systems in place to meet Home Office sponsorship duties (record-keeping, reporting changes, right-to-work checks).

Individual (Self-Sponsored Applicant) Requirements

• Must hold a role within the UK company that meets Skilled Worker visa criteria.

• Job role must be on the list of eligible Skilled Worker occupations.

• Must meet the salary threshold (normally £26,200 per year or £10.10 per hour, though some exceptions apply such as shortage occupations, new entrants, or PhD-qualified roles).

• Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English (proven through an approved English test or recognised qualification).

• Must demonstrate they can financially support themselves and any dependants upon arrival, unless the company certifies maintenance.

• Cannot have certain criminal convictions or breaches of UK immigration law.

Application Process Requirements

• Incorporate or register the UK business.

• Prepare the business plan and compliance framework.

• Apply for the Sponsor Licence and receive approval.

• Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the applicant.

• Apply for the Skilled Worker visa with supporting evidence (identity, CoS, English ability, financial proof, etc.).

Benefits of Meeting Eligibility:

• Ability to sponsor yourself legally under UK law.

• Control over your own business and employment.

• Eligibility to bring dependants (partner and children).

• A pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.

• Opportunity to eventually apply for British citizenship (subject to residency and other requirements).

Self Sponsorship Route

Ready to apply or need guidance? Get in touch today.