Skilled Worker Licence
Learn how to obtain a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence to legally employ skilled overseas talent in the UK.
Hiring skilled overseas talent can drive your business forward, but navigating UK immigration rules is crucial. A Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence allows your business to legally sponsor qualified workers from abroad. Understanding the types of licences, requirements, and application process is essential for success. From long-term employment to temporary roles, choosing the right licence matters. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires robust HR systems and compliance checks. Ensuring your business meets these standards can prevent delays and refusals. With the right guidance from UK Immigration Consultant, securing a sponsor licence can be a seamless process.
Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence: A Complete Guide for UK Businesses
Before your business can legally sponsor skilled overseas workers in the UK, you must apply for and be granted a Sponsor Licence by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Types of Sponsor Licences
he type of licence you need depends on the nature and duration of the employment you wish to offer. Licences are categorised as:
Worker Licence – For long-term employment.
Temporary Worker Licence – For short-term or temporary employment.
You may apply for a licence that covers either or both categories, depending on your business needs.
Skilled Worker Licence
A Skilled Worker Licence enables your organisation to hire overseas professionals for long-term roles of up to six years. The licence is further divided into the following categories:
Skilled Worker – For roles that meet specific suitability criteria and required skill levels.
Intra-Company Visas – For multinational companies transferring employees or graduate trainees to the UK, including:
Intra-Company Transfer
Intra-Company Graduate Trainee
Minister of Religion – For individuals working within religious organisations.
Sportsperson – For elite athletes and coaches planning to be based in the UK.
Temporary Worker Licence
A Temporary Worker Licence allows businesses to employ overseas workers on a short-term basis. Categories include:
Creative or Sporting Worker
Sportspersons (up to 1 year)
Entertainers or artists (up to 2 years)
Charity Worker – For unpaid roles within charitable organisations (up to 1 year).
Religious Worker – For roles within religious organisations (up to 2 years).
Government Authorised Exchange Worker
Work experience (1 year)
Research projects or practical training (up to 2 years)
International Agreement Worker – For roles governed by international law, such as employees of overseas governments.
Main Requirements for a Worker Sponsor Licence
To obtain a Worker Sponsor Licence, your business must prove to UKVI that:
It is a genuine organisation legally operating in the UK.
It has proper HR systems and processes in place.
There is a genuine need to hire overseas workers.
How to Apply for a Worker Sponsor Licence
Complete the Online Application
Submit the application through the UKVI portal.Submit Supporting Documents
Provide the required documentation within five working days of the online submission. This may include:Bank statements
VAT certificate
PAYE reference number
Employer’s liability insurance certificate
Proof of business premises (lease or ownership documents)
Annual accounts
Council registration (for certain sectors like hospitality)
Registration with regulatory bodies (e.g., CQC for care providers)
Provide Company Information & Justification
Explain your business activities and justify the need for a sponsor licence.
How We Can Help
At UK Immigration Consultant, we support businesses through every step of the sponsor licence process. Our services include:
Eligibility Assessment – Checking if your business meets the UKVI criteria.
Document Guidance – Helping you prepare and submit accurate documentation.
HR System Review – Assisting in aligning your HR policies with UKVI compliance standards.
Ongoing Compliance Support – Ensuring your business understands and implements right-to-work checks, record-keeping, and prevention of illegal working.
