Are you planning to hire someone from another country? You must get a sponsorship license first. This license helps your company bring skilled workers from overseas. It is very important if the person you want to hire is not a citizen or does not already have the right to work in the country.
In this article, we’ll explain how to apply for sponsorship license in a way that is easy to understand. You don’t need to be a lawyer or expert to follow these steps. Let’s begin.
What Is a Sponsorship License?
A sponsorship license is a legal document. It gives your business the right to sponsor foreign workers. This means your company can give jobs to people from other countries. But you can’t do this without permission from the government. The license shows that your business is trusted and follows the rules.
With this license, you can give out Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS). These are needed for your workers to apply for work visas. It also shows that your business takes responsibility for the worker while they are employed with you. That includes making sure they are working in the job listed on the visa and reporting any changes.
There are different types of licenses depending on the workers you want to sponsor. The most common one is for skilled workers, but there are others for temporary workers too.
Who Needs a Sponsorship License?
If your business wants to hire someone from another country who doesn’t already have permission to work, then you need a license. This includes full-time workers, part-time staff, and sometimes even volunteers or interns. The license is needed before you can issue any visa-related documents.
Small businesses, large companies, schools, and even charities may need a sponsorship license. It doesn’t matter how big or small your organization is. If you want to bring someone from overseas legally, this is a must.
Even if the job is only for a short time, the law still requires you to have this license. So, it’s better to apply early and be ready when you find the right person for the job.
Requirements for a Sponsorship License
Before you apply, you need to meet some rules. First, your business must be legal and based in the country where you are applying. It must also be registered with the correct business authorities and must have real working offices.
You also need to show that your business has a good history. That means no illegal activity, no past visa rule-breaking, and no serious debt or unpaid taxes. If your business has had trouble before, it may be harder to get approved.
You must also have people in your company who will manage the license. These people are called the Authorising Officer, Key Contact, and Level 1 User. They help keep things in order and report changes when needed.
Documents You Need to Apply
When you apply, you must send the correct documents. If anything is missing or incorrect, your application can be delayed or refused. So, it’s important to double-check.
Some common documents include your business registration papers, tax records, proof of address, and details about your company bank account. You may also need to send recent payslips or contracts to show that you are already employing people.
Each case is a bit different, so the exact papers needed can change. Always read the latest guide from the immigration office before applying. Or you can work with legal experts like Imperial & Legal who can help.
How to Apply for a Sponsorship License
- Check if you qualify: Make sure your company is eligible. You must be a real business with legal documents.
- Prepare your documents: Gather all required papers. Scan them clearly. Make sure names and addresses match.
- Choose your license type: Most companies choose the Skilled Worker route. Pick what fits your business best.
- Assign roles in your business: Pick who will be the Authorising Officer, Key Contact, and Level 1 User.
- Apply online: Go to the government’s visa and immigration site. Fill out the application form and upload your documents.
- Pay the fee: The cost depends on your company size. It’s around £536 for small sponsors and £1,476 for large ones.
- Wait for a decision: It usually takes 8 weeks. Sometimes it’s faster if you pay for priority service.
Make sure you answer all questions honestly. Mistakes or false information can lead to refusal.
What Happens After You Apply?
After you send in your application, the government checks your documents. They may contact you for more information. They may also visit your office to make sure your business is real and follows the rules.
If everything looks good, you’ll get your license. You will then appear on the official list of licensed sponsors. After that, you can start issuing Certificates of Sponsorship to your workers.
But getting the license is just the beginning. You must keep records, report changes, and follow all immigration rules. If you don’t, your license can be taken away.
Responsibilities of a Sponsor
When you become a sponsor, you take on some duties. You must keep your workers’ details updated. If they leave the job or change address, you must tell the authorities.
You must also make sure your workers are doing the job listed on their visa. If they stop working or break visa rules, you must report it right away. This keeps your license safe.
Keep all records safe and ready for checks. This includes payslips, contracts, and ID copies. The government can inspect your business anytime.
How Long Does the License Last?
The license lasts for four years. After that, you can apply to renew it. If your business has followed the rules, renewal is usually simple.
Don’t forget the renewal date. If your license expires, you can’t sponsor anyone. That could delay your hiring or cause visa problems.
Keep a reminder in your calendar and start the renewal process early. It’s always better to stay ahead.
How Imperial & Legal Can Help
Applying for a sponsorship license can be confusing. One small mistake can cause delays or rejection. That’s why many smart businesses get help from legal experts.
Imperial & Legal has helped many companies apply for and manage sponsorship licenses. They can check your documents, guide you through the forms, and make sure your business is ready.
With expert help, you save time, avoid stress, and increase your chances of success. It’s a smart choice if you want peace of mind.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to get a sponsorship license?
It usually takes 8 weeks. If you pay more, you may get a faster decision.
2. How much does it cost to apply?
Small businesses pay about £536. Large businesses pay £1,476.
3. Can I apply without help from a lawyer?
Yes, you can. But legal help makes things easier and safer.
4. What if my application is refused?
You can apply again, but first fix the reason it was refused.
5. Can a small company apply for a license?
Yes, small companies can apply if they meet all the rules.
Conclusion
Now you know how to apply for sponsorship license simply. It’s not too hard if you follow the steps. Get your documents ready, apply online, and follow the rules.
Remember, you are taking a big step. A sponsorship license helps your business grow and find new talent from all over the world. Just make sure you understand your duties and stay legal.
Need help? Talk to Imperial & Legal to make the process faster and safer. They can guide you every step of the way.
