Sponsor licence, also known as sponsorship licence, enables UK companies to hire foreign workers. As such, licenced UK businesses can issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to eligible non-UK nationals, whether located within the UK or outside the UK, which enable them to apply for a work visa (e.g. Skilled Worker Visa). Educational establishments, such as universities that intend to recruit international students, must also obtain a sponsor licence from the Home Office.
Sponsor licences are issued for a period of 4 years, at which point employers need to apply for renewal. The sponsor licence application process is strict, and keeping your licence requires committing to a rigorous compliance regime. This involves ensuring that your HR processes and procedures run smoothly and effectively in accordance with the Home Office’s requirements.
