It is difficult to sponsor foreign employees to work in the UK since immigration rules and regulations control the procedure. Employers wishing to attract talent from abroad must comprehend the sponsorship process. We’ll give a thorough rundown of the sponsorship procedure for employing foreign workers in the UK in this tutorial.

Determine Eligibility:

Before initiating the sponsorship process, employers must determine their eligibility to sponsor foreign workers. This involves meeting certain criteria set by the UK Home Office, including having a legitimate business operating in the UK, a clear track record of compliance with immigration laws, and the capacity to meet sponsorship duties.

Apply for Sponsor License:

The first step in sponsoring foreign workers is to apply for a sponsor license from the UK Home Office. This involves completing an online application form, providing supporting documents, and paying the required fee. The application process typically includes demonstrating the genuineness of the business, confirming compliance with immigration laws, and appointing key personnel responsible for managing sponsorship duties.

Demonstrate Compliance:

During the sponsor license application process, employers must demonstrate their ability to comply with sponsor duties and responsibilities. This includes maintaining accurate records of sponsored workers, reporting any changes or breaches of immigration rules, and cooperating with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) during compliance visits.

Receive Sponsor License:

Once the sponsor license application is submitted, it undergoes review by the UK Home Office. If the application is approved, the employer will receive a sponsor license, typically valid for four years. The sponsor license enables employers to issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to prospective foreign workers.

Issue Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):

With the sponsor license in hand, employers can issue CoS to foreign workers they wish to sponsor. The CoS contains important information, including the worker’s personal details, job role, and salary. Foreign workers must use the unique reference number on the CoS when applying for a visa to work in the UK.

Assist with Visa Application:

Once the foreign worker receives the CoS, they can proceed with their visa application. Employers may need to provide additional supporting documents, such as proof of sponsorship and evidence of the worker’s qualifications and experience. It’s essential to guide the foreign worker through the visa application process to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Compliance Monitoring:

Employers who have sponsored foreign workers are required to keep an eye on and uphold sponsor duties for the duration of the worker’s employment in the UK. This entails keeping UKVI informed of any modifications to the employee’s job status, making sure they make the required income thresholds, and quickly reporting any problems or violations.