UK Sponsor Licence Guide: Eligibility, Costs, Application Process & Compliance

1
UK Sponsor Licence Your Questions Answered
A UK Sponsor Licence allows UK-based employers to
hire eligible foreign workers.
The SmartMove2UK offers tailored support
throughout the entire process.
by SmartMove2UK Immigration
2
Who Needs a Sponsor Licence?
Hire Foreign Employees
1
UK-based employers hiring foreign employees.
Hire Immigrants
2
Businesses hiring immigrants already in the UK.
Certificate of Sponsorship
3
Assign CoS for Skilled Worker visas.
Unpaid Roles
4
Needed even for unpaid charity roles.
3
Eligibility Requirements
UK Presence
Lawful Operation
No Criminal Convictions
Must have a UK presence.
Operate lawfully in the UK.
No unspent criminal convictions.
4
How to Apply
Online Application
Submit online form.
Supporting Documents
Provide evidence of UK trading presence.
HR Systems
Show compliant HR systems.
5
Key Personnel Roles
Authorising Officer
Key Contact
Level 1 User
Main point of contact with UKVI.
Manages licence day-to-day.
Responsible for staff actions.
6
Sponsor Licence Costs Duration
Application Cost
Licence Duration
Medium/large 1,476. Small/charity 536.
Valid as long as eligibility is met.
7
Sponsor Licence Duties
Reporting Changes
Report worker circumstance changes.
Absence Reporting
Report absences without permission.
8
Compliance Visit
Inspection by the Home Office.
Verifies business genuineness and compliance.
Can be digital or on-premises.