In most cases, your right to remain in the UK when you are a migrant worker under the skilled worker category is tied to being employed by a sponsor. On the other hand, if you wish to sponsor yourself into the United Kingdom so that you can work here either because of having already set up or intending to establish a company in this country, there is a way forward. Now let us look at how one can self-sponsor as a skilled worker through a step-by-step approach.
Self-Sponsorship Sponsor License
For your business to allow you to work in the UK you must have registered it with the company’s house and hold a license of sponsorship allowing your business to sponsor alien employees. Applying for this type of license demands that your firm be an authentic lawful enterprising entity within the UK. The application process for the license requires that among other things you submit:
- Evidence of employers liability insurance must be at least £5 million.
- Proof of registration with HMRC.
- Latest Company Tax Return acknowledgement.
- HMRC VAT registration certificate.
- Proof of business premises ownership or lease.
- Most recent certified annual accounts.
- Latest corporate or business bank statement.
Ensure that these documents meet the formatting requirements outlined by the Home Office guidance.
Apart from the mentioned evidence, there are further specifics the company must provide in the application. It’s advisable to consult with business immigration experts for detailed guidance on the required documentation.
Key Roles in the UK Self-Sponsorship
Obtaining a sponsor license entails various responsibilities. Failure to adhere to these responsibilities may result in downgrading, suspension, or revocation of the license. Key personnel responsible for upholding these duties include:
- The authorizing officer is a Senior individual in charge of staff and the SMS system.
- Level 1 user is responsible for day-to-day license management.
- These roles can be fulfilled by one or multiple individuals. However, the level 1 user must be a British or settled employee, not a relative or partner of the immigrant. Additionally, He/she must meet the criteria stated by the Home Office.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Issuance
Once your company obtains a sponsor license, it needs to apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship. The CoS gives the terms of your employment. If you’re already in the UK, your company must assign an undefined CoS. If you’re outside the UK, a defined CoS is required and can be obtained through application.
When assigning a CoS, your company must select an occupation code aligning with your job description.
Skilled Worker Visa Application
With a sponsor license and a CoS in hand, you can proceed to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa and you must meet certain criteria:
- Aged 18 or over.
- A valid certificate of sponsorship.
- Genuine job offer.
- Paid Immigration Skills Charge.
- Job at an appropriate skill level.
- English language proficiency (CEFR Level B1).
- Salary meeting threshold requirements.
- Financial capability to support yourself.
Key Considerations:
- The Home Office ensures that your company sponsors you to fill a genuine vacancy.
- The job must meet a minimum skill level.
- You must be paid a salary meeting the required amount.
Please Note:
- The route to settlement on the Skilled Worker route is 5 years.
- You must earn a salary that meets the requirements to maintain compliance as a Skilled Worker.
- Skilled workers may undertake additional work outside their CoS, subject to certain conditions.
Depending on your visa and rights in the UK, setting up a UK business may be possible, though it requires careful consideration.
In conclusion, self-sponsoring as a Skilled Worker involves a meticulous process requiring compliance with various regulations and criteria. Seeking professional advice can greatly assist in navigating this pathway smoothly.