Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence
The core corporate immigration licence enabling British businesses to hire skilled international professionals.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence is the primary vehicle through which British employers hire overseas talent and sponsor international graduates currently in the UK on Student or Graduate visas. Licensed employers can issue Certificates of Sponsorship across hundreds of eligible professional and technical roles.
Key Requirements & Highlights
- Covers roles skilled to RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or above.
- Salaries must meet general threshold (£38,700 under standard rules, with lower going rates for eligible switchers/new entrants).
- Enables recruiting directly from overseas via Defined CoS.
- Grants an A-rated sponsor licence on the Home Office public register.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- Role EvaluationIdentify eligible SOC 2020 occupation code and verify proposed salary meets the going rate.
- Licence ApplicationApply online with corporate documentation.
- SMS AllocationRequest annual Undefined CoS allocation and Defined CoS for overseas hires.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if a job is eligible for sponsorship?
Check the Home Office's published table of eligible occupations under Appendix Skilled Occupations to verify the 4-digit SOC 2020 code and applicable going rate.
Need Guidance on Your Application?
Priyanshu Decodes provides clear route explanations, document planning, and consultation calls. For regulated legal advice or formal Home Office representation, always consult an IAA-registered adviser or an immigration solicitor.