UK Tier 2 Sponsor List: Approved Employers 2024

The Register of Licensed Sponsors, previously known as the Tier 2 sponsor list, is a public list of all UK organisations which hold a valid sponsorship licence. A sponsor licence is the permission needed for UK organisations to hire foreign national workers under specific visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker visa (formerly the Tier 2 Visa).

The Home Office maintains the list of sponsors to identify all employers that have the required permission to employ sponsored workers under routes such as the Skilled Worker visa, Health and Care Worker visa and other temporary work visas.

For job seekers looking to work in the UK, the Tier 2 Sponsor List is a valuable tool to help identify potential employers and employment opportunities in Britain. With a qualifying job offer from a licensed employer, foreign nationals can then apply for a sponsored work visa.

For employers, obtaining a sponsor licence and being included on the Tier 2 Sponsor List can support recruitment programmes and boost talent attraction.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the UK Tier 2 Sponsor List, both for UK employers looking to be featured on the list and for non-UK nationals to make full use of the list to support their job-seeking efforts.

 

Section A: What is the Tier 2 Sponsor List?

 

The Tier 2 Sponsor List is an official record of employers who have been granted a licence to sponsor non-UK nationals under the Skilled Worker route.

To be eligible to hire skilled workers from abroad, UK employers must apply for and be granted a sponsor licence, a process involving rigorous checks to ensure that the employer is genuine, capable of fulfilling sponsorship duties, and committed to maintaining compliance with UK immigration laws.

Once approved for a sponsor licence, these employers are added to the Tier 2 Sponsor List, allowing them to issue Certificates of Sponsorship to prospective employees from outside the UK. The Certificate of Sponsorship confirms that the job offered meets the required skill level and salary thresholds set by the UK government and is a mandatory requirement for Skilled Worker visa applicants.

The list is regularly updated to reflect the current status of sponsors, with employers being added or removed based on application approval and compliance with the rules. This ensures that only reputable employers can hire foreign workers so as to protect the rights of employees and maintain the overall integrity of the UK’s immigration system.

 

1. Benefits for Employers

 

For employers, being on the Tier 2 Sponsor List grants them the ability to access a global talent pool, which is often essential for filling specialised roles that cannot be met by the domestic workforce. This is particularly important in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and information technology, where there is a high demand for skilled professionals.

 

2. Benefits for Workers

 

For employees, the Tier 2 Sponsor List acts as a gateway to working in the UK under the Skilled Worker visa. Only employers listed as licensed sponsors can offer the necessary sponsorship required to apply for this visa. Therefore, for skilled workers aiming to relocate to the UK, identifying and applying to companies on the Tier 2 Sponsor List is the first step in securing employment and obtaining the appropriate visa.

Being employed by a Tier 2 sponsor provides workers with a level of security, as these employers are subject to strict regulations and regular audits by the UK Home Office. This oversight helps ensure that employees are treated fairly and that their rights under UK employment law are protected.

 

Section B: How Workers Can Use the Tier 2 Sponsor List

 

The Register of Licenced Sponsors is an extremely helpful tool for workers looking to find visa sponsorship in the UK, whether to come to Britain under a sponsored work route or to remain here as a sponsored worker by changing employer.

 

1. Information on the Tier 2 Sponsor List

 

The Tier 2 Sponsor List provides essential information that can be highly useful for job seekers aiming to secure employment in the UK under the Skilled Worker visa. The list includes key details as follows:

 

a. Organisation Name

This column lists the names of all employers who are licensed to sponsor foreign workers. Job seekers can use this to identify potential employers who are authorised to offer sponsorship for the Skilled Worker visa.

 

b. Town/City

The location of the organisation’s primary office is provided here. For those who have a preference for working in a specific area of the UK, this allows for targeted job searching based on location.

 

c. County

This further refines the geographic information, helping job seekers narrow down employers within a broader region or within specific counties.

 

d. Type & Rating

This section indicates the type of organisation (e.g., company, charity) and its rating. A-rated sponsors have met all requirements, whereas B-rated sponsors may be under additional scrutiny. Job seekers should consider focusing on A-rated sponsors for greater stability and security.

When a company’s sponsorship licence is approved, they are issued an A-rated sponsor licence. They are then permitted to issue Certificates of Sponsorship and hire eligible migrant workers.

The sponsorship rating can, however, be downgraded to a B-rating as a penalty if the Home Office finds the company has breached its sponsor licence compliance duties.

B-rated companies are not permitted to issue new Certificates of Sponsorship until they are upgraded back to an A-rating by the Home Office. Upgrades are only given where the company can show they have corrected and improved the issues which resulted in the downgrade.

As such, you will not be able to take up new employment and sponsorship by a company with a B-rated licence – unless and until they can achieve an upgrade back to the A-rating.

 

e. Route

The route column indicates the visa categories the organisation is licensed to sponsor under, such as the Skilled Worker or Global Business Mobility routes. Applicants should check this to ensure the job and sponsor permission aligns with their visa eligibility.

 

Sponsor Licence Type	Visa Categories Covered
Worker Sponsor Licence	Skilled Worker Visa Intra-Company Transfer Visa Minister of Religion Visa Sportsperson Visa
Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence	Creative Worker Visa Charity Worker Visa Religious Worker Visa Government Authorised Exchange Visa International Agreement Visa Seasonal Worker Visa

 

2. How to Use the Tier 2 Sponsor List to Find a Sponsor

 

Before you can apply for a sponsorship visa for the UK, you first have to be sponsored by a qualifying UK employer. You can use the Tier 2 Sponsor List as follows to help research and identify potential UK employers:

 

Step 1: Access the Official Tier 2 Sponsor List

Start by visiting the official UK government website, where the most up-to-date Tier 2 Sponsor List is published. The list is typically available as a downloadable Excel or CSV file.

 

Step 2: Download the List

Download the latest version of the Tier 2 Sponsor List to your computer. This file contains a comprehensive list of all approved employers, including their names, license numbers, and the type of visa they can sponsor.

 

Step 3: Filter the List by Industry or Job Sector

Open the downloaded file and use filtering tools (usually available in Excel) to narrow down the list to employers in your specific industry or job sector. This helps focus your search on organisations that are more likely to have job openings relevant to your skills.

 

Step 4: Search by Location

If you have a preferred city or region in the UK where you want to work, you can further filter the list by location. This is especially useful if you want to live in a particular area due to personal preferences or local opportunities.

 

Step 5: Research Potential Employers

Once you have a filtered list of potential employers, start researching each company. Visit their websites, review their job postings, and look for any current vacancies that match your skill set. This will help you identify companies actively hiring and assess their suitability for your career goals.

 

Step 6: Prepare and Tailor Your Job Application

When applying for jobs with these companies, ensure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the specific role and emphasise your eligibility for a Skilled Worker visa. Mentioning that you are aware of their status as a Tier 2 sponsor can demonstrate your understanding of the process and increase your chances of being considered.

 

Step 7: Apply Directly or Contact HR Departments

Apply directly through the company’s website or job portals. If no suitable openings are listed, consider reaching out to the company’s HR department to inquire about potential opportunities. Emphasise your skills and willingness to relocate, and ask if they can keep your application on file for future openings.

 

Step 8: Monitor for Updates

The Tier 2 Sponsor List is periodically updated, so it’s important to check back regularly or subscribe to updates to stay informed about any new employers added to the list or changes in the sponsorship status of existing employers.

 

Section C: How to Get a Sponsored Visa in the UK

 

To secure a Skilled Worker visa, finding a sponsor is only part of the process – you will also need to meet the relevant visa criteria and follow the correct application steps.

The Skilled Worker visa requires the applicant to meet strict eligibility criteria in relation to areas such as skill and salary level. If you are applying as a Skilled Worker, the role must require a skill level of RQ3 or above, pay at least the minimum salary and be listed on the eligible occupations list.

Roles that feature on the Immigration Salary List are also eligible for the Skilled Worker route, with more lenient requirements for applicants. The list is reviewed by the Migration Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations to the Government to add or remove jobs in line with changes in the UK labour market.

The most effective way to secure a Skilled Worker visa is to work closely with your prospective employer, particularly if they already hire sponsored workers and have processes in place to support you through the Home Office visa application.

Most applicants will also need to show they meet the English language requirement through one of the following:

 

a. As a citizen of a majority English-speaking country

b. Hold a degree which is equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s degree or higher, which was taught or researched in English.

c. Have passed a recognised English language test with at least a B1 score Council of Europe’s common European framework for language and learning.

d. Have previously met the English Language requirement during a grant of leave in the UK

 

Where maintenance funds are required as part of the visa application, most sponsors will guarantee their prospective employees’ maintenance for the first month of employment in the UK on the Certificate of Sponsorship. Only A-rated companies on the sponsor list are permitted to do this. Without a sponsor guarantee, the applicant must evidence access to their own funds.

If you are eligible under the Skilled Worker requirements, your sponsor can assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship. You then use this unique reference number to make your visa application. Note that CoS are non-transferable – either between candidates or employers.

 

Section D: How to Find a Job with a Tier 2 Sponsor

 

There are several steps to follow to find a job with a Tier 2 sponsor in the UK:

 

1. Identify Potential Employers

Start by downloading the latest Tier 2 Sponsor List from the UK government website. Filter the list to focus on companies in your industry or preferred location. Research these employers to learn about their business, company culture, and any current job openings.

 

2. Tailor Your Job Search

Focus your job search on roles that align closely with your skills and experience. Since only certain roles qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa, it’s essential to target positions that meet the skill and salary thresholds set by the UK government.

 

3. Prepare a Strong CV and Cover Letter

Your CV and cover letter should be tailored to the specific job and employer. Highlight your skills, qualifications, and experience that match the job description. Make it clear that you are aware of the employer’s status as a Tier 2 sponsor and that you are eligible for sponsorship.

 

4. Emphasise Your Eligibility for Sponsorship

In your cover letter or CV, mention your eligibility for the Skilled Worker visa and that you have researched the employer’s status as a licensed sponsor. This shows that you understand the process and are a serious candidate. For example, you might say, “I am eligible for the Skilled Worker visa, and I understand that [Company Name] is a licensed Tier 2 sponsor.”

 

5. Leverage Your Global Experience

If you have international work experience or education, make sure to highlight this in your application. UK employers value candidates who bring diverse perspectives and skills, particularly in industries that rely on global talent.

 

6. Apply Through the Right Channels

Whenever possible, apply directly through the company’s careers page or reputable job portals. Avoid sending unsolicited applications unless the company explicitly states that they accept them. Always follow the application instructions provided in the job posting.

 

7. Prepare for the Visa Sponsorship Process

Be ready to discuss the visa sponsorship process during interviews. Employers will likely ask about your current visa status and your understanding of the Skilled Worker visa requirements. Demonstrating that you are informed and proactive about the process can boost your chances of being hired.

 

8. Be Persistent and Patient

The application process can be competitive, especially with employers that regularly sponsor visas. Be persistent in your job search, and don’t get discouraged by initial rejections. Keep refining your applications based on feedback and continue to apply to multiple opportunities.

 

Section E: Benefits of Working for a Tier 2 Sponsor

 

Working for a Tier 2 sponsor in the UK offers numerous advantages for foreign national workers. These benefits go beyond simply securing a job; they provide stability, opportunities for career growth, and a clear path to long-term residency.

The advantages of working for a Tier 2 sponsor include:

 

1. Visa Security and Lawful Employment

One of the most significant benefits of working for a Tier 2 sponsor is the security it provides in terms of visa status. When an employer sponsors your Skilled Worker visa, it means they have met the UK government’s stringent requirements to hire international workers legally. This sponsorship not only allows you to work legally in the UK but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your visa is backed by a reputable organisation.

Additionally, the Skilled Worker visa is typically granted for a period of up to five years, offering long-term stability in your employment and residency status. This security is crucial for professionals looking to establish themselves in the UK without the constant worry of visa renewals or legal complications.

 

2. Pathway to Permanent Residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

Working for a Tier 2 sponsor can also pave the way to permanent residency in the UK. After five years of continuous employment under the Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, which grants you the right to live and work in the UK indefinitely without the need for further visa sponsorship.

Achieving indefinite leave to remain is a significant milestone as it not only provides greater job flexibility (allowing you to switch employers without affecting your residency status) but also brings you closer to full citizenship if that is your long-term goal.

 

3. Access to Comprehensive Employee Benefits

Many Tier 2 sponsors, particularly those in sectors like finance, healthcare, technology, and engineering, offer comprehensive benefits packages to their employees. These benefits can include health insurance, pension schemes, paid holidays, and other perks that contribute to a higher quality of life while living in the UK.

Additionally, some employers may offer relocation assistance, language training, or cultural orientation programs, making your transition to life in the UK smoother and more comfortable.

 

4. Stability and Legal Protections

Working for a Tier 2 sponsor ensures that you are employed in an environment that complies with UK employment laws and standards. This means you are entitled to the same legal protections as any other worker in the UK, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to appeal in cases of unfair treatment.

The UK government closely monitors Tier 2 sponsors to ensure they meet their obligations, which includes protecting the rights of their sponsored employees. This oversight provides an additional layer of security, ensuring that your employer is held accountable for maintaining ethical and legal employment practices.

 

5. Opportunities for Dependants

Another key benefit of the Skilled Worker visa is the ability to bring dependents with you to the UK. If you are employed by a Tier 2 sponsor, your spouse or partner and children can also obtain visas, allowing them to live, work, or study in the UK. This family-friendly aspect of the visa makes it easier for you to settle in the UK and provides additional peace of mind, knowing that your family is supported.

Furthermore, dependents can also apply for settlement after five years, providing your entire family with the opportunity to establish long-term roots in the UK.

 

6. Networking and Professional Growth

Being part of a Tier 2 sponsor organisation often provides access to professional networks, industry events, and training opportunities that can significantly boost your career. Whether through formal mentorship programs, conferences, or collaborative projects, you’ll have the chance to connect with industry leaders and peers, enhancing your professional growth and expanding your career horizons.

 

Section F: How Employers Can Get on the Tier 2 Sponsor List

 

Becoming a Tier 2 sponsor (now called the Skilled Worker visa route) is a mandatory requirement for most UK employers looking to hire skilled foreign nationals.

While an employer can start the recruitment process for a role without being on the Tier 2 sponsor list, they will need to apply for a sponsor licence and be listed on the Register of Sponsors before they can issue the Certificate of Sponsorship to a migrant worker.

 

1. Sponsor Licence Eligibility Criteria for Employers

 

To become a sponsor licence holder and to feature on the Tier 2 List of Sponsors, UK employers must meet the stringent eligibility criteria set by the UK Home Office, which include:

 

Table: Eligibility Criteria for Employers to Become a Sponsor

Criteria	Description	Evidence Required	Compliance Checks
Genuine Business Requirement	Employer must be legally established and operational in the UK	Registration certificates, trading address	On-site visits, audits
Financial Stability	Employer must demonstrate financial capability to support workers	Financial statements, bank records	Regular financial checks
Genuine Vacancy Requirement	The job must be a genuine vacancy meeting skill and salary thresholds	Job description, offer letter	Role evaluation
Key Personnel Appointment	Employer must appoint an Authorizing Officer and other key roles	ID documents, role descriptions	Personnel background checks

 

a. Genuine Business Requirement

The employer must be a legally established business or organisation operating in the UK. This includes being registered with the appropriate regulatory bodies, such as Companies House, and having a UK trading address.

 

b. Capability to Manage Sponsorship Duties

Employers must demonstrate that they have the necessary systems and processes in place to manage sponsorship responsibilities effectively. This includes keeping accurate records of sponsored employees, reporting certain events to the Home Office, and ensuring compliance with UK immigration laws.

 

c. Genuine Vacancy Requirement

The role for which the employer is seeking to hire a foreign worker must be a genuine vacancy. This means that the job must meet the skill level and salary requirements set by the UK government, and there must be a legitimate need for the position within the organisation.

 

d. Financial Stability

Employers must be financially stable and capable of supporting their sponsored employees. This may involve providing evidence of financial statements, tax records, and other documentation that proves the business’s ability to operate sustainably.

 

e. No History of Non-Compliance

Employers must have a clean history concerning immigration compliance. Any previous breaches of immigration law, such as hiring illegal workers or failing to comply with sponsorship duties, could lead to the rejection of the sponsorship application.

 

f. Appoint Key Personnel

Employers must appoint certain key personnel to manage the sponsorship process, including:

 

Table: Key Personnel Roles in Sponsorship Management

Role	Responsibilities	Required Skills	Importance
Authorising Officer	Overall responsibility for the company’s compliance with sponsorship duties	Senior management experience, compliance knowledge	Critical for legal compliance
Key Contact	Main point of contact with the UK Home Office	Communication skills, understanding of immigration processes	Ensures smooth communication with authorities
Level 1 User	Day-to-day management of the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)	IT proficiency, attention to detail	Essential for accurate record-keeping and reporting

 

i. Authorising Officer: A senior and competent person responsible for the actions of staff and representatives who use the sponsorship management system (SMS).

ii. Key Contact: The person who will act as the main point of contact with the UK Home Office.

iii. Level 1 User: The person responsible for the day-to-day management of the sponsorship process using the SMS.

 

2. Sponsor Licence Application Process

 

The sponsor licence application process involves rigorous checks to ensure that the employer is genuine, capable of fulfilling sponsorship duties and committed to maintaining compliance with UK immigration laws.

 

Table: Steps to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa

Step Number	Description	Required Documents	Estimated Timeframe
1	Secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor	Job offer letter, Certificate of Sponsorship	1-2 months
2	Prepare required documents	Passport, proof of funds, English proficiency	1-2 weeks
3	Apply online and pay the visa fee	Completed application form, payment receipt	1-3 months
4	Attend a biometrics appointment	Biometric data (photo and fingerprints)	1-2 weeks
5	Receive visa decision and travel to the UK	Visa approval notice	3-8 weeks

 

The application for a sponsorship licence is submitted online via the UK Home Office’s official website. During this process, employers need to provide detailed information about their business, the roles they intend to sponsor, and the systems they have in place to manage sponsorship duties effectively.

The sponsor licence application also requires employers to gather and prepare extensive documentation to support their application. This documentation typically includes proof of business registration, such as a Companies House registration certificate, financial documents like bank statements and audited accounts, details of the company’s organisational structure, and information about the key personnel who will be managing the sponsorship process.

 

Document Type	Description
Proof of Business Registration	Evidence that the business is legally established in the UK, such as a Companies House registration certificate.
Financial Documents	Documents showing the financial health of the business, such as bank statements, audited accounts, or annual reports.
Details of Key Personnel	Information about the individuals responsible for managing the sponsorship licence, including their roles and responsibilities.
Organisational Structure	A chart or document outlining the company’s structure, including management hierarchy and key departments.
Office Location Proof	Evidence of the business’s trading address in the UK, such as a lease agreement or utility bills.
HR Systems Evidence	Documentation demonstrating that the company has the necessary HR systems in place to manage sponsorship duties, such as record-keeping and right-to-work checks.
Compliance and Record-Keeping Policies	Written policies that detail how the business will comply with sponsor duties and maintain accurate records.
Proof of Genuine Employment Vacancy	Job descriptions and employment contracts that prove the role being sponsored is genuine and meets the required skill level.

 

The licence application fee varies depending on the size and type of the organisation, with smaller or charitable organisations paying a lower fee than larger companies.

Following the completion of the online application, employers must submit the supporting documents within five working days, either electronically or by post, as per the instructions from the Home Office.

The Home Office will then conduct compliance checks to verify the information provided in the application. These checks may include an on-site visit to assess the business’s operations, its ability to comply with sponsorship duties, and the authenticity of the vacancy for which the employer seeks to hire.

Once the Home Office has reviewed the application and conducted any necessary checks, a decision will be made. If the application is successful, the employer will be granted a sponsorship licence, which typically lasts for four years.

After being granted the licence, employers will gain access to the Sponsorship Management System, an online portal that allows them to manage their sponsored employees. Through the SMS, employers can assign Certificates of Sponsorship to foreign workers, report any changes in circumstances, and fulfil their ongoing sponsorship duties.

Maintaining a sponsorship licence involves continuous compliance with all immigration laws. Employers must conduct Right to Work checks, keep detailed records of sponsored employees, and report any relevant changes to the Home Office. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, including the possible revocation of the sponsorship licence.

 

Section G: Summary

 

The Tier 2 Sponsor List, known officially as the Register of Licensed Sponsors, is an official register maintained by the UK Home Office of employers authorised to sponsor skilled workers from outside the UK.

For most employers, obtaining a sponsor licence is a mandatory pre-requisite to access global talent, but it comes with significant responsibilities. Employers must ensure they meet stringent eligibility criteria, maintain compliance with immigration laws, and manage their sponsorship duties effectively. Failure to adhere to these requirements can result in penalties, including the revocation of the sponsorship licence, which can disrupt business operations.

For job seekers, the Tier 2 Sponsor List is a valuable resource for identifying potential employers who can legally offer sponsorship for a visa. However, there are risks involved, such as the possibility of an employer losing their sponsorship licence, which could jeopardise the worker’s visa status. It is also important for job seekers to ensure that the roles they are applying for meet the required skill level and salary thresholds set by the UK government.

 

Section H: Need Assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. We work with UK employers to support their talent mobility needs, including hiring workers from overseas under all UK immigration routes. For advice on how to get your organisation on the Register of Licensed Sponsors, contact us.

 

Section I: Tier 2 Sponsor List FAQs

 

What is the Tier 2 Sponsor List?
The Tier 2 Sponsor List, officially known as the Register of Licensed Sponsors, is part of the Skilled Worker visa route. It is an official record maintained by the UK Home Office that includes employers who are licensed to sponsor skilled workers from outside the UK, enabling them to apply for the necessary visa to work in the country.

 

How can I find employers on the Tier 2 Sponsor List?
You can access the most up-to-date Tier 2 Sponsor List on the official UK government website. The list is typically available as a downloadable Excel or CSV file, which you can filter by industry, location, or employer name to find potential employers.

 

What types of jobs qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa?
Jobs that qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa generally need to meet specific skill levels and salary thresholds set by the UK government. These roles typically require at least an RQF Level 3 qualification (equivalent to A-levels) and must meet the relevant minimum salary threshold or the ‘going rate’ for the role, whichever is higher.

 

How do I apply for a job with a Tier 2 sponsor?
Start by identifying employers from the Tier 2 Sponsor List who operate in your field. Tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific role, highlighting your skills and experience relevant to the job. Make sure to mention your eligibility for the Skilled Worker visa and apply directly through the employer’s website or reputable job portals.

 

What are the benefits of working for a Tier 2 sponsor?
Working for a Tier 2 sponsor provides visa security, access to comprehensive employee benefits, opportunities for career progression, and a pathway to permanent residency in the UK. Additionally, your dependents may also be eligible to live and work in the UK under your visa.

 

Can my spouse or children come with me if I work for a Tier 2 sponsor?
Under the Skilled Worker visa, your spouse or partner and children can apply as your dependants. This allows them to live, work, or study in the UK while employed by a Tier 2 sponsor.

 

How long is the Tier 2/Skilled Worker visa valid?
The Skilled Worker visa is typically valid for up to five years. After this period, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to live and work in the UK indefinitely without further visa sponsorship.

 

What happens if my Tier 2 sponsor loses their licence?
If your employer loses their sponsorship license, the UK Home Office will notify you, and your visa may be curtailed. You will usually be given 60 days to find another sponsor or leave the UK. It’s crucial to stay informed about your sponsor’s status and have a plan in place in case of such events.

 

How often is the Tier 2 Sponsor List updated?
The Tier 2 Sponsor List is updated regularly by the UK Home Office, typically on a monthly basis. Employers may be added or removed from the list depending on their compliance with the sponsorship requirements.

 

Can I switch jobs with a different Tier 2 sponsor?
You can switch jobs to another Tier 2 sponsor, but you will need to apply for a new Skilled Worker visa with the new employer as your sponsor. The new role must also meet the necessary criteria for visa sponsorship.

 

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship?
A Certificate of Sponsorship is an electronic document that your employer must issue to you as part of the visa application process. It contains your job details and confirms that the role meets the requirements for the Skilled Worker visa. You will need this certificate to apply for your visa.

 

What should I do if I’m unsure about the visa application process?
If you’re uncertain about any part of the visa application process, consider seeking advice from an immigration adviser. They can help ensure that you and your potential employer meet all the requirements, making the sponsorship and visa application process smoother.

 

Section J: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
Tier 2 Sponsor List	An official list maintained by the UK Home Office of employers who are licensed to sponsor skilled workers from outside the UK under the Skilled Worker visa.
Skilled Worker Visa	A UK visa category that allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for an approved employer (Tier 2 sponsor) in a role that meets specific skill and salary criteria.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	An electronic document issued by a licensed sponsor that confirms the job offer and role details, required for the Skilled Worker visa application.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	The status that allows an individual to live and work in the UK indefinitely without the need for a visa, typically after five years on a Skilled Worker visa.
Sponsor Licence	A licence issued by the UK Home Office to employers, allowing them to sponsor foreign workers for skilled roles in the UK.
Right to Work Check	A legal requirement for UK employers to verify that a worker has the legal right to work in the UK, including those on a Skilled Worker visa.
UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration)	The division of the UK Home Office responsible for handling visa applications, immigration control, and managing the UK’s immigration services.
UK ENIC (formerly NARIC)	The national agency responsible for providing information on the recognition and comparison of international qualifications with UK standards.
Authorising Officer	The senior person within a company responsible for overseeing the management of its sponsorship licence and ensuring compliance with immigration rules.
Sponsorship Management System (SMS)	An online portal used by licensed sponsors to manage their sponsored employees, including issuing Certificates of Sponsorship and reporting changes to the Home Office.
Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT)	A former requirement (now abolished) where employers had to prove that no suitable settled worker could fill a role before offering it to a foreign national.
UK Home Office	The government department responsible for immigration, security, and law and order, including managing the UK’s visa and immigration processes.
Right to Work	The legal right of an individual to work in the UK, which can be established through UK nationality, settled status, or an appropriate visa.

 

Section K: Additional Resources

 

UK Government: Register of Licensed Sponsors (Workers)
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/register-of-licensed-sponsors-workers
The official UK government list of all licensed sponsors who are permitted to hire skilled workers from outside the UK. This resource is essential for job seekers looking for sponsorship.

 

UK Government: Skilled Worker Visa
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Comprehensive guidance on the Skilled Worker visa, including eligibility requirements, application process, fees, and other important information for prospective applicants.

 

UK Home Office: Visa Sponsorship for Employers
https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers
Detailed information for UK employers on how to apply for a sponsorship license, including eligibility criteria, responsibilities, and the application process.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Contact Information
https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk
Direct contact information for UK Visas and Immigration, including options for both phone and email inquiries regarding visa applications and sponsorship.

 

UK ENIC (formerly NARIC)
https://www.enic.org.uk/
The official UK agency responsible for recognising and comparing international qualifications. This service is particularly useful for those needing to validate their foreign qualifications in the UK.

 

JobServe UK
https://www.jobserve.com/gb/en/Job-Search/
A leading job search platform in the UK, featuring job postings that may include sponsorship opportunities for international applicants.

 

Indeed UK
https://www.indeed.co.uk/
A recognising job search engine in the UK, where you can filter job listings by employers offering visa sponsorship.

 

UK Government: Certificate of Sponsorship Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sponsor-a-skilled-worker-guidance-for-employers/certificates-of-sponsorship
Official guidance on Certificates of Sponsorship, detailing how employers should issue them and what information they must contain.