Registering as a Sponsor - Frequently Asked Questions

In order to sponsor EU and non-EU citizens to work in the UK under the Skilled Worker category, employers must be registered with the Home Office and hold a sponsor licence. 

Here are of the frequently asked questions:

How long does the UK Company need to be trading before applying for a sponsor licence?

There is no specified timeframe. Once a UK company has established a genuine trading presence in the UK, has registered with the tax authorities, set up a company bank account and obtained employers liability insurance they can apply.

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Can I apply for a sponsor licence if I don’t have anyone specific in mind that I wish to sponsor/employ?

The short answer is yes. However, the Home Office can apply a subjective ‘genuineness’ test and in our experience it would normally be best to apply for a sponsor licence once you have identified the individual you wish to sponsor/employ. If advertising is required, we recommend the 28 day advertising period has at least commenced but ideally come to an end.

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Will the UK company require a UK national to act as the main point of contact and take overall responsibility for the sponsor licence?

No, provided an individual is a senior employee or office holder of the UK company and is based and paid in the UK with permission to work, they can be of any nationality.

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How long will the sponsor licence be valid?

Initially 4 years but can be renewed thereafter.

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Will the Home Office visit our UK office?

The Home Office can visit any of your UK offices, branches or client sites at any time. These visits can be pre-arranged or unannounced. If your company has been trading for less than 18 months it is likely they will undertake a visit before they approve the licence. The Home Office considers the industry sector of a business when making a decision on whether or not to make a visit and we can provide tailored advice specific to your business.

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For more information about our immigration services please contact Nicolas Rollason at nrollason@kingsleynapley.co.uk or a member of the team.