Author: HM Government
How to become a sponsor
- check that the people you want to hire will meet the requirements for coming to the UK for work
- check your business is eligible
To apply, you will need to:
- choose the type of skilled worker licence you want to apply for
- put appropriate systems in place to act as a sponsor
- apply online and pay the fee
People coming to work in the UK will need to meet certain requirements:
- A job offer from an approved sponsor
- That job offer must be at the required skill and salary level
- They must speak English at the required level
- You will need to apply to be a licensed sponsor
- You’ll usually have a decision within 8 weeks
- Being a sponsor allows you to recruit skilled workers globally for 4 years
- Be prepared, apply now
Who you can hire as a sponsor
- the minimum skill level will be set at RQF3 (equivalent to A level)
- the minimum salary threshold will be the higher of £25,600 or the ‘going rate’ for that job – some employees may be paid less than £25,600, for example if their job is in a shortage occupation
- any applicants from outside the UK must also meet English language requirements
If the above requirements are met and you are a licensed sponsor, you will be able to sponsor their application to come to the UK to work.
EU citizens you already employ
Further information
Read the employer guide on GOV.UK
Sign up to receive email updates
Read the full sponsorship guidance
