What Is a UK Sponsorship Visa and Available Types?

A sponsorship work visa requires that your employer (sponsor) in the destination country officially supports your visa application. The employer must have a license or approval to sponsor foreign workers and issues you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This document proves you have a legitimate job offer, which is essential for your visa approval.

UK Work Visas Sponsored by Employers:

1. Skilled Worker Visa

• Most common work visa.

• Requires a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor workers.

• Job must be on the UK’s eligible occupations list.

• Points-based system considering salary, skills, English proficiency.

2. Intra-Company Transfer Visa

• For employees transferring within the same company from overseas offices to the UK.

• Employer sponsorship required.

3. Health and Care Worker Visa

• For medical professionals sponsored by the NHS or other approved employers.

• Similar requirements to the Skilled Worker visa but with reduced fees and faster processing.

4. Temporary Worker Visas (T5 category)

• For temporary or seasonal work (charity workers, creative jobs, government authorized exchange).

• Requires sponsorship by a licensed sponsor.

Other UK Work-Related Visas:

• Graduate Visa: Allows recent international graduates from UK universities to work or look for work after studies (no sponsorship needed).

• Global Talent Visa: For highly skilled leaders or potential leaders in fields like science, arts, or technology (no job offer needed but requires endorsement).

Summary:

• A sponsorship work visa requires your UK employer to support and sponsor your visa.

• The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for most foreign workers coming to the UK.

• Other specialized visas exist depending on your situation and job.