What Is the UK Visa Sponsorship Process After Brexit?

After Brexit, the UK introduced a new points-based immigration system that applies to all foreign nationals, including EU citizens, seeking to work in the UK. Here’s how UK visa sponsorship works post-Brexit:

1. Skilled Worker Visa

• This is the primary route for foreign nationals, including both EU and non-EU citizens, to work in the UK.

• Sponsorship from a UK employer is required for this visa.

• To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must:

o Have a job offer from an employer who is an approved sponsor.

o The job must meet the required skill level (RQF level 3 or above, which is equivalent to A-levels).

o Be paid a minimum salary of £26,200 per year (or £10.75 per hour) or the ""going rate"" for the job, whichever is higher.

• Applicants must also score at least 70 points under the points-based system, which includes:

o Job offer from an approved sponsor (20 points).

o Job at an appropriate skill level (20 points).

o English language proficiency (10 points).

o Salary requirements and other criteria (20 points).

2. Global Talent Visa

• This visa is designed for highly skilled individuals in fields such as science, engineering, digital technology, or the arts.

• It does not require employer sponsorship, but you need an endorsement from a relevant UK body.

3. Health and Care Worker Visa

• This is a specific route for healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and social care workers.

• It offers reduced visa fees and faster processing.

• Sponsorship from a UK healthcare provider is required.

4. Temporary Worker Visas (Tier 5)

• There are temporary worker visas available under the Youth Mobility Scheme, Seasonal Worker Visa, and other temporary categories.

• Sponsorship is required from a UK organization.

5. Post-Brexit Sponsorship for EU Nationals

• EU nationals no longer have free movement in the UK post-Brexit. They need a visa and sponsorship, just like other foreign nationals.

• EU nationals already living in the UK by December 31, 2020, may have been eligible for the EU Settlement Scheme. Those who moved to the UK after Brexit must use the points-based immigration system.

6. Employer Responsibilities

• UK employers must be licensed sponsors to hire foreign workers. They need to apply for a sponsorship license from the UK Home Office.

• They must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the worker, which confirms the job offer and other details.

Conclusion:

Post-Brexit, UK visa sponsorship follows a points-based system requiring most foreign workers to secure a job offer from an approved UK employer. Employers must provide sponsorship through a Skilled Worker Visa or other specialized visas, depending on the role and industry. Both EU and non-EU nationals must meet the same requirements under this system.