Visa Types
UK Sponsors and Sponsorship - Understanding Requirements
In the UK, a sponsor (usually an employer) with a license supports a migrant worker's visa application. This ensures the worker has the needed skills and the job is legitimate. It benefits both employers (accessing talent) and workers (easier visa process).
For more information, please click here ( https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas )
Important:
- Your ability to stay in the UK depends on your visa status.
What Happens:
- Job & Stay at Risk: You might need to leave your job and the UK unless you find a new sponsor or qualify for a different visa.
- Grace Period: You'll usually have 60 days (or remaining visa time) to find a new sponsor, apply for a new visa, or leave the UK.
Other Situations:
- Your visa can also be affected if your sponsor:
- Has their license suspended.
- Doesn't renewtheir license.
- Is taken overby another company (new company needs a license).
What to Do:
- Check Visa Validity: See how much time remains on your current visa.
- Explore Options: Research alternative visa categories you might qualify for.
- Seek Guidance: Talk to an immigration advisor about your specific situation.
For more information, please click here
What it is:
- Permission to hire workers from outside the UK (including EU citizens after 2020).
Who needs it:
- Almost all employers need a sponsor license to hire foreign workers. (Exceptions: Irish citizens, those with settled status in UK)
Getting a Sponsor License:
- Check eligibility (business & job).
- Choose license type (Worker or Temporary Worker).
- Appoint sponsorship managers within your company.
- Apply online and pay the fee.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor sponsored workers.
- Maintain accurate sponsorship records.
- Report any changes to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
- Pay the Immigration Skills Charge (visa application fee).
Benefits:
- Access a wider talent pool.
- Sponsor skilled workers for specific roles.
Things to Consider:
- New regulations coming in Spring 2024 (salary threshold increase).
- Application processing time.
- Ongoing sponsorship management duties.
For more information, please click here
What it is: An online portal for organizations sponsoring workers or students for UK visas.
Who uses it: Employers with a sponsor license and educational institutions sponsoring international students.
Key Functions:
- Manage your sponsor license (renewal, adding routes)
- Issue Certificates of Sponsorship (workers) or Confirmations of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) (students) to your sponsored individuals.
- Report changes in your sponsored workers or students' circumstances (e.g., job change, leave of absence).
- Report any changes to your own organization (ownership, location).
Access: Requires a designated user ID and password assigned by your organization. (Level 1 or Level 2 users)
Security:
- Never share your login credentials.
- Accounts get locked after repeated incorrect login attempts.
Benefits:
- Streamlined sponsorship management process.
- Secure online recordkeeping.
- Efficient communication with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
For more information, please click here