Introduction
A UK Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a vital document required for non-UK nationals applying for a work visa under the UK’s points-based immigration system. Employers must obtain a sponsor license to issue a CoS, which serves as proof that the foreign worker has a legitimate job offer in the UK.
In this guide, we will explain the step-by-step process of obtaining a UK Certificate of Sponsorship, including eligibility criteria, application requirements, and employer responsibilities.
What is a UK Certificate of Sponsorship?
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document issued by a UK employer who is registered as a sponsor with the Home Office. This document contains a unique reference number that the visa applicant must use when applying for a UK skilled worker visa or other sponsored work visas.
There are two types of Certificates of Sponsorship:
- Defined CoS – For workers applying from outside the UK.
- Undefined CoS – For workers already in the UK switching to a sponsored work visa.
Who Needs a UK Certificate of Sponsorship?
A UK Certificate of Sponsorship is required for:
- Skilled Worker Visa applicants
- Health and Care Worker Visa applicants
- Temporary Worker Visa applicants (e.g., Seasonal Workers, Creative Workers)
- Intra-company Transfer Visa applicants
- Ministers of Religion Visa applicants
- International Sportsperson Visa applicants
How to Obtain a UK Certificate of Sponsorship
Step 1: Employer Applies for a Sponsor License
Before an employer can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, they must obtain a UK Sponsor License. To qualify, employers must:
- Prove they are a legitimate business.
- Show they have a genuine need for hiring foreign workers.
- Demonstrate compliance with UK immigration laws.
Step 2: Employer Completes the Certificate of Sponsorship Application
Once the employer has obtained a sponsor license, they can apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship through the Sponsorship Management System (SMS).
Step 3: Assigning the Certificate of Sponsorship
The employer assigns the CoS to the employee by entering their details into the system, including:
- Job title and description
- Salary details
- Start and end date of employment
- Unique CoS reference number
Step 4: Employee Uses the CoS for Their UK Visa Application
The foreign worker must enter the CoS reference number when applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa or another relevant visa.
UK Certificate of Sponsorship Requirements
To issue a CoS, employers must ensure:
- The job meets the minimum skill and salary threshold.
- The applicant meets the English language requirement.
- The role is listed on the Shortage Occupation List (if applicable).
- The employer has sufficient CoS allocation from the Home Office.
Cost of Obtaining a UK Certificate of Sponsorship
The cost of issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship varies depending on the type of visa:
- Skilled Worker Visa: £199 per certificate
- Temporary Worker Visa: £21 per certificate
Employers also need to pay the Immigration Skills Charge, which ranges from £364 to £1,000 per year, depending on the size of the business.
UK Certificate of Sponsorship Processing Time
The typical processing time for issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship is 1-2 working days. However, obtaining a sponsor license can take 8-12 weeks, unless the employer opts for the fast-track service, which speeds up the process.
Responsibilities of UK Sponsors
Employers issuing a UK Certificate of Sponsorship have the following responsibilities:
- Ensure employees comply with UK immigration laws.
- Keep accurate records of sponsored workers.
- Report any changes in employment status to the Home Office.
- Conduct regular compliance checks to maintain sponsor status.
Common Reasons for UK Certificate of Sponsorship Refusal
- Employer does not have a valid sponsor license.
- Job role does not meet the Skilled Worker Visa requirements.
- Incorrect information on the CoS application.
- Employer has a history of non-compliance with immigration laws.
What to Do if Your CoS Application is Refused?
If your Certificate of Sponsorship application is refused:
- Review the refusal reasons provided by the Home Office.
- Correct any errors and reapply.
- Seek legal assistance from an immigration solicitor.
- Consider appealing the decision if possible.