Introduction

The UK Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) employer requirements are a critical aspect of hiring foreign workers under the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa and other work visa categories. Employers must meet specific eligibility criteria, obtain a Sponsor License, and comply with UK immigration laws to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to a worker.

This article provides a detailed guide on the UK CoS employer requirements, covering eligibility, compliance, financial obligations, and the process for issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship in 2025.

What is a UK Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic record assigned to a foreign worker by a licensed UK employer. It acts as proof that the worker has a valid job offer that meets the Skilled Worker Visa requirements.

Types of Certificates of Sponsorship

1. Defined CoS – For workers applying from outside the UK under the Skilled Worker Visa.
2. Undefined CoS – For workers already in the UK who are switching to or extending a work visa.

UK Certificate of Sponsorship Employer Requirements

To issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, UK employers must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Hold a Valid UK Sponsor License

Employers must obtain a Sponsor License from the UK Home Office to hire overseas workers. To qualify, they must:

• Be a legally registered business in the UK.
• Prove they have a genuine need to hire foreign workers.
• Demonstrate robust HR and recruitment processes to monitor sponsored employees.
• Pay the required Sponsor License fee (varies by business size).

2. Job Role Must Meet Skilled Worker Visa Criteria

To sponsor a worker, the job must:

• Be on the Shortage Occupation List (if applicable).
• Meet the minimum salary threshold (£26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour for most roles).
• Fall under an eligible occupation code defined by the UK Home Office.

3. Compliance with UK Immigration Laws

Employers must adhere to strict compliance requirements, including:

• Keeping accurate records of sponsored employees.
• Reporting any changes in employment status (termination, salary changes, etc.).
• Conducting right-to-work checks to prevent illegal employment.
• Ensuring employees meet the English language proficiency requirement.

Steps to Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship for Employers

Step 1: Apply for a UK Sponsor License

Before issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship, employers must obtain a Sponsor License by submitting:

• Business registration documents (Companies House registration, VAT records, etc.).
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements, tax records).
• Detailed job descriptions and recruitment policies.

Processing Time for Sponsor License:

• Standard application: 8-12 weeks.
• Priority service: 10 working days (additional fee applies).

Step 2: Request a CoS Allocation

Once the Sponsor License is granted, employers must request a CoS allocation via the Sponsorship Management System (SMS). They must specify how many Certificates of Sponsorship they need and justify their request.

Step 3: Assign the Certificate of Sponsorship to a Worker

After receiving CoS allocation, employers must assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to the worker. The CoS must include:

• Job title and occupation code.
• Salary and working hours.
• Start and end date of employment.
• CoS reference number (assigned by the Home Office).

Step 4: Worker Uses the CoS for Visa Application

The foreign worker uses the CoS reference number to apply for a UK work visa. The worker must:

• Meet the financial maintenance requirement.
• Provide supporting documents such as a passport, job contract, and proof of qualifications.

UK Certificate of Sponsorship Fees for Employers

Employers must pay the following fees when sponsoring a foreign worker:

• Skilled Worker Visa CoS Fee: £199 per certificate.
• Temporary Worker Visa CoS Fee: £21 per certificate.
• Immigration Skills Charge (ISC): £364 to £1,000 per year (depending on business size).

Responsibilities of UK Employers Issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship

Employers who issue a Certificate of Sponsorship must:

• Maintain up-to-date records of all sponsored workers.
• Ensure the job role complies with UK visa salary and skill level requirements.
• Report worker absences and terminations to the Home Office.
• Cooperate with UKVI audits and inspections.

Common Reasons for CoS Employer Application Rejection

• Business lacks a valid Sponsor License.
• Job role does not meet Skilled Worker Visa eligibility.
• Employer has a history of non-compliance with immigration laws.
• Failure to meet financial obligations and salary thresholds.

What to Do if Your CoS Employer Application is Refused?

If your UK CoS employer application is refused:

• Review the Home Office decision and identify errors.
• Correct any issues and resubmit the application.
• Seek guidance from an immigration solicitor.
• Appeal the decision if applicable.