Introduction
The UK CoS application p****rocess is a crucial step for employers looking to sponsor foreign workers under the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa and other work visa categories. The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document assigned to an employee to prove their job offer is genuine and meets UK visa requirements.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the UK CoS application process, from obtaining a Sponsor License to assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship to a foreign worker.
What is the UK CoS Application Process?
The UK CoS application process involves several steps that employers must follow to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to eligible workers. The key steps include:
- Applying for a Sponsor License
- Requesting a CoS allocation from the Home Office
- Assigning the Certificate of Sponsorship to a worker
- Ensuring compliance with UK visa sponsorship rules
Step 1: Employer Applies for a Sponsor License
Before an employer can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, they must obtain a Sponsor License from the UK Home Office. To qualify, the employer must:
- Prove they are a legitimate UK-based business.
- Demonstrate a genuine need to hire overseas workers.
- Show they have proper HR systems in place to monitor sponsored workers.
- Pay the Sponsor License fee, which varies based on the business size.
Processing Time for a UK Sponsor License
- Standard processing time: 8-12 weeks
- Priority service (optional): 10 working days (additional fee applies)
Step 2: Requesting a Certificate of Sponsorship Allocation
Once the Sponsor License is approved, the employer must apply for a CoS allocation using the Sponsorship Management System (SMS). Employers must specify how many Certificates of Sponsorship they need and justify their request.
There are two types of CoS allocations:
- Defined CoS: For skilled workers applying from outside the UK.
- Undefined CoS: For workers already in the UK switching to a work visa.
Step 3: Assigning the Certificate of Sponsorship
After receiving the CoS allocation, employers can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to the foreign worker. The employer must provide details such as:
- Job title and occupation code
- Salary and working hours
- Start and end date of employment
- CoS reference number (issued by the Home Office)
UK CoS Application Fees
- Skilled Worker Visa CoS: £199 per certificate
- Temporary Worker Visa CoS: £21 per certificate
Employers may also need to pay the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC), which ranges from £364 to £1,000 per year, depending on business size.
Step 4: Worker Uses the CoS for UK Visa Application
Once the Certificate of Sponsorship is assigned, the foreign worker must use the CoS reference number when applying for a UK work visa. The worker must:
- Meet the English language requirement
- Prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves
- Submit supporting documents, including passport, job contract, and proof of qualifications
UK CoS Processing Time
The UK CoS application process usually takes:
- 1-2 working days for employers to assign a CoS after allocation.
- 8-12 weeks for a Sponsor License application.
- 15 working days for a Skilled Worker Visa decision (priority services available).
Responsibilities of UK Sponsors
Employers issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship must:
- Monitor and report any changes in employment status.
- Keep records of sponsored workers and compliance checks.
- Ensure the job role meets minimum salary and skill level requirements.
- Notify the Home Office if a worker stops working for them.
Common Reasons for UK CoS Application Rejection
- Employer lacks a valid Sponsor License.
- Job role does not meet the Skilled Worker Visa criteria.
- Inaccurate or incomplete CoS application details.
- Employer has a history of non-compliance with UK immigration laws.
What to Do if Your UK CoS Application is Refused?
If your UK CoS application is rejected:
- Review the Home Office decision for errors.
- Correct any mistakes and resubmit the application.
- Seek advice from an immigration solicitor.
- Appeal the decision if applicable.