Sponsorship Licence Application
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Sponsorship Licence Application
A sponsorship licence is a permission granted by the UK Home Office to an employer, allowing them to hire foreign workers. An employer cannot sponsor foreign workers for UK visas without a sponsorship licence
Page Contents
Types of licences
Eligibility
Compliance
Penalties for non-compliance
Costs
Application process
Frequently asked questions
Remaining Compliant with Sponsorship Licence Rules
Employers must comply with various sponsorship licence rules, such as keeping records of their sponsored workers and reporting any changes to their employment status. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties, including revocation of the sponsorship licence.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with Sponsor Licence Duties
Penalties for non-compliance with sponsorship licence duties include fines of up to £20,000 per illegal worker, imprisonment, and revocation of the sponsorship licence.
In conclusion, obtaining a sponsorship licence is crucial for UK employers looking to hire foreign workers. By following the requirements and rules outlined by the Home Office, employers can ensure that they remain compliant and avoid any penalties.
Different Types of Sponsorship Licences
There are two types of sponsorship licences: a Tier 2 licence for skilled workers and a Tier 5 licence for temporary workers. The type of licence you need depends on the kind of work the foreign worker will be doing in the UK.
Which UK Work Visas Require a Sponsorship Licence?
Most UK work visas require a sponsorship licence, including Tier 2 (General) visas for skilled workers and Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) visas for temporary workers.
Which Organisations Are Eligible for a Sponsorship Licence?
Any UK organisation can apply for a sponsorship licence, including businesses, charities, and educational institutions. However, they must meet certain criteria, such as being a legitimate business and being able to provide evidence of their finances.
Sponsorship Licence Requirements
To obtain a sponsorship licence, an employer must meet several requirements, such as proving they are a genuine business, have a legitimate need for foreign workers, and can offer them appropriate salaries and working conditions.
Steps to Apply for a Sponsorship Licence
To apply for a sponsorship licence, an employer must complete an online application and submit it along with supporting documents. The application fee varies depending on the size of the organisation. Most applications are processed within 8 weeks, but employers can pay an extra fee for a quicker decision.
Cost and Duration of a Sponsorship Licence
The cost of a sponsorship licence ranges from £536 to £1,476 depending on the size of the organisation. A licence lasts for four years and can be renewed before it expires.
How can UVS Law help with your Sponsorship Licence Application?
At UVS, we understand the complexities of UK immigration law and the importance of obtaining a sponsorship licence for businesses looking to hire foreign workers. Our team of experienced lawyers can guide you through the entire process of applying for a sponsorship licence, from assessing your eligibility to submitting the application and ensuring compliance with Home Office rules and regulations. We can also provide ongoing support and advice to help you maintain your sponsorship licence and avoid penalties for non-compliance. Trust us to help you navigate the immigration system and achieve your business goals.
FAQs
Q: What is a sponsorship licence?
A: A sponsorship licence is a permission granted by the UK Home Office, which allows employers to hire non-UK workers. It is mandatory for most non-UK workers to have a sponsor before they can apply for a visa to work in the UK.
Q: Why do businesses need a sponsorship licence?
A: Businesses need a sponsorship licence to hire most non-UK workers. Without a sponsorship licence, they cannot sponsor non-UK workers to work in the UK.
Q: What is a Certificate of Sponsorship or CoS?
A: A Certificate of Sponsorship or CoS is a unique reference number issued by the UK Home Office to a licensed sponsor. It is used to identify the job that the sponsored worker will be doing, the salary they will be paid, and the duration of their employment.
Q: What types of roles can employers hire using the skilled worker route?
A: Employers can hire workers under a range of categories or tiers, including skilled visas, global business mobility visas, health and care worker visas, and temporary worker visas. Jobs that are eligible under the skilled worker route are listed in the Home Office's Sponsor Guidance document.
Q: How hard is it to get a sponsorship licence?
A: Getting a sponsorship licence can be a complex process, and requires employers to meet various requirements, such as HR systems compliance and regulatory scrutiny. The process also involves paying fees and submitting detailed documentation. However, with the help of an experienced immigration and visa law firm, the process can be made much easier, and businesses can ensure they remain compliant with sponsorship licence rules.
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