Self Sponsorship Visa UK

Mastering the UK Self Sponsorship Visa Process: Your Step-by-Step Guide

The UK Self-Sponsorship Visa pathway provides an alternative route for individuals who wish to establish a business and sponsor themselves under the Skilled Worker Visa category. While not a standalone visa type, self-sponsorship allows entrepreneurs and business owners to relocate to the UK, operate a legitimate business, and pursue their professional ambitions.

UK Expansion Worker Visa Option

If you have an established business outside of the UK and want to create a UK branch or subsidiary linked to the overseas company by common ownership and control, the UK Expansion Worker visa route might be a better option for you.

What is a UK Self-Sponsorship Visa?

Self-sponsorship in the UK allows you to:

Establish a UK company or use an existing UK business to sponsor yourself for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Work for your business while fulfilling your duties as a sponsored skilled worker.
Relocate your family to the UK under the dependant visa category.

This route does not require pre-existing UK residency and offers a route to settlement after five years.

Eligibility Requirements for a UK Self Sponsorship Visa

To qualify for the UK Self-Sponsorship Visa via the Skilled Worker route, you must meet the following criteria:

Set Up a UK Company:
- You must own or purchase a genuine UK business registered with Companies House.
- The company must have a trading presence in the UK and comply with local laws.
- Evidence of contracts, clients, or trading activity is recommended to strengthen your application.
Obtain a Sponsor Licence:
- Your company must secure a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence from the Home Office.
- This demonstrates the company’s ability to meet sponsor obligations, including compliance with UK laws and salary thresholds.
Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):
- Once the Sponsor Licence is approved, your company will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This document is mandatory for your Skilled Worker Visa application.
Meet Salary and Job Criteria:
- Your role must meet the minimum required skill level of RQF Level 3 (A-Level equivalent).
- You must earn a minimum salary of £38,700 per year or the amount specified in the Standard Occupational Code (SOC) in Appendix Skilled Occupations, whichever is higher. Lower salaries may apply depending on circumstances, such as:
  - New entrants to the labour market.
  - Specific roles listed on the Immigration Salary List.
English Language Proficiency:
- Prove your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English by:
  - Passing an approved English language test at CEFR Level B1.
  - Holding a degree taught in English.
  - Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
Financial Requirements:
- You must have held £1,270 in savings for at least 28 consecutive days before the application.
- Additional funds are required for dependant family members, or the company can certify maintenance on the CoS.
Tuberculosis (TB) Certificate:
- Provide a valid TB test certificate if applicable to your country of residence.

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Key Steps to Apply for a UK Self Sponsorship Visa

Step 1: Establish a UK Business

Register a new UK company or use an existing one.
Ensure the business is legitimate and has a trading presence (e.g., website, clients, contracts, or bank account activity).
You may appoint UK-based directors for practical reasons, but it is not a requirement for company formation.

Step 2: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

Apply for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence through your UK business.
Designate key personnel for compliance:
- Authorising Officer: Responsible for sponsorship activities.
- Level 1 User: Manages the Sponsor Management System.
Ensure robust HR and compliance systems are in place to meet Home Office requirements.

Step 3: Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once the Sponsor Licence is approved, your company will issue a CoS to you as the skilled worker.
The CoS must include:
- Details of your role, salary, and start date (within three months of your visa application).
- Confirmation that the CoS has not been used previously or cancelled.

Step 4: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

Submit an online application, including:
- CoS reference number.
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Financial documentation.
- TB certificate (if required).
Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Processing Times

Sponsor Licence Application: 8–10 weeks (priority processing available for an additional fee).
Skilled Worker Visa Application: Standard processing takes approximately 3 weeks from outside the UK. Priority service may reduce this to 5 working days.

Route to Settlement

The Skilled Worker Visa through self-sponsorship allows for settlement after five years, provided you meet the continuous residence requirement and pass the Life in the UK Test. Your family members can also apply for settlement, ensuring long-term stability in the UK.