UK Sponsor Licence: Supporting Your Business to Hire Migrant Workers

The UK government maintains strict rules on employing non-settled workers. Under its immigration system, UK businesses must hold a valid sponsor licence before employing individuals who do not already have a visa that permits them to work in the UK.

At Clarkslegal LLP, our experienced immigration lawyers provide clear, practical and commercially focused guidance throughout the sponsor licence application process. We support both UK and international clients in navigating the complexities of UK immigration law, from the initial application to ongoing compliance.

Once your business successfully obtains a sponsor licence, it will be listed on the Home Office’s Register of Licensed Sponsors (Worker and Temporary Worker routes). You’ll gain access to the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)—the online platform through which you manage your sponsorship duties and apply for Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).

A CoS is a key document required for each overseas worker’s visa application. Once assigned, it enables the individual to apply for a Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa, linking them directly to your organisation.

Clarkslegal’s specialist immigration team also assists with preparing and submitting visa applications for your sponsored employees and their dependants. We are highly experienced in handling all categories under the Points-Based System (PBS) and have a proven track record of securing successful outcomes for businesses across sectors.

Whether you are applying for your first sponsor licence or need help managing your compliance obligations, our team is ready to provide you with tailored, strategic immigration support.

Sponsor Licence everything you need to know 

• What is a UK sponsor licence?

A sponsor licence is a formal permission granted by the Home Office, allowing UK employers to hire non-settled workers who do not already have the right to work in the UK.

• Who needs to apply for a sponsor licence?

Any UK business looking to employ overseas nationals under the Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa routes must hold a valid sponsor licence.

• How do I apply for a sponsor licence?

The application is submitted online and requires detailed information about your business, your HR systems, and the roles you intend to sponsor. You must also provide a set of mandatory supporting documents to prove your organisation’s legitimacy and readiness to comply with sponsor duties.

• What is the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)?

The SMS is an online system provided by the Home Office for managing your sponsor licence. It is used to assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS), update licence details, and report changes concerning your sponsored workers.

• What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

A CoS is a digital document issued by the sponsor employer, which confirms that the individual has a genuine job offer in the UK. The worker will use this certificate as part of their Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa application.

• Can Clarkslegal assist with visa applications for sponsored workers?

Yes, we regularly support employers with the preparation and submission of visa applications for their sponsored employees and their dependants, ensuring compliance with all relevant requirements under the Points-Based System.

• What happens after I get a sponsor licence?

Once granted, your sponsor licence is valid  indefinitely. During this time, you must meet all reporting, record-keeping, and compliance obligations set by the Home Office. Failure to do so can result in suspension or revocation of your licence.

• Need help with your sponsor licence application?

Clarkslegal’s business immigration team is here to help. Get in touch today for strategic support on applying for a sponsor licence or managing your immigration compliance.