UK Self Sponsorship Visa

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What is UK Self Sponsorship Visa?

The UK Self Sponsorship Visa offers a route for entrepreneurs and business owners to live and work in the UK by sponsoring themselves through their own UK-registered companies. It is not a separate visa category but a useful option under the Skilled Worker visa route.

The self-sponsored visa route is ideally suited for individuals who either want to establish a new business in the UK or already own an active UK company. To proceed, the business must first obtain a Skilled Worker sponsor licence. Once this is in place, you can apply for a Skilled Worker visa by being sponsored by your own business.

The self-sponsorship route is especially beneficial for those looking to expand their business presence while working towards long-term settlement in the UK. It also allows applicants to bring their dependent partners and children, with partners permitted to work full-time.

At West End Consultants, we guide you through the self-sponsorship visa process to ensure your move to the UK is clear, compliant, and consistent with your goals.

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What are the requirements for Self-Sponsorships Visa?

To be eligible for a UK Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
  • You are at least 18 years of age
  • You have an active and genuinely UK-registered company
  • Your UK company holds a Skilled Worker sponsor licence
  • You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for your role
  • Your job offer is authentic and at the required skill level
  • Your proposed salary meets the applicable salary threshold and going rate
  • You meet the English language requirement (at least CEFR Level B1 or UKVI IELTS 4.0)
  • You have sufficient funds to support yourself without public assistance
  • You provide a criminal record certificate (if applicable)
  • You submit a valid tuberculosis (TB) certificate (if required)

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How to Apply for a Self Sponsorship Visa

How to Apply for a Self Sponsorship Visa?

1

Establish Your UK Company

The first step is registering your business with Companies House. You can do this from overseas, and there’s no requirement to be a UK resident. You’ll need to choose a company structure, appoint directors, and comply with basic legal obligations.

2

Open a UK Business Bank Account

To support your business registration and sponsor licence application, your company must have a UK business bank account. Although opening one as a non-UK resident is possible, banks usually have varying requirements like identity checks and may require an in-person visit or a UK-based signatory.

3

Apply for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence

Once your company is incorporated and a bank account is in place, you’ll need to apply for a sponsor licence. This allows your business to sponsor you under the Skilled Worker route. You must show the Home Office that your business is genuine, capable of meeting sponsor duties, and offering a role that meets salary and skill level requirements.

4

Appoint Key Personnel for the Sponsor Licence

You’ll need to appoint three roles: an Authorising Officer, a Key Contact, and a Level 1 User. These roles can be filled by the same or different individuals, but they must be UK-based. At least one person must be British or settled in the UK and have sufficient command of your business.

5

Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

After securing the sponsor licence, your company can issue a Defined Certificate of Sponsorship to you. This electronic document includes details about your role, salary, and start date, and it’s a valuable part of your Skilled Worker visa application.

6

Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

With your CoS ready, you can apply for the Skilled Worker visa. You’ll need to submit supporting documents, including your CoS, proof of funds, and a business plan. You must also meet the English language requirement and confirm your role aligns with the visa’s eligibility criteria.

Process for a New Sponsor Licence

1

Establish Your UK Company

The first step is registering your business with Companies House. You can do this from overseas, and there’s no requirement to be a UK resident. You’ll need to choose a company structure, appoint directors, and comply with basic legal obligations.

2

Open a UK Business Bank Account

To support your business registration and sponsor licence application, your company must have a UK business bank account. Although opening one as a non-UK resident is possible, banks usually have varying requirements like identity checks and may require an in-person visit or a UK-based signatory.

3

Apply for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence

Once your company is incorporated and a bank account is in place, you’ll need to apply for a sponsor licence. This allows your business to sponsor you under the Skilled Worker route. You must show the Home Office that your business is genuine, capable of meeting sponsor duties, and offering a role that meets salary and skill level requirements.

4

Appoint Key Personnel for the Sponsor Licence

You’ll need to appoint three roles: an Authorising Officer, a Key Contact, and a Level 1 User. These roles can be filled by the same or different individuals, but they must be UK-based. At least one person must be British or settled in the UK and have sufficient command of your business.

5

Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

After securing the sponsor licence, your company can issue a Defined Certificate of Sponsorship to you. This electronic document includes details about your role, salary, and start date, and it’s a valuable part of your Skilled Worker visa application.

6

Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

With your CoS ready, you can apply for the Skilled Worker visa. You’ll need to submit supporting documents, including your CoS, proof of funds, and a business plan. You must also meet the English language requirement and confirm your role aligns with the visa’s eligibility criteria.

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How West End Consultants Can Help?

West End Consultants is a UK-based OISC-regulated immigration consultancy firm with over 15 years of experience in supporting businesses and individuals through visa processes. We specialise in UK expansion worker visas, offering comprehensive assistance to ensure you meet all the requirements.

Our professional team assists businesses in navigating the complexities of obtaining and maintaining sponsor licences, ensuring that you comply with all regulatory standards. We handle all aspects of the application process, from gathering and verifying documentation to managing communications with immigration authorities.

For individual applicants, we provide you with support throughout the visa application process. This includes help with preparing necessary documents, proving English language proficiency, and securing valid job offers.

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How We Work?

Our client-centred methodology accommodates your goals and availability. Contact us to find out how we can help you with your immigration-related concerns

STEP 1

Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers by phone,
email, web form, or in-person at our office.

STEP 2

Confidentially discuss your
legal problem with our lawyers and learn about the approach they will take to your case.

STEP 3

We get to work and
we will keep you updated on every stage.

What Our Clients Say

FAQs

1Can I be a Director and shareholder of the UK company if I sponsor myself for a Self-Sponsorship Visa?
Yes, you can be a Director and hold up to 100% of the shares in your company if you are applying for a Self-Sponsorship Visa.
2Do I need to show a specific amount of investment funds for a Self-Sponsorship Visa?
There is no set investment amount required. However, you must demonstrate that your UK business is genuine and lawfully operating. Having sufficient funds to grow the business and meet salary obligations can support your application.
3Does the UK business need to be innovative or unique?
No. There are no requirements for the business to be innovative, viable, or scalable. Any lawful business type is eligible under the Self-Sponsorship route without endorsement from an approved body.
4Is a business plan mandatory for the Self-Sponsorship Visa application?
No, a business plan is not compulsory, but it can help demonstrate that your business is genuine and operational. It is often recommended to include one as part of your application.
5Do I need to receive a salary while in the UK on a Self-Sponsorship Visa?
Yes, you must receive a salary from your UK business. The salary should meet or exceed the general salary threshold and the going rate for your specific occupation code.
6Is there an English language requirement for the Self-Sponsorship Visa?
Yes, you must meet at least B1 level in reading, writing, speaking, and listening under the Common European Framework. This can be proven through a Secure English Language Test, academic qualifications, or if you are from an English-speaking country.
7How long is the Self-Sponsorship Visa valid for?
The visa is generally granted for up to 5 years, depending on your Certificate of Sponsorship. It will be valid until 14 days after the CoS end date.
8Can I take on additional work in the UK while running my business?
Yes, you may undertake supplementary employment if it meets the permitted criteria and you continue working in the sponsored role.
9Can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain through the Self-Sponsorship route?
Yes, after 5 continuous years in the UK, you may apply for Settlement. Your business must remain an approved sponsor, and you must meet residence and salary requirements along with passing the Life in the UK Test.

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