Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa
A Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa enables you to set up a UK company and sponsor yourself for a work visa, combining business ownership with eligibility for the UK’s Skilled Worker route.
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Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa UK
A Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa enables you to set up a UK company and sponsor yourself for a work visa, combining business ownership with eligibility for the UK’s Skilled Worker route. This guide explains every requirement.
What is a Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
The Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa is not a separate immigration category, but a legal strategy that allows entrepreneurs and professionals to set up a UK company and sponsor themselves for a Skilled Worker visa. By establishing a legitimate business, applying for a sponsor licence, and meeting the Home Office’s criteria, you can employ yourself and gain long-term work rights in the UK.
This route is ideal for those seeking control over their business and immigration status, without relying on a third-party employer. It is often used by non-UK residents wanting to build or expand a business in Britain, while securing lawful residency and a route to permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
How does self sponsorship work in the Skilled Worker route?
Self sponsorship involves these main steps:
- Register or acquire a UK company (most commonly a private limited company).
- Obtain a sponsor licence from the Home Office.
- The Authorising Officer (a settled person in the UK) assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to you for your skilled worker role.
- Apply for a Skilled Worker visa using your CoS and supporting documents.
You must ensure your business is genuine, compliant, and offers a real vacancy at the required skill and salary level. The Home Office will assess whether your business is genuinely trading and the job vacancy is authentic, not simply created for the purpose of immigration. Evidence such as signed contracts, a professional website, early trading activity, and business accounts can all help demonstrate the genuineness of your company.
Who is eligible to self sponsor in the UK?
Eligibility for self sponsorship as a Skilled Worker includes:
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- Being 18 or over.
- Having a genuine, operational UK company.
- The company must have a valid sponsor licence.
- The job must be at RQF Level 3 (A-level) or above.
- The job offer and salary must meet the government threshold (usually at least £38,700 or the “going rate”).
- You meet English language (B1 CEFR) and financial maintenance requirements.
How Do You Qualify for Self Sponsorship via Skilled Worker Visa?
To self sponsor, you must first demonstrate that your business and job role meet all Skilled Worker requirements.
Key requirements for self sponsorship:
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- Company Formation: Register with Companies House, set up a business bank account, and prepare to trade legally.
- Sponsor Licence: Apply for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, providing supporting documents (see Sponsor Guidance Appendix A) to show legitimacy.
- Certificate of Sponsorship: The Authorising Officer must assign you a CoS for a genuine role within your company.
- Skilled Job Role: Must match an eligible occupation code (see Appendix Skilled Occupations).
- Salary Threshold: You must be paid at least the higher of £38,700 or the “going rate” for your specific occupation code (see Appendix Skilled Occupations). Some exceptions may apply for roles on shortage occupation lists or new entrants.
- English Language: B1 level (IELTS 4.0 or equivalent).
- Financial Requirement: At least £1,270 in savings or certified maintenance by your company.
- Criminal Record & TB Certificates: If required by sector/country.
Self sponsorship vs. other visa routes
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- Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker: Most flexible for standard businesses; no need for innovation endorsement; suitable for a wide range of industries.
- Innovator Founder: Only suitable if you have a truly innovative, scalable business idea and can obtain endorsement.
- Sole Representative/Other business visas: Rarely used or closed for new applicants
Our immigration lawyers Manchester are always ready to help you. We are just a phone call away.
What Are the Sponsor Licence Requirements for Self Sponsorship?
A sponsor licence is essential for any company wishing to sponsor migrant workers, including yourself as the business owner. The Home Office will scrutinise your company’s structure, finances, and HR systems before approval.
How to set up a UK company for self-sponsorship
Establishing a UK company is the essential first step in the self-sponsorship process. Your business must be a legitimate trading entity that meets UK legal requirements and can support your application for a sponsor licence. The most popular and suitable choice is a Private Limited Company (Ltd), as this structure provides limited liability, is favoured by UK Visas and Immigration, and enables you to employ yourself as a director and skilled worker.
To set up your UK company:
- Choose structure: Private Limited Company (Ltd) is preferred.
- Register with Companies House: Register your company
- Open a business bank account: In the company’s name.
- Register for PAYE and (if required) VAT: With HMRC.
- Prepare a business plan: Outlining objectives, market analysis, financial projections, and job creation.
You should ensure your company has a registered office address in the UK and complies with all relevant regulations from the start. Opening a business bank account is vital, as the Home Office will require evidence of your company’s finances and trading status when you apply for a sponsor licence. Registering for PAYE (and VAT if required) with HMRC demonstrates your company’s intention to trade and hire employees, which supports the genuine nature of your application. Finally, a detailed business plan will not only help clarify your goals but also provide persuasive evidence of your business’s viability during the licence application process.
Taking care to set up your UK company properly will lay the foundation for a successful self sponsorship Skilled Worker visa application. Ensuring all documents and registrations are in place from the outset can prevent delays and complications as you progress through the sponsorship and visa process.
Applying for a sponsor licence
Securing a sponsor licence from the Home Office is one of the most important and often challenging steps in self sponsorship. This licence is what gives your UK company the legal right to employ migrant workers, including yourself. To convince UK Visas and Immigration that your business is genuine, properly managed, and capable of fulfilling its sponsor duties, you must submit a thorough and accurate application.
Here’s what the sponsor licence application typically involves:
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- Complete the online application via gov.uk
- Nominate key personnel: Authorising Officer, Key Contact, Level 1 User (must be UK-based; Level 1 must be settled/British).
- Submit required documents: Bank account evidence, HMRC registrations, business insurance, and more (at least 4 documents for start-ups).
- Pay the sponsor licence fee (£536 for small businesses; £1,476 for medium/large).
- Processing time: Usually 8 weeks; faster processing may be available.
Authorising Officer: The Authorising Officer is the most senior person responsible for ensuring your company’s compliance with all sponsor duties. This role must be clearly assigned as part of your sponsor licence application.
Level 1 User: (The Level 1 User, who manages your licence day-to-day, must normally be a settled worker in the UK (British citizen, a person with indefinite leave to remain, or someone with status under the EU Settlement Scheme). The Home Office may allow exceptions for some start-ups, but this is rare and entirely at their discretion.)
Important: If you are not a settled person in the UK, you must arrange for another eligible settled individual to act as Authorising Officer (AO) for your company. The AO is legally responsible for all sponsorship activity and is the only person authorised to assign Certificates of Sponsorship, including to you as the proposed sponsored worker.
You should also prepare for the possibility of a Home Office compliance visit. Officials may want to verify that your company is operating lawfully and is able to meet all its sponsorship duties, such as monitoring employees, maintaining HR records, and reporting any changes. Demonstrating robust HR processes and clear business activity (such as a website, professional email, and early trading or contracts) will strengthen your application.
A successful sponsor licence application opens the door to self sponsorship and skilled migration. It is essential to pay close attention to every detail and to seek professional advice if you are unsure at any stage of the process.
Certificate of Sponsorship process
Once your sponsor licence is approved, the next critical step is for the Authorising Officer to assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is a unique digital reference that confirms you have a genuine job offer in your UK business and meets all the Skilled Worker route requirements. Without a valid CoS, you cannot apply for the Skilled Worker visa.
Once the licence is granted:
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- The Authorising Officer assigns a Defined CoS to you for the job role.
- CoS must contain accurate job title, SOC code, salary, and start date.
- The CoS is valid for 3 months for visa application.
Assigning the CoS accurately is crucial. The Home Office may refuse your visa if there are inconsistencies or if they suspect the job has been created purely to obtain a visa. Clearly define your job responsibilities, salary, and contract terms, ensuring they comply with the latest Immigration Rules and are reflected across all submitted documents. This stage is also your opportunity to demonstrate that your business is genuine, the vacancy is real, and that you meet the skill and salary thresholds required for sponsorship.
Can a non-UK resident set up and run the business?
Yes, non-UK residents can own and direct UK companies. However, you need a UK-based Level 1 User for the sponsor licence application. Many successful applicants use a trusted adviser or hire an eligible director for this purpose.
How Do You Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa as a Self-Sponsor?
The visa application follows these steps:
Step-by-step self sponsorship visa process
The application process for a self sponsorship Skilled Worker visa follows a clear sequence, but every stage requires careful preparation. Understanding each step can help you avoid delays and costly errors. Below is an overview of how the self sponsorship visa process works from start to finish:
- Company setup: Register and structure your business.
- Sponsor licence: Apply and obtain approval from the Home Office.
- Assign CoS: The Authorising Officer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship to you for your skilled worker role.
- Visa application: Apply online for the Skilled Worker visa using your CoS, documents, and proof of funds.
- Biometrics & ID verification: Attend a Visa Application Centre (overseas) or UKVCAS (in the UK) for fingerprints/photograph, unless using the ID Check app.
- Receive decision: Standard processing is 3 weeks (overseas) or 8 weeks (in-country); priority services may be available.
Each step must be completed in order, and missing information or poorly prepared documents can result in your application being refused or significantly delayed. It is strongly recommended to double-check every document and consider seeking expert immigration advice to ensure a smooth process. Remember, the key to a successful self sponsorship visa application is demonstrating the genuine nature of your business and your eligibility as a skilled worker under UK law.
Required supporting documents
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- Valid passport or travel document
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Sponsor licence number
- Proof of English language (IELTS, degree, etc.)
- Proof of financial maintenance (£1,270)
- TB and criminal record certificates (if required)
- Details of dependants (if applicable)
Costs and government fees in 2025
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- Sponsor licence: £536 or £1,476 (see above)
- Certificate of Sponsorship: £239 per CoS
- Skilled Worker visa fee: £719–£1,500+ (varies by duration/location)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year per applicant
- Priority decision (optional): +£500 to £1,000
Our immigration lawyers Manchester are always ready to help you. We are just a phone call away.
What Does the Self Sponsorship Visa Process Involve?
Timescales and standard processing time
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- Sponsor licence: Up to 8 weeks (faster service available in some cases)
- Visa decision: 3 weeks (outside UK), 8 weeks (inside UK); priority available
- End-to-end process: Realistically allow 2–3 months for the full journey
Common mistakes to avoid
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- Incomplete or inconsistent business documents
- Lack of genuine job vacancy/evidence
- Key personnel not eligible or not UK-based
- Failing to meet salary/skill threshold
- Missing deadlines for visa or compliance reporting
Self sponsorship application tips
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- Seek legal advice at each stage.
- Prepare all documents in advance, especially business bank statements, HMRC records, and company structure.
- Draft a robust business plan.
- Assign an eligible UK-based Level 1 User.
- Demonstrate genuine business activity to the Home Office.
What Are Your Duties After Getting a Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa?
Sponsor licence compliance and ongoing obligations
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- Keep all employee records up to date (including your own).
- Monitor visa expiry and reporting duties.
- Ensure salary and role remain compliant with Skilled Worker conditions.
- Report any changes (company ownership, job role, etc.) to the Home Office within 10 working days via SMS.
What if circumstances change?
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- If you leave your sponsored role or the company ceases trading, you must notify the Home Office.
- Changing your job or salary significantly will often require a new CoS and possibly a new visa application.
- Breaching sponsor or visa conditions can lead to licence revocation and loss of right to work.
Can I Bring Family on a Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa?
Dependant partner and children eligibility
Your partner and children under 18 can apply as your dependants, using the same duration as your Skilled Worker visa.
You must provide proof of relationship and additional maintenance funds (£285 for partner, £315 for first child, £200 for each additional child).
Financial requirements for dependants
Each dependant must show adequate funds (as above) or have maintenance certified by the sponsor on the CoS.
How Do You Qualify for Settlement After Self Sponsorship?
Route to indefinite leave to remain (ILR)
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- Residence: 5 continuous years in the UK as a Skilled Worker.
- Employment: Still required and employed by the sponsoring company.
- Salary: Must meet ILR salary threshold or “going rate”.
- Life in the UK test: Required for all ILR applicants.
- No excessive absences: Not more than 180 days per year outside the UK.
Life in the UK test and salary thresholds
To qualify for ILR, you must pass the Life in the UK test and show you are paid at least the minimum ILR threshold or the going rate for your occupation, whichever is higher.
Our immigration lawyers Manchester are always ready to help you. We are just a phone call away.
Some Important Notes - Self Sponsorship
You cannot assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to yourself. Only a settled Authorising Officer can do this, even if you are the company’s sole owner and director. This is a strict Home Office requirement.
You should plan for the Authorising Officer to remain involved throughout the sponsor licence validity period. If they leave or lose their settled status, a new AO must be appointed promptly.
Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
It is not a separate visa type, but a process allowing you to set up a UK company, obtain a sponsor licence, and sponsor yourself for a Skilled Worker visa.
Can I sponsor myself for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK?
Yes. If you set up a genuine UK company with a valid sponsor licence, the company’s Authorising Officer (a settled person in the UK) can assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship so you may apply for a Skilled Worker visa.
How do I start the self sponsorship process?
You must register a UK business, open a business bank account, obtain a sponsor licence, and then your company’s Authorising Officer must assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship before you apply for the Skilled Worker visa.
Is there a dedicated self sponsorship visa route in the UK?
No, self sponsorship uses the Skilled Worker visa route by meeting all the requirements as both employer and sponsored employee.
What are the main requirements for self sponsorship?
You need a genuine UK business, a sponsor licence, a valid job offer that meets skill and salary thresholds, and you must meet English language and financial requirements.
How much does a self sponsorship skilled worker visa cost?
Typical costs include the sponsor licence (£536–£1,476), CoS (£239), visa application fee (£719–£1,500+), and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year).
What is a Certificate of Sponsorship for self sponsorship?
It is a unique reference number issued to you by your company’s Authorising Officer, confirming your skilled job role and enabling you to apply for the visa.
Can a non-UK resident set up a business and sponsor themselves?
Yes, non-UK residents can register UK companies and obtain sponsor licences, but must appoint a UK-based Level 1 User for sponsor management.
What jobs are eligible for self sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route?
Any job listed in Appendix Skilled Occupations at RQF Level 3 or above and meeting the minimum salary threshold.
What is the minimum salary for self sponsorship?
The minimum salary is the higher of £38,700 per year or the “going rate” for your specific job code. Some exceptions may apply for shortage occupations or new entrants, but most applicants must meet this threshold.
How long does the self sponsorship visa process take?
The full process takes 2–3 months on average, with the sponsor licence taking up to 8 weeks and the visa decision 3–8 weeks.
Can my family join me on a self sponsorship skilled worker visa?
Yes, your spouse/partner and children under 18 can apply as dependants if you meet the financial requirements.
Do I need a business plan for self sponsorship?
It’s not always mandatory, but a strong business plan greatly improves your sponsor licence application and shows business viability.
What documents are needed for a self sponsorship visa application?
Passport, CoS reference, sponsor licence number, proof of English, financial evidence, TB/criminal record certificates if required, and relationship proof for dependants.
Can I switch to a self sponsorship visa from another UK visa?
Yes, in many cases, you can switch from another visa type if you meet all the Skilled Worker self-sponsorship criteria.
However, you cannot switch from certain visa types, such as Visitor, Short-term Student, Parent of a Child Student, or Seasonal Worker visas. Always refer to the latest gov.uk switching rules to check if you are eligible to switch from your current visa type.
Do I have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Yes, the IHS applies to all main applicants and dependants for each year of stay.
Can I own 100% of my company and still sponsor myself?
Yes, you can own 100% of your company and be its director. However, the legal process requires your Authorising Officer (who must be a settled person in the UK) to assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship as a skilled worker.
What happens if my company stops trading or I change my job?
You must report any significant changes to the Home Office. If your sponsor licence is revoked or the business closes, your visa may be curtailed.
Is there a minimum investment fund required for self sponsorship?
No set amount is required, but your business must be genuine and have enough funds to pay your salary and operate lawfully.
How do I qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) via self sponsorship?
You must spend 5 years in the UK as a Skilled Worker, remain employed by your company, meet the salary threshold, and pass the Life in the UK test.
Can I assign myself a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
You cannot assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to yourself. Only the Authorising Officer, who must usually be a settled person in the UK, can issue a CoS to the proposed worker (even if that worker is the owner/director).
Visa Glossary
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa | A legal route where you establish a UK company and sponsor yourself for a Skilled Worker visa, acting as both employer and employee. |
Sponsor Licence | Permission from the UK Home Office allowing a UK business to sponsor migrant workers under the Skilled Worker route. |
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | An electronic certificate issued by a licensed sponsor to a skilled worker, required for the Skilled Worker visa application. |
Appendix Skilled Occupations | The official list of job roles eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa, published by the UK Home Office. |
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | An annual fee required for most UK visa applicants, giving access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. |
Level 1 User | The person responsible for daily management of the sponsor licence on the Sponsorship Management System (SMS); must be based in the UK. |
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | Permanent residency status in the UK, allowing the holder to live and work in the UK without time restriction. |
PAYE | Pay As You Earn; HMRC’s system for collecting Income Tax and National Insurance from employees. |
Business Plan | A document outlining your company’s objectives, financial forecasts, and market analysis, often required for sponsor licence applications. |
Dependants | Family members (spouse/partner or children under 18) eligible to join the main visa applicant in the UK. |
Visa Resources
Resource | Link |
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Skilled Worker Visa Guidance (gov.uk) | https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa |
Sponsor Licence Application (gov.uk) | https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers |
Register a Company (Companies House) | https://www.gov.uk/limited-company-formation/register-your-company |
Appendix Skilled Occupations | https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-skilled-occupations |
Approved English Language Tests | https://www.gov.uk/english-language |
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application |
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Guidance | https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain |
Table of Contents
- What is a Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
- How Do You Qualify for Self Sponsorship via Skilled Worker Visa?
- What Are the Sponsor Licence Requirements for Self Sponsorship?
- How Do You Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa as a Self-Sponsor?
- What Does the Self Sponsorship Visa Process Involve?
- What Are Your Duties After Getting a Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa?
- Can I Bring Family on a Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa?
- How Do You Qualify for Settlement After Self Sponsorship?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Self Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa
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