1. Introduction: What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document provided by a UK employer, allowing them to legally sponsor a foreign worker for a visa. It’s essential for most work visa applications under the UK’s immigration system. A CoS contains important information about the job, employer, and employee and serves as proof that the worker has a legitimate job offer from a licensed sponsor.
2. Who Needs a Certificate of Sponsorship in the UK?
Anyone applying for certain work visas, including the Skilled Worker Visa or Temporary Worker Visa, will need a CoS. It’s required for the following visa types:
- Skilled Worker Visa: For skilled positions sponsored by an employer.
- Temporary Worker Visas: For short-term roles in categories like charity work, creative industries, and seasonal jobs.
- Intra-Company Transfer Visa: For employees transferring from an overseas branch to a UK branch of the same company.
Without a CoS, foreign nationals cannot apply for these work visas, making it an essential document for employment in the UK.
3. Types of Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS)
There are two main types of CoS:
A. Defined CoS
- Used for Skilled Worker Visas for those applying from outside the UK.
- Must be requested by the employer for a specific overseas worker.
B. Undefined CoS
- For applicants already in the UK, typically used for visa extensions, changes of employment, or for other visa categories.
- Sponsors are given a limited annual allocation of undefined CoS.
Each CoS type serves different categories of workers, and it’s the employer’s responsibility to determine and issue the correct one.
4. How Employers Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship
Only employers with a Sponsor Licence can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship. Here’s how the process works:
- Apply for a Sponsor Licence: Employers must first apply for a Sponsor Licence and receive approval from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
- Determine CoS Type and Apply: Employers use the UKVI’s online portal to request defined or undefined CoS.
- Issue the CoS: Once approved, the employer assigns the CoS to the prospective employee. The CoS includes details about the job, salary, and employment start date.
Employers pay a fee to issue a CoS, which varies based on the visa type and the length of the visa.
5. Information Included in a Certificate of Sponsorship
A CoS includes key details that verify the legitimacy of the job and the employee’s eligibility, including:
- Employer Details: Information about the sponsoring organization.
- Job Role and Description: The position title, duties, and responsibilities.
- Salary: Annual salary, ensuring it meets UK visa requirements.
- Start and End Dates: Expected employment duration.
- Applicant Information: Full name, nationality, and passport details.
This information is submitted to UKVI and is essential for the visa application process.
6. Cost of Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship
The CoS has associated costs, including:
- Certificate of Sponsorship Fee: Typically £199 for Skilled Worker or Intra-Company Transfer visas.
- Immigration Skills Charge: Employers may need to pay an additional fee known as the Immigration Skills Charge (ranging from £364 to £1,000 per year) to support training programs for resident workers.
These fees are generally paid by the employer, not the employee.
7. Using the CoS in Your Visa Application
After the CoS is issued, the employee will receive a unique reference number used in their visa application. Here’s how to proceed:
- Apply for Your Visa: Enter your CoS reference number in the application form. You must apply within 3 months of receiving your CoS.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Along with the CoS, provide additional required documents like a valid passport, proof of English proficiency, and financial support evidence (if required).
- Pay Visa Fees: The visa fee and any additional charges must be paid upon application.
- Attend a Biometric Appointment: If requested, provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated center.
Once your visa application is processed, you can travel to the UK and begin working for your sponsoring employer if approved.
8. Certificate of Sponsorship Validity and Limitations
The CoS is valid for 3 months from the date of issuance, meaning the visa application must be submitted within that period. Additionally:
- One CoS per Job Offer: Each CoS is specific to one job role with one employer.
- Transferability: A CoS is not transferable to other employers or roles; a new CoS is needed for a different job.
- Visa Type: The CoS applies only to the visa type for which it was issued (e.g., Skilled Worker).
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch employers with the same CoS?
No, each CoS is tied to a specific employer and job role. Changing employers requires a new CoS and an updated visa application.
How long does it take to get a CoS?
Employers with a Sponsor Licence can obtain a CoS within 1-4 weeks for most requests. For new Sponsor Licence applications, the process can take up to 8 weeks.
Is there a fee for the CoS?
Yes, a CoS generally costs £199, though additional fees, such as the Immigration Skills Charge, may apply.
Can my family join me with a CoS?
A CoS itself doesn’t permit family members to join. However, if you obtain a work visa using the CoS, your dependents may apply for dependent visas to accompany you.
What happens if my visa application is denied after receiving a CoS?
If your application is denied, you may discuss options with your employer to address the issues and potentially reapply. CoS fees are non-refundable.
10. Conclusion
A Certificate of Sponsorship is a critical part of the UK’s work visa application process, allowing foreign nationals to work legally in the UK. Understanding the CoS requirements, process, and associated costs helps employers and employees alike navigate UK immigration requirements effectively. With the correct CoS, visa applicants can confidently take the next step in their career journey in the UK.