How to Apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship in the UK: Requirements Explained

Table of Contents

1. Overview of the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) in the UK

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document issued by a UK employer who is sponsoring a foreign worker under a work visa, such as the Skilled Worker Visa or Temporary Worker Visa. The CoS contains details about the job and the employee, and it’s necessary for foreign nationals to obtain work authorization in the UK.

2. Documents Required for Employers to Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship

To issue a CoS, UK employers must hold a Sponsor License and fulfill certain documentation requirements:

2.1 Proof of Eligibility and Business Operation

Business Registration Documents: Certificate of Incorporation, partnership agreement, or registration with Companies House.
Employer Liability Insurance: Proof of compliance with minimum required insurance coverage.
VAT Registration (if applicable): Documentation showing VAT registration or proof of VAT exemption.

2.2 Proof of Genuine Employment Need

Job Description and Salary Details: Clear job descriptions, duties, and evidence that the role meets the salary and skill level requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Recruitment Documents: Evidence of attempts to recruit locally, such as job advertisements, CV reviews, and interview records (especially relevant if the role requires proof of a genuine vacancy).
Sponsorship Management System (SMS) Details: Access to the SMS system to assign CoS and manage the sponsorship process.

2.3 Record-Keeping Obligations

Employers are responsible for maintaining records on sponsored workers, including copies of their passport, visa, and right-to-work documents. These may be requested by the Home Office during audits.

3. Documents Required for Employees Applying with a Certificate of Sponsorship

Once an employer issues a CoS, the sponsored employee must provide additional documents as part of their visa application:

3.1 Personal Identification Documents

Valid Passport: With at least six months’ validity beyond the intended stay.
Current Visa or Immigration Status Documents: If applying from within the UK, proof of legal immigration status.

3.2 Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Reference Number

The CoS reference number is a unique code provided by the employer. It links to details about the job offer, employment terms, and visa type.

3.3 Financial Documents for Maintenance Requirement

If the employer does not “certify maintenance” on the CoS, the employee must show personal bank statements or proof of funds (typically £1,270) held for at least 28 days before applying.

3.4 English Language Proficiency Evidence

Most work visas require proof of English language proficiency. Acceptable evidence includes:

English Test Results: IELTS or equivalent scores meeting minimum requirements.
Educational Qualification: Degree taught in English, or NARIC certificate showing equivalency.

3.5 Criminal Record Certificate (if required)

For certain occupations (e.g., healthcare, education), applicants may need to provide a Criminal Record Certificate from any country where they’ve lived for more than 12 months in the last 10 years.

4. How to Apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

The employer applies for a Sponsor License and receives access to the Sponsorship Management System (SMS).

Step 2: Assigning the CoS

Once a Sponsor License is obtained, the employer uses the SMS to assign a CoS, providing all relevant job and employee details.

Step 3: Receive CoS Reference Number

The employer provides the CoS reference number to the sponsored employee, who will use it to apply for their visa.

5. Types of Certificate of Sponsorship

Defined CoS: For Skilled Worker Visa applicants applying from outside the UK.

Undefined CoS: For Skilled Worker Visa applicants applying from within the UK and other visa types, such as the Intra-Company Transfer Visa.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a Certificate of Sponsorship valid?
A CoS is valid for 3 months from the date it is issued.
Can a Certificate of Sponsorship be transferred to another employer?
No, the CoS is employer-specific. Employees must apply for a new CoS if switching employers.
Who pays for the Certificate of Sponsorship?
The employer typically pays for the CoS issuance as part of the sponsorship.
Is there a limit on the number of CoS a company can issue?
Yes, the Home Office may set a limit based on the employer’s Sponsor License agreement.
Can I work for multiple employers with one CoS?
No, the CoS is tied to a specific employer and job role. Separate CoS are required for different employers.

7. Conclusion

Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship is essential for employers hiring foreign nationals and for employees applying for UK work visas. By ensuring that all required documents are prepared and accurate, employers and employees can facilitate a smooth visa application process and enhance compliance with UK immigration laws.