- Introduction to Skilled Worker Visa Costs for Employers
The Skilled Worker visa allows UK employers to hire non-UK nationals to fill skilled roles. Employers must pay various fees to sponsor an employee, including sponsorship license fees, visa application costs, and the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC). Understanding these costs helps employers budget effectively for hiring international talent.
- Breakdown of Skilled Worker Visa Costs for Employers
| Cost Component | Fee (£) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor License Application | 536 (small/charitable) or 1,476 (medium/large) |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | 199 |
| Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) | 364–1,000 per year (per employee) |
| Visa Application Fee | 625–1,423 (depending on visa duration and job type) |
- Details of Skilled Worker Visa Costs
3.1 Sponsor License Application Fee
Employers need a Sponsor License to hire Skilled Worker visa holders. The fee depends on the size and type of organization:
- Small Business/Charity: £536.
- Medium or Large Business: £1,476.
3.2 Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Fee
A CoS is an electronic document issued to the sponsored employee.
- Cost: £199 per sponsored worker.
3.3 Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)
The ISC is a levy employers must pay to support the UK’s skills and training programs. The cost depends on the size of the organization and the length of the sponsorship:
- Small Business/Charity: £364 per year per employee.
- Medium or Large Business: £1,000 per year per employee.
- Example: Sponsoring an employee for 3 years costs £1,092 for small businesses or £3,000 for larger organizations.
3.4 Visa Application Fees (Paid by Employer or Employee)
Employers may choose to cover the Skilled Worker visa application fees, which vary by job type and duration:
- Standard Occupations:
- Up to 3 years: £625.
- Over 3 years: £1,235.
- Shortage Occupation Roles:
- Up to 3 years: £479.
- Over 3 years: £943.
3.5 Optional Costs
- Legal Advice or Immigration Consultant Fees: Variable, typically ranging from £500 to £3,000.
- Priority Processing: £500–£800 for expedited application processing.
- Additional Costs Employers Should Consider
| Additional Costs | Purpose | Fee (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance Costs | Covering or reimbursing employee’s IHS. | 624 per year |
| Recruitment and Relocation | Costs related to hiring and onboarding. | Varies |
| Sponsor License Renewal | Renewing the license every 4 years. | 536–1,476 |
- Who Pays for the Skilled Worker Visa Costs?
- Mandatory Costs: Employers must cover the sponsor license fee, CoS fee, and ISC.
- Optional Costs: Employers may pay for the visa application fee, IHS, and legal fees to attract and support employees.
- FAQs About Skilled Worker Visa Costs for Employers
- Can I pass the costs to the employee?
Employers cannot charge employees for the CoS or ISC but may agree to split other costs like visa application fees. - Are there any exemptions to the ISC?
Yes, exemptions apply for certain roles, including PhD-level positions and international students switching visas. - How long is the sponsor license valid?
A sponsor license is valid for 4 years and must be renewed to continue sponsoring employees. - What happens if the employee leaves early?
Employers can notify UKVI to end the sponsorship, but ISC fees already paid are non-refundable. - Are there penalties for non-compliance?
Yes, failure to meet sponsorship duties can result in fines, revocation of the sponsor license, or a ban on hiring foreign workers.
- Conclusion
Sponsoring a Skilled Worker visa requires UK employers to invest in various fees, from the sponsor license to annual Immigration Skills Charges. By understanding these costs and planning ahead, employers can navigate the process efficiently and attract skilled international talent to their organizations.