How to Apply for the Sponsor Licence Priority Service

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The Sponsor Licence Priority Service is a fast-track option provided by the UK Home Office that allows businesses applying for a sponsor licence to expedite the processing of their application.

Standard processing time: Up to 8 weeks.
Priority service processing time: 10 working days, subject to availability.

A Sponsor Licence is required by UK-based businesses and organizations intending to employ skilled workers from overseas under the Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa categories.

3. Benefits of the Priority Service

Faster Processing: Reduces waiting times from 8 weeks to 10 working days.
Business Continuity: Enables employers to recruit international talent quickly.
Competitive Advantage: Keeps businesses ahead in securing skilled workers for critical roles.

Step 1: Prepare the Sponsor Licence Application

Gather all required documents, including proof of registration, trading details, and HR compliance policies.
Complete the Sponsor Licence Application Form (online) and pay the standard application fee.

Step 2: Submit the Priority Service Request

After submitting the standard application, send an email to the Home Office requesting the priority service.
Use the Home Office-provided template, ensuring all details match the original application.

Step 3: Receive Confirmation

If the priority service slot is available, the Home Office will confirm acceptance via email.

Step 4: Pay the Priority Service Fee

Fee: £500 (in addition to the standard sponsor licence application fee).
Payment details and instructions are provided in the Home Office confirmation email.

Step 5: Await a Decision

Once the payment is made, the Home Office aims to process the application within 10 working days.

Proof of Business Registration: Incorporation certificate, VAT registration, or HMRC documentation.
Employer’s Liability Insurance Certificate.
Proof of Address: Utility bills, lease agreements, or similar documents.
HR Policies and Procedures: Evidence of your ability to manage sponsorship duties (e.g., monitoring employee immigration status).

6. Eligibility for the Priority Service

Applicants must have already submitted a valid sponsor licence application.
The business must comply with all sponsorship requirements set by the Home Office.
Availability is limited, and slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

7. Priority Service for Adding Roles or Workers

In addition to new sponsor licence applications, the priority service can also expedite:

Adding workers to your existing sponsor licence.
Adding new visa categories or expanding your sponsorship scope.

8. Limitations of the Priority Service

Availability: Limited slots are offered daily, so there’s no guarantee of acceptance.
Cost: The £500 fee is non-refundable, even if the application is unsuccessful.
Complex Cases: Applications requiring extensive review may exceed the 10-day timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the sponsor licence priority service?
The priority service fast-tracks sponsor licence applications, reducing processing times to 10 working days.

2. How much does the priority service cost?
The service costs £500, in addition to the standard sponsor licence application fee.

3. How do I request the sponsor licence priority service?
Submit your standard application and then email the Home Office using their specified template to request the priority service.

4. What happens if my priority service request is denied?
If slots are unavailable, your application will be processed within the standard timeline of up to 8 weeks. The £500 fee is only charged upon acceptance of your priority request.

5. Can I use the priority service to amend my existing sponsor licence?
Yes, the priority service can be used to add workers, roles, or visa categories to an existing licence.

6. Is the priority service fee refundable?
No, the £500 fee is non-refundable once the service is confirmed.

Conclusion

The Sponsor Licence Priority Service is a valuable option for UK businesses that need quick approval to hire international talent. By reducing processing times to just 10 working days, it ensures businesses can meet their staffing needs efficiently. Prepare your application carefully, and act quickly to secure a priority slot for faster results.