Overview of Sponsorship in the UK
A UK visa sponsor is an individual or organization that supports a foreign national’s application to enter or remain in the UK. Depending on the visa category, your sponsor could be a family member, employer, or educational institution.
Sponsorship demonstrates that you have a legitimate reason to stay in the UK and that someone is willing and qualified to support you financially or professionally.
The sponsor’s role and obligations vary depending on the visa route, but all must meet strict Home Office eligibility standards to prevent misuse of the immigration system.
Who Can Sponsor You for Different UK Visas
1. Family Members for a Family Visa
If you have close relatives who are British citizens or settled residents, they may be able to sponsor you to live in the UK under the Family Visa category.
Eligible Family Sponsors
- Spouse or Partner: Married, civil, or unmarried partners.
- Parents: For dependent children or adult dependents requiring long-term care.
- Children: For dependent parents (usually elderly).
- Fiancé(e) or Proposed Civil Partner: If planning to marry or form a civil partnership within six months.
Requirements for Family Sponsors
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage or birth certificates, photos, correspondence, or shared financial records.
- Financial Requirement:
- £18,600 minimum annual income (spouse/partner).
- Additional £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.
- Accommodation Proof: Evidence that suitable housing is available without recourse to public funds.
2. Employers for Work Visas
For most work-based visas, sponsorship must come from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office. These employers are listed on the Register of Licensed Sponsors and can issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to eligible workers.
Common Sponsored Work Visas
- Skilled Worker Visa – For qualified professionals with a job offer in an eligible occupation.
- Health and Care Worker Visa – For healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and carers.
- Intra-Company Transfer Visa – For international employees transferring to a UK branch of their company.
- Temporary Worker Visa – For short-term roles in creative, charity, or religious sectors.
Employer Sponsorship Requirements
- Must hold a valid sponsor licence issued by the Home Office.
- Must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) — a unique reference confirming your employment details.
- Must pay at least the minimum salary threshold (usually £26,200 per year or the “going rate” for the job).
- Must confirm the role meets the required skill and English language levels.
3. Educational Institutions for Student Visas
For the Student Visa (previously Tier 4), sponsorship comes from a licensed UK education provider such as a university, college, or accredited school.
Requirements for Educational Sponsors
- The institution must hold a Student Sponsor Licence (listed by the Home Office).
- Must issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) — a digital reference number confirming your admission.
- Must ensure you meet all immigration and attendance obligations.
Student Visa Applicant Requirements
- Proof of acceptance via CAS.
- Evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living costs:
- £1,334 per month for London.
- £1,023 per month for other UK areas.
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
4. Business Investment and Entrepreneurship Sponsorships
For entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators, UK immigration offers several self-sponsorship and endorsement-based pathways.
Available Visa Routes
- Innovator Founder Visa: For entrepreneurs with a business idea endorsed by a UK-approved body and at least £50,000 in investment funds.
- Start-Up Visa: For early-stage entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas but no minimum funding requirement.
- Investor Visa (Tier 1 – now closed to new applicants): Required a minimum £2 million investment in UK businesses.
Requirements for Business Sponsors
- Endorsement: Must be approved by a Home Office-endorsed body confirming the business idea’s viability and innovation.
- Proof of Funds: Evidence of available investment capital or access to business funding.
- Active Business Plan: Showing economic benefit to the UK and job creation potential.
Requirements for All Sponsors
Regardless of the type of visa, sponsors must meet general Home Office requirements to be valid.
1. Proof of Genuine Relationship or Employment
Sponsors must provide documentation that proves the authenticity of the relationship or job offer.
2. Financial Capacity
Sponsors must demonstrate they can support the applicant without recourse to public funds (e.g., income, savings, or company accounts).
3. Authorized Status
Employers and educational institutions must be listed as licensed sponsors by the Home Office. Unlicensed sponsors cannot legally support a visa application.
4. Compliance Obligations
Licensed sponsors must:
- Report changes in the applicant’s circumstances to the Home Office.
- Maintain proper records of employment or study.
- Ensure compliance with visa conditions (attendance, job duties, etc.).
Steps for Getting Sponsored in the UK
Step 1: Identify the Correct Visa and Sponsor
Choose the appropriate visa category — family, work, study, or business — and confirm the sponsor’s eligibility.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Typical documentation includes:
- Proof of relationship (for family sponsorships).
- CoS or CAS (for work or student visas).
- Proof of financial support and accommodation.
Step 3: Submit the Visa Application
Apply online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal. Include your sponsor’s reference (CoS or CAS) and all supporting documents.
Step 4: Attend a Biometric Appointment
Provide fingerprints, a photo, and signature at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Step 5: Wait for the Decision
Most visa decisions are made within 3–8 weeks, depending on the type of application. Priority processing may be available for an extra fee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can a friend sponsor me to come to the UK?
No. Only immediate family members, licensed employers, or approved educational institutions can act as sponsors.
Can my employer sponsor my family to join me?
No, but if you have a valid work visa, you can sponsor your dependents (spouse and children) to join you in the UK.
How long is a Certificate of Sponsorship valid?
A CoS is valid for 3 months from the issue date. You must use it to apply for your visa within that period.
Can I switch sponsors while in the UK?
Yes, but you must apply for a new visa if you change employers or sponsors. The new sponsor must issue a fresh CoS.
Do sponsors need to meet income thresholds?
Yes.
- Family sponsors must meet minimum income rules (£18,600+).
- Employers must pay at least the salary threshold for the sponsored job role.
Conclusion
Understanding who qualifies as a sponsor for a UK visa is essential for a successful immigration application. Whether you’re joining family, starting a job, studying, or launching a business, your sponsor plays a vital role in verifying your eligibility and supporting your stay.
By ensuring your sponsor is authorized, financially capable, and compliant with UK immigration rules, you can strengthen your application and move confidently toward securing your UK visa.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.