How to Apply for a Sponsor Licence Application: Step-by-Step Guide

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The UK’s immigration system requires employers and education providers who want to hire or admit non-UK nationals to first obtain a Sponsor Licence. Without this licence, organisations cannot legally issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) or enrol international students.

If you’re wondering how to apply for a sponsor licence application, this guide walks you through the entire process — from eligibility and required documents to fees, timelines, and compliance obligations.

Introduction: Understanding the Sponsor Licence

A Sponsor Licence is official approval from the UK Home Office that allows an organisation to employ skilled workers or sponsor international students. It acts as a legal framework ensuring that employers and institutions follow immigration laws while benefiting from global talent.

Who Needs a Sponsor Licence?

Not all employers need this licence, but many industries rely on it.

Employers hiring skilled workers

If you want to hire under the Skilled Worker visa route, a sponsor licence is essential.

Education institutions for student sponsorship

Universities, colleges, and schools that admit overseas students need a Student Sponsor Licence.

Temporary worker schemes

Seasonal work, charity workers, or religious workers require a Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence.

Eligibility Criteria Before Applying

To apply successfully, businesses must pass strict Home Office checks.

Business requirements

Your organisation must be genuine, lawfully operating, and financially stable.

Compliance and suitability checks

The Home Office may conduct site visits to ensure your HR systems can monitor sponsored workers.

Key personnel roles explained

You must appoint:

  • Authorising Officer – responsible for compliance

  • Key Contact – main Home Office liaison

  • Level 1 User – manages day-to-day licence duties

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Sponsor Licence

Step 1: Choose the right type of licence

Decide whether you need a Worker Licence, Temporary Worker Licence, or both.

Step 2: Prepare mandatory documents

Gather evidence proving your business legitimacy, financial stability, and HR compliance.

Step 3: Complete the online application form

Fill in the official application form on the UK Home Office website.

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Fees depend on your organisation’s size (see below).

Step 5: Submit documents within the deadline

All supporting documents must be sent to the Home Office within 5 working days of submitting the online form.

Documents Required for a Sponsor Licence Application

  • Business registration documents (Companies House, partnership agreements)

  • VAT registration certificate

  • Employer’s liability insurance

  • Proof of trading premises

  • HR policies and compliance records

These documents vary depending on your business type and licence category.

Costs and Fees of Applying

The cost depends on your organisation’s size:

  • Small businesses or charities: £536

  • Medium or large organisations: £1,476

Other costs include:

  • Certificate of Sponsorship allocation fees

  • Renewal fees (every 4 years)

  • Priority processing surcharge (optional)

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