Self-Sponsorship in the UK

Although the UK does not have a specific "self-sponsorship" visa, there are pathways allowing non-UK citizens to start and run their own business in the UK. The Skilled Worker visa is one such route, enabling individuals to work in a UK-based business they own, as long as it meets the requirements for sponsoring foreign workers. Another potential option is the Innovator Founder visa, designed for entrepreneurs with new and innovative business ideas.

Due to the complexity of self-sponsorship, consulting a UK immigration specialist is strongly recommended to ensure compliance and a successful application process.

What is Self-Sponsorship?

Self-sponsorship is an immigration approach where non-UK entrepreneurs set up a UK business that can sponsor their own Skilled Worker visa. This pathway lets individuals work for their own company without needing an external employer. The process involves setting up a legitimate UK business, obtaining a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, and sponsoring oneself as an employee for a qualifying role.

The UK does not have a dedicated self-sponsorship visa, but you can achieve self-sponsorship by meeting the requirements for the Skilled Worker visa route. By setting up or acquiring a UK business and securing a sponsor licence, your company can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), allowing you to apply for a Skilled Worker visa. This method is ideal for entrepreneurs who want both control and flexibility over their UK work arrangements.

The Self-Sponsorship Process

Step 1: Establish a UK Business

Start by setting up a UK-based company, either by registering a new one or acquiring an existing business. Key actions include:

• Registering the Company: File with Companies House and select an appropriate structure, such as a limited company.

• Ensuring Viability: Your business must meet legal, tax, and operational requirements and be capable of supporting your visa application.

Step 2: Apply for a Sponsor Licence

Once your company is registered, the next step is to apply for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence from the UK Home Office.

• Purpose: This licence authorizes your company to sponsor migrant workers under the Skilled Worker route, including yourself.

• Documentation: UKVI requires proof that your business is legitimate, has a genuine job offer, and can monitor compliance.

• Processing Time: Applications generally take up to 8 weeks if no additional checks are required.

Step 3: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

With the sponsor licence in place, your company can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). You can then use this CoS to apply for a Skilled Worker visa.

• Requirements: You must meet specific job skills, salary thresholds, demonstrate English proficiency, and show financial stability.

• Processing: Standard processing takes several weeks, with options for priority processing if needed.

Step 4: Maintain Compliance

Once your visa is granted, you must ensure ongoing compliance with UKVI requirements.

• Monitoring: All sponsored employees, including yourself, must stay within approved roles and salary levels.

• Record-Keeping: Keep accurate records of employment, including job roles and any role changes.

• Licence Maintenance: Failure to meet compliance could lead to the revocation of your sponsor licence, impacting visa status.
  

Additional Option: Innovator Founder Visa

For entrepreneurs with unique business ideas, the Innovator Founder visa may be an alternative. This visa does not require a sponsor licence but does require endorsement from an approved body and typically includes different financial criteria.

Contact Us

Navigating self-sponsorship can be complex, and UK immigration law requires attention to detail and compliance. To discuss visa options for running your own business or working for yourself in the UK please reach out to us for expert guidance.