Introduction
One of the most important steps when applying for a Skilled Worker Visa is making sure your future employer has the right to sponsor you. Not every UK company can hire overseas workers. Only those with a valid sponsor licence can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is required for your visa application. Here is a simple guide to checking if an employer can sponsor you.
Step 1: Use the Official Government List
The UK Home Office publishes a list of all employers licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker Visa applicants. This is known as the Register of Licensed Sponsors.
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It is updated regularly
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It includes the employer’s name, type of licence, and categories of workers they can sponsor
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You can download it for free from the official government website
Step 2: Confirm the Employer’s Licence Type
Employers may be licensed to sponsor:
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Skilled Worker visas
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Temporary Worker visas
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Or both
Make sure your potential employer is licensed specifically for Skilled Worker visas, as temporary licences do not cover long-term work sponsorship.
Step 3: Ask the Employer Directly
If you are unsure, ask the employer’s HR or recruitment team:
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Do they hold a Skilled Worker sponsor licence?
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Can they provide a Certificate of Sponsorship if you are successful?
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Have they sponsored overseas workers before?
Step 4: Be Aware of Red Flags
Avoid companies that:
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Promise sponsorship without being on the official register
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Ask you to pay for a Certificate of Sponsorship (this is illegal)
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Cannot explain how their sponsorship process works
Why This Matters
Without a licensed employer, you cannot apply for a Skilled Worker Visa. Choosing the right employer saves time, money, and avoids disappointment.
Conclusion
Checking if an employer can sponsor you is an essential step in your UK job search. Always review the official list, confirm the type of licence, and ask the employer directly. With the right sponsor, you can secure a Certificate of Sponsorship and take the next step towards a Skilled Worker Visa.
