What is a sponsor licence?

In order to recruit individuals from outside the UK who do not otherwise have the right to work in the UK, employers must have a valid sponsor licence. An employer with a sponsor licence will then agree to sponsor an individual that is working for them and this allows the individual to apply for their work visa.

The licence comes with many strict compliance conditions that must be met at all times, otherwise the licence may be downgraded or revoked – read more about sponsorship duties here.

The Workers licence can cover both Skilled Worker and ICT visas and you can also hold a sponsor licence to sponsor Temporary Workers too.

Read more about this and other questions in our

Sponsor licences section.

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Disclaimer

Given the fast pace of change, we would stress that this information is designed to be informative, not advisory and represents our understanding of English law and practice as at the date indicated. We would always recommend that you should seek specific guidance on any particular legal issue.

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