The demand for skilled workers outside the United Kingdom is playing a vital role in supporting many London businesses, whether that’s your tech startup in Shoreditch, a restaurant in Central London, or a healthcare agency. You may need to hire talent overseas to fill vital roles. For your business to hire workers who are not from the UK, you must apply for a Sponsor Licence from the Home Office.
This guide will explain everything you need to understand about applying for a Sponsor Licence in London, how to establish eligibility, the supporting documents, costs, and checklist to apply step-by-step.
What is a Sponsor Licence?
A Sponsor Licence is a formal endorsement given by the UK Home Office, allowing your company to hire skilled workers from overseas under the Skilled Worker visa and possibly other immigration routes. Without a licence, employers in London are not allowed to legally sponsor or employ non-UK nationals for work in their UK businesses.
Who Needs a Sponsor Licence in London?
If you are a London-based business intending to hire skilled workers from outside the UK and Ireland, you require a licence. Areas we commonly see employees from outside of the UK include:
IT & Technology firms that are hiring software engineers, developers, and data specialists.
Healthcare companies looking to hire nurses, care workers, and doctors.
Hospitality businesses, including hotels and restaurants.
Construction companies looking to hire skilled tradesmen.
If your business is expanding, and you are finding it difficult to locate local talent, having a Sponsor Licence gives you the opportunity to source skilled workers internationally.
Eligibility Criteria for a Sponsor Licence
Your London-based business must fulfill the following critical prerequisites before applying:
Registered UK Business – This means you are lawfully operating your business in the UK and have a physical address.
Legitimate Need for Foreign Workers – You must show that the job roles are real roles and cannot be fulfilled in the domestic labor market.
HR and Compliance Systems in Place – You must have sufficient systems to monitor sponsored workers and ensure compliance with UK immigration rules.
No Previous Immigration Offenses – Your company must have no previous history with the Home Office.
Documentation Required
If you are applying for a Sponsor Licence in London, you will be required to provide:
Business bank statements
VAT registration certificate
Proof of premises (lease or utility bill)
Employer’s liability insurance certificate
Most recent audited accounts
Evidence of registration with HMRC
This is not an exhaustive list and the particulars required will depend on your business size and sector.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Sponsor Licence in London
Identify the Type of License
Temporary Worker License
Some employers may require both licenses depending on hiring intentions.
Compile Your Documentation
Gather required business documents and documentations to compliance measures to support your application.
Appoint Key Personnel
Designate such positions, i.e.:
Authorising Officer (who will oversee compliance)
Key Contact (entirely responsible for being the point of contact with the Home Oifice)
Level 1 User (will oversee the daily management of the license)
Submit the Online Application Form
Complete the Home Office Online application and pay the relevant fees.
Send Supporting Documents
Submit either the documents online or via postal methods within five working days of your application.
Home Office Review
The Home Office may undertake a compliance visit to your London office before the confirmation of approval.
Typical Causes of Refusal
London businesses may experience delays or refusals due to:
Lack of full documentation
Weak HR systems for compliance
Non-compliance with previous immigration
Failing the Home Office inspection of the site
Having an experienced immigration consultant or an immigration lawyer in London can improve your chances of succeeding.
Why Use an Expert in London?
Applying for a Sponsor Licence can be a difficult and lengthy process. Immigration experts in London can do the following:
Prepare and review your application
Ensure the HR systems you have comply
Liaise with the Home Office
Reduce the risk of making mistakes or refusals that could be expensive.