Let Our Expert Legal Team Navigate the Complexities of Immigration Law on Your Behalf.
Secure Your Sponsorship Licence with Confidence
Applying for a UK Sponsorship Licence (formerly Tier 2) can be a complex, high-stakes process. The Home Office enforces strict requirements, and even small errors can lead to delays or outright refusal—putting your recruitment plans and operations at risk.
At Tide Solicitors, our experienced employment immigration lawyers offer strategic, end-to-end support to ensure your application is accurate, compliant, and positioned for approval. From assessing your eligibility to preparing comprehensive documentation, we help you navigate the legal intricacies with confidence.
Let us handle the complexities—so you can focus on growing your business.
For many business owners, securing and maintaining a Sponsorship Licence can be a complex and challenging process. However, with our expert guidance, success is well within reach. We excel at identifying potential pitfalls in applications and resolving them before they become major obstacles. To safeguard our clients against unexpected compliance issues, we provide a comprehensive compliance dossier alongside an intensive mock audit—a proactive strategy to ensure full readiness should the Home Office conduct an inspection.
Navigating the Sponsorship Licence application process is often daunting, filled with intricate regulatory requirements. Entrusting your Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence (formerly Tier 2 Sponsor Licence) application to a Tide immigration solicitor significantly increases your chances of approval. Let us handle the complexities so you can confidently focus on growing your business.
Poor advice can lead to costly delays and application refusals—risks no business can afford. That’s why we assign a dedicated UK immigration specialist to manage your case from start to finish, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and the best possible outcome.
Unexpected legal costs can be stressful. That’s why we offer fixed-fee services, so you know exactly what to expect—no hidden charges, no surprises, just transparent and upfront pricing.
Uncertainty can be frustrating when dealing with immigration matters. That’s why we guarantee a response to all messages and emails within 24 working hours—or we’ll refund 20% of your fees. Your case deserves prompt attention, and we’re committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.
Struggling to navigate the complexities of UK employer sponsorship licence regulations? Let the experts at Tide Solicitors guide you with confidence. Backed by over 1,000 positive reviews on Google and Trustpilot, and recognized among The Legal 500’s top UK law firms, we offer unrivaled expertise to safeguard your sponsor licence application.
Follow these three simple steps to secure success:
Take the stress out of the sponsorship licence process—partner with Tide Solicitors today.
A Sponsorship Licence is an official authorisation granted by the UK Home Office that enables businesses to employ skilled workers from overseas, including those on Skilled Worker Visas. Without this licence, UK employers are not legally permitted to hire non-UK workers.
Any UK-based business that complies with Home Office regulations is eligible to apply for a Sponsorship Licence. To qualify, a business must:
Be a legitimate and legally registered trading entity
Maintain appropriate HR and record-keeping systems to monitor sponsored employees
Have no history of immigration law violations or breaches
How to Apply for a Sponsorship Licence:
Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your business meets the Home Office criteria for sponsorship licence applicants.
Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents, such as proof of business registration, HR policies, and compliance records.
Submit Application: Complete and submit your application online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal.
Pay Fees: Pay the applicable application fee, which varies depending on your business size.
Prepare for Inspection: Be ready for a potential compliance visit from the Home Office before the licence is granted.
Key Documents Required for Your Sponsorship Licence Application:
✔ Proof of Business Registration: A valid Companies House certificate or equivalent.
✔ Employer’s Liability Insurance: Documentation confirming current insurance coverage.
✔ Financial Records: Recent financial statements and PAYE (Pay As You Earn) records.
✔ HR Compliance Policies: Clear policies and procedures to monitor and manage sponsored employees in line with Home Office requirements.
Standard processing usually takes 8 to 10 weeks. For faster service, businesses can choose the 10-day priority option at an additional cost. Please note, processing times may be extended if the Home Office requests further information or schedules a compliance visit.
Sponsorship Licence Application Fees
Small businesses & charities: £536
Medium & large businesses: £1,476
Additional costs apply for:
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issuance
Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) per sponsored worker
Yes. Common reasons for refusal or revocation include:
❌ Failure to meet compliance obligations
❌ Providing false or misleading information
❌ Inadequate HR processes to properly monitor sponsored employees
Address compliance issues flagged by the Home Office promptly.
Provide any additional evidence they request.
Improve your HR and record-keeping systems to meet required standards.
Once these steps are completed satisfactorily, you can apply for your licence to be reinstated.
A Sponsorship Licence is valid for 4 years. To renew:
Apply early: Submit the renewal through the UKVI Sponsor Management System (SMS) well before the expiry date (UKVI recommends at least 3 months in advance).
Demonstrate ongoing compliance: Make sure you’ve met all reporting, record‑keeping, and right‑to‑work obligations; UKVI may audit your files again.
Provide any requested updates: Be ready to upload recent HR policies, CoS records, financial statements, or other evidence UKVI asks for.
Pay the renewal fee: The amount depends on your company size (small/charitable vs. medium/large).
✔ Full‑Compliance Assurance – We keep your HR systems aligned with all Home Office rules.
✔ Pre‑Application Audits – Spot and fix issues in advance to minimise refusal risk.
✔ End‑to‑End Licence Management – Ongoing reporting help, renewal preparation, and prompt advice on any changes.
✔ Resolution of Complex Cases – Skilled representation for suspensions, downgrades, or other enforcement action.
Ready for worry‑free sponsorship compliance? Contact us today for a tailored consultation.
Let Tide Immigration take the stress out of your sponsor‑licence application. Our specialist immigration lawyers manage every detail, ensuring a smooth, compliant process—so you can stay focused on running your business with total peace of mind.
