The UK Self Sponsored Skilled Worker Visa is a pathway for non-UK citizens who wish to live and work in the United Kingdom by sponsoring themselves through their own business. This visa route allows individuals to establish or invest in a UK-based company, which can then apply for a sponsor licence from the Home Office. Once the company is licensed, it can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the individual, enabling them to apply for the Skilled Worker visa.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Self Sponsored Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

1. Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
2. Established UK Company: There must be an active and genuine UK company that has been established either by the applicant or is already owned by them.
3. Sponsor License: The UK company must have successfully applied for and obtained a Skilled Worker sponsor license from the Home Office.
4. Certificate of Sponsorship: The company must assign a valid CoS to the applicant for a genuine job vacancy.
5. Job Offer: The job offer must be real and not fictitious, ensuring that there is a legitimate need for the role within the company.
6. Skill Level: The job must meet an appropriate skill level as defined by the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes used in the UK.
7. Salary Thresholds: The applicant’s salary must meet both a general salary threshold and the ‘going rate’ for their specific occupation as per SOC codes.
8. Immigration Skills Charge: The sponsor (the business) must pay any required Immigration Skills Charge associated with employing skilled workers.
9. English Language Proficiency: Applicants need to demonstrate English language proficiency at least at CEFR Level B1 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0).
10. Financial Stability: Applicants should have sufficient funds to support themselves without relying on public funds upon arrival in the UK.
11. Criminal Record Certificate: If required, applicants may need to provide evidence of their criminal record status.
12. Tuberculosis Certificate: A valid TB certificate may also be necessary depending on the applicant’s country of origin.

Given these requirements, it is advisable for potential applicants to consult with an immigration lawyer or specialist who can provide tailored advice based on individual circumstances.

Application Process

The application process consists of several key stages:

Establishing a UK Company:

• Individuals can either register a new business or acquire an existing one in the UK.
• Registration involves choosing an appropriate business structure (e.g., limited company) and complying with legal obligations set forth by Companies House.
• Non-UK residents can register companies in the UK without needing local residency but should consider appointing a representative if they cannot fulfill certain duties personally.

Applying for a Sponsor License:

• After establishing a business, it is crucial to apply for a Skilled Worker sponsor license
• The Home Office will assess whether the business is genuine and capable of fulfilling its sponsorship duties effectively.
• This includes demonstrating that there are genuine employment opportunities that meet skill and salary requirements.

Assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS):

• Once licensed, the business can assign a COS to its owner or employee.
• This certificate confirms that there is an approved job offer available within the company.

Applying for the Skilled Worker Visa:

• With all previous steps completed, individuals can then apply for their Skilled Worker visa using their assigned COS.
• This application will involve submitting various documents proving eligibility, including proof of English language proficiency and financial stability.

Dependent Family Members:

• Successful applicants may also bring dependent family members such as partners and children under certain conditions related to their visa status.
• This self-sponsorship route offers flexibility and control over one’s career path while navigating immigration processes in the UK effectively.

For more enquiries on a UK self sponsored visa, book a consultation with a consultant with e-lhr