UK Self Sponsorship Visa

Is there a self-sponsorship visa UK?

In the United Kingdom, the term ‘Self Sponsorship Visa’ doesn’t refer to a specific visa category. Instead, it denotes a unique strategy under the UK immigration system. This approach utilizes the Skilled Worker visa, enabling business owners to sponsor their own stay in the UK. Essentially, this means an individual can establish or be actively involved in a UK-based business and use this as a basis for their visa application. This innovative pathway is designed for entrepreneurs and business owners who seek to contribute to and benefit from the UK’s dynamic business environment.

The Skilled Worker visa is a cornerstone of the UK’s immigration system, catering specifically to skilled workers from around the globe. This visa allows individuals with job offers in the UK to live and work in the country. It’s particularly suited for professionals who have specific skills that are in demand in the UK economy. The Skilled Worker visa offers a route to long-term residency and potential settlement in the UK. Key benefits include access to a wide range of job markets, the ability to bring family members as dependents, and the opportunity to integrate into the UK’s diverse cultural landscape.

  • Job Offer: A job offer from a UK employer in an eligible occupation.
  • Skill Level: The job must meet the appropriate skill level as defined by the UK immigration rules.
  • Salary Threshold: Compliance with the minimum salary requirement, which varies depending on the job.
  • English Language Proficiency: Demonstrating B1 level proficiency in the English language.
  • Points-Based System: Achieving the required points in the UK’s immigration points-based system.
  • Sponsorship Management: Appointing appropriate personnel to manage sponsorship duties.
  • Record Keeping: Keeping detailed records of employees’ immigration status and work activities.
  • Genuine Business Need: Evidence that the company requires skilled workers from overseas.
  • Company Eligibility: The company must be operating legally in the UK.
  • HR Systems Compliance: Robust systems to monitor and track sponsored employees.

Under the Skilled Worker visa route, the genuine vacancy requirement plays a crucial role, especially for self-sponsorship cases. This requirement ensures that:

  • Legitimacy of the Role: The job being offered is genuine and not created solely to facilitate entry into the UK.
  • Business Necessity: The role must meet the actual needs of the business, indicating that the position is essential and not superfluous.
  • Impact on Application Integrity: Adherence to this requirement is vital for maintaining the integrity of the visa application. Any indication that the role is not genuine could lead to the refusal of the visa application.

Meeting the genuine vacancy requirement is fundamental in demonstrating the validity and sincerity of both the business need and the visa application.

Applying for a Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship involves several key steps:

  • Establish or Own a UK Business: Ensure you have a legitimate business in the UK.
  • Obtain a Sponsor Licence: Apply for and secure a sponsor licence for your business.
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Once the licence is obtained, assign a CoS to yourself.
  • Complete the Visa Application: Fill out the Skilled Worker visa application form online.
  • Submit Required Documents: Provide all necessary supporting documents.
  • Pay Visa Fees and Healthcare Surcharge: Ensure all applicable fees are paid.
  • Wait for Decision: Processing times can vary based on where the application is made from.

This process allows business owners to legally sponsor their stay in the UK,

To successfully complete the self-sponsorship visa application form:

  • Access the Form Online: The form can be found on the official UK government immigration website.
  • Accurate and Complete Information: Ensure all details are correct and complete to avoid delays or refusals.
  • Personal and Business Details: Fill in both your personal information and details about your UK business.
  • Review Before Submission: Double-check all entries for accuracy.

Accuracy and thoroughness are key when completing the application to avoid any complications in the visa process.

For a self-sponsorship visa application, you will need to provide several supporting documents, including:

  • Passport and Identification: Valid passport and any other ID documents.
  • Proof of Business Ownership: Documents showing your ownership or involvement in the UK business.
  • Financial Evidence: Proof of your financial ability to support yourself in the UK.
  • English Language Proficiency: Evidence of meeting the English language requirement.
  • Certificate of Sponsorship: The CoS from your UK business.
  • Criminal Record Certificate: If required, based on your job.

These documents are essential to demonstrate eligibility and compliance with the Skilled Worker visa requirements.

The cost of a Skilled Worker visa for self-sponsored applicants varies:

  • Application Fee: Ranges from £479 to £1,423, depending on factors like the visa duration and whether the application is made from inside or outside the UK.
  • Healthcare Surcharge: Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is typically £624 per year.

These costs are subject to change, and applicants should check the latest fees on the official UK government website.

The processing time for a Skilled Worker visa is as follows:

  • Outside the UK: Approximately 3 weeks.
  • Inside the UK: Around 8 weeks.

These times can vary based on specific circumstances such as the need for additional documentation verification or attending an in-person interview.

Dependants of Skilled Worker visa holders can also apply:

  • Who Can Apply: Spouses, partners, and children under 18.
  • Requirements: They must meet certain eligibility criteria, including relationship proof and maintenance funds.
  • Visa Duration: Their visa typically ends on the same date as the main applicant’s visa.

Applying for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence involves several steps:

  • Determine Eligibility: Ensure your business is eligible to apply. This typically means having a genuine business operating in the UK.
  • Online Application: Complete the online application on the UK government’s website. This requires information about your business and the type of workers you intend to sponsor.
  • Documentation: You’ll need to provide documents proving your business’s legitimacy, such as registration documents, proof of trading, and details about the roles you plan to sponsor.
  • Compliance: Be prepared to demonstrate your ability to comply with sponsorship duties. This includes having systems in place to monitor sponsored employees.
  • Submission and Payment: Submit the application along with the necessary fee.

To obtain a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, the following documents are typically required:

  • Company Registration Documents: Certificates of incorporation or similar legal documents.
  • Proof of Business Operations: Evidence of trading such as bank statements, VAT registration, and financial statements.
  • Organisational Structure: A detailed chart showing the structure of your company.
  • HR Policies: Documentation of your HR procedures, including how you will monitor and track sponsored employees.

The cost of a Skilled Worker sponsor licence depends on the size and type of your business:

  • Small or Charitable Sponsors: Lower fees, typically around £536.
  • Medium or Large Sponsors: Higher fees, which can be significantly more than for smaller businesses.

These fees are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the latest information on the UK government’s website.

The time it takes to obtain a Skilled Worker sponsor licence can vary:

  • Typical Processing Time: Generally, it takes around 8 weeks from the submission of the application.
  • Factors Affecting Processing Time: This can be longer if additional information or checks are required. Unannounced compliance visits or the need to clarify application details can extend this timeframe.

It’s important to apply well in advance of when you plan to sponsor any employees to account for any potential delays. For the latest and most detailed information, visiting the UK government’s website is recommended.

The Innovator Founder Visa offers a unique opportunity for self-employed individuals aiming to establish a business in the UK. This visa is designed for those with a novel, viable, and scalable business idea. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Requirements: Applicants must have their business idea endorsed by an approved body, demonstrating innovation, viability, and scalability.
  • Investment: A minimum investment of £50,000 is generally required, unless the business is already established and has been endorsed for an earlier visa.
  • English Proficiency: Evidence of English language ability to at least B2 level.
  • Application Process: Submit an online application, including the endorsement letter, evidence of investment funds, and other supporting documents.

The Innovator Founder Visa not only allows self-employed individuals to start and grow their business in the UK but also leads to the possibility of settlement in the country.

Book Your Personalised Consultation Now!

Office Address

Lyndon House, 62 Hagley Road, Birmingham, B16 8PE

Phone Number

0121 374 0138

Email Address

info@sabrancapital.com

Send Us A Message

Residency programs

Real Estate

Citizenship programs

Business in UK & UAE

Disclaimer: The information on SabranCapital.com relating to investments is for general informational purposes only and is not professional financial advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. We do not endorse any specific financial strategies or products mentioned on the site. SabranCapital.com is not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided here. We reserve the right to change this disclaimer at any time.

Copyright © 2021-2024. All rights reserved.