The Ultimate Guide to Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa in the UK

Are you an entrepreneur eager to expand your business into the UK or already own a UK-based company? If so, you may qualify for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa, allowing you to sponsor yourself through your own company. This visa not only grants you long-term residence but can also lead to permanent settlement in the UK. Plus, your dependent family members—spouse and children—can join you on this journey.

What is a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa?

A Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa enables business owners and entrepreneurs to live and work in the UK by establishing or using an existing UK-based business to sponsor their visa. Unlike other visa routes, you don’t need a third-party employer; instead, your company acts as your sponsor, provided it obtains a Skilled Worker sponsor licence.

Eligibility Criteria for Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa

To qualify for the Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Own or be employed by a legally registered UK business
• Ensure your company has a Skilled Worker sponsor licence
• Obtain a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK business
• Prove your job offer is genuine and meets skill level requirements
• Meet the salary threshold, including the minimum general salary requirement and ‘going rate’ for your occupation
• Demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR Level B1 (IELTS 4.0 equivalent)
• Show financial self-sufficiency without relying on public funds
• Provide any necessary criminal record or tuberculosis (TB) clearance certificates

Given the complexity of the application, seeking expert legal advice can significantly improve your chances of success.

Process to Apply for Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa

Establish Your UK Business

If you don’t already own a UK company, you need to register one. The good news? Foreign nationals can establish and operate a UK business remotely. There’s no requirement to be a UK resident to register a company.

Obtain a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence

Your UK business must secure a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence to sponsor your visa. The business should:

• Be a legally registered entity in the UK
• Have structured HR and recruitment systems in place
• Offer employment that meets the required skill and salary levels
• Submit supporting documents such as a corporate bank account statement, tax and VAT registration, insurance policies, and office lease agreements

Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once your sponsor licence is granted, your company can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The CoS includes crucial details such as job role, salary, start date, and job code.

Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

After receiving your CoS, you can proceed with your Skilled Worker Visa application.

• Processing times:
  • Outside the UK: Typically 3 weeks
  • Inside the UK: Up to 8 weeks
• Priority services may be available for faster processing.

Key Business Requirements for UK Operations

Your company doesn’t need to be actively trading at the time of application, but having the following enhances your credibility:

• A solid business plan
• Initial investment funds
• A functioning company website
• A UK corporate bank account
• A UK-based representative or director to handle sponsorship responsibilities

Financial & Employment Considerations

• There’s no minimum investment requirement, but your company should have enough funds to support business operations and pay salaries.
• Unlike other business visas, the Skilled Worker route doesn’t require innovation—any business type can qualify.
• Although not mandatory, a business plan strengthens your application.
• Your salary must meet the general and occupational salary thresholds.

Pathway to Permanent Settlement & Work Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of the Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa is the potential to obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years. Additionally, you can undertake supplementary employment alongside your sponsored role, giving you more flexibility.

Why Choose the Self-Sponsorship Route?

• Full control over your UK business and employment status
• Direct pathway to permanent residency
• No minimum investment requirement
• Option to bring family members to the UK
• More flexibility in business types

Conclusion: Your Future in the UK Starts Here

A Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa offers a strategic opportunity for entrepreneurs and business owners to establish themselves in the UK. By following the right steps from setting up your business to obtaining a sponsor licence and applying for a visa you can successfully secure your right to live, work, and grow your enterprise in the UK.

Navigating the UK immigration system can be challenging, but professional legal assistance can make the process seamless. If you're serious about expanding your business and securing your future in the UK, start your application today!