Unlock Opportunities in the UK: Your Guide to the UK Sponsorship Visa
What is the UK Sponsorship Visa?
The UK Sponsorship Visa, also known as the Skilled Worker Visa, is designed for individuals who have been offered a skilled job in the UK by a licensed employer. This visa replaces the Tier 2 (General) Work Visa and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system. Successful applicants can stay in the UK for up to 5 years and may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after 5 years.
Benefits of the UK Sponsorship Visa
Work in the UK: Take up a skilled job with a licensed UK employer.
Stay for Up to 5 Years: Live and work in the UK for the duration of your visa.
Pathway to Settlement: Eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after 5 years.
Bring Your Family: Your spouse/partner and children under 18 can join you in the UK.
Access to Public Services: Use the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and other public services.
Eligibility Requirements for the Sponsorship Visa
To qualify for the UK Sponsorship Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor: You must have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor license.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer must provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) containing details of your job role.
Skill Level: The job must be at RQF Level 3 or above (equivalent to A-levels).
Salary Threshold: You must meet the minimum salary requirement of £26,200 per year or the going rate for your job, whichever is higher.
English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English language skills at CEFR Level B1 (e.g., IELTS 4.0 or equivalent).
Financial Requirements: Show that you have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days to support yourself in the UK.
Points-Based System
To qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa, you must score 70 points based on the following criteria:
Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor: 20 points
Job at an Appropriate Skill Level: 20 points
English Language Proficiency: 10 points
Salary Threshold: 20 points (or tradeable points for certain roles or qualifications)
Documents Required for the Sponsorship Visa
Valid passport or travel document.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certificate).
Bank statements showing £1,270 in savings for 28 consecutive days.
Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable).
Job title and annual salary (as stated in your CoS).
Proof of relationship with dependents (if applicable).
Passport-sized photographs.
Visa application fee payment receipt.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Secure a Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor license.
Receive Your CoS: Your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with a unique reference number.
Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents, including proof of finances and English language proficiency.
Complete the Online Application: Fill out the visa application form on the UK Government’s official website.
Pay the Visa Fee: The current fee for the Skilled Worker Visa is £719 (for up to 3 years) or £1,423 (for more than 3 years).
Pay the Healthcare Surcharge: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Book a Biometrics Appointment: Visit a visa application center to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
Submit Your Application: Submit your application and supporting documents online or at the visa application center.
Wait for a Decision: Processing times vary, but you can typically expect a decision within 3 weeks.
How We Can Help
At AITech Digital, we specialize in helping skilled professionals like you secure the UK Sponsorship Visa. Our services include:
Job Search Assistance: Connecting you with licensed UK employers.
Document Preparation: Ensuring all your documents meet UKVI requirements.
Application Support: Guiding you through the entire visa application process.
Interview Preparation: Providing tips and mock interviews to help you succeed.
Post-Visa Support: Assisting with relocation, accommodation, and settling in the UK.
Key Tips for a Successful Sponsorship Visa Application
Ensure your job offer is from a licensed UK sponsor.
Double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness.
Meet the minimum salary and skill level requirements.
Start the application process as early as possible.
Seek professional guidance to avoid common mistakes.
Contact Us Today!
Ready to take the next step in your career? Contact AITech Digital today for a free consultation. Let us help you secure your UK Sponsorship Visa and unlock new opportunities in the UK!
