Are you dreaming of working in the United Kingdom? A UK work visa with visa sponsorship could be your ticket to making that dream come true. The UK offers great job opportunities, a vibrant culture, and a strong economy. But getting a work visa isn’t always simple.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process step-by-step. By the end, you’ll know how to get a UK work visa with visa sponsorship and start your journey.
What Is a UK Work Visa with Visa Sponsorship?
A UK work visa allows people from outside the UK to live and work there legally. Visa sponsorship means a UK employer agrees to “sponsor” you. They prove to the UK government that they need you for a job and will support your visa application. Without sponsorship, it’s tough to get a work visa unless you qualify for special cases (like having family in the UK).
The most common visa for this is the Skilled Worker Visa. It replaced the old Tier 2 visa and is perfect for people with a job offer from a UK company. Let’s dive into how you can get one!
Step 1: Check If You Qualify
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic rules for a UK work visa with sponsorship:
Job Offer: You need a job offer from a UK employer who has a sponsor license. Not every company can sponsor—only those approved by the UK Home Office.
Skill Level: The job must be skilled (like a nurse, engineer, or teacher). Low-skill jobs (like cleaners or laborers) usually don’t qualify.
Salary: The job must pay at least £25,600 per year (sometimes more, depending on the role).
English Skills: You need to prove you can speak, read, and understand English.
If your job offer checks these boxes, you’re off to a good start!
Step 2: Find a Job with Visa Sponsorship
Finding a UK job that offers visa sponsorship is the hardest part for many. Here’s how to do it:
Search Online: Use job websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, or the UK government’s “Find a Job” service. Type “visa sponsorship” along with your job title (e.g., “nurse visa sponsorship UK”).
Check Sponsor List: The UK government has a list of licensed sponsors. Look it up online—it’s called the “Register of Licensed Sponsors.” Contact companies on this list directly.
Network: Tell friends, family, or professionals in your field that you’re looking. Sometimes, a connection can introduce you to an employer.
Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies specialize in placing overseas workers in UK jobs with sponsorship.
Be patient. It might take weeks or months, but don’t give up!
Step 3: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once you have a job offer, your employer gives you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This isn’t a paper certificate—it’s a digital code. The employer applies for it through the UK Home Office and shares it with you. The CoS proves:
The job is real.
The employer is allowed to sponsor you.
Details like your salary and job title.
You’ll need this code later when you apply for the visa, so keep it safe.
Step 4: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
Now it’s time to apply for your UK work visa. Here’s what to do:
Go Online: Visit the UK government’s visa website (gov.uk). Find the Skilled Worker Visa application.
Fill Out the Form: Enter your details, job info, and the CoS number.
Pay the Fees: The visa costs between £610 and £1,408, depending on your situation. You’ll also pay a healthcare surcharge (about £624 per year) to use the UK’s NHS.
Upload Documents: You’ll need:
Your passport.
Proof of English skills (like an IELTS test result or a degree taught in English).
Bank statements showing you have £1,270 for living costs (unless your employer covers this).
Book an Appointment: After submitting online, book a visit to a visa center to give your fingerprints and photo.
The whole process takes about 3 weeks if you’re outside the UK.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
After applying, wait for the UK Home Office to decide. They’ll email you if your visa is approved. If yes, you’ll get a visa sticker (called a vignette) in your passport. This lets you enter the UK. Once you arrive, pick up your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days—it’s your official work visa card.
Step 6: Move to the UK and Start Working
With your visa approved, pack your bags! You can stay in the UK for up to 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa. After that, you can extend it or apply for permanent residency (called Indefinite Leave to Remain). Your employer will tell you when to start work—usually soon after you arrive.
Tips to Make It Easier
Start Early: Finding a sponsor and applying takes time. Begin months ahead of when you want to move.
Double-Check: Mistakes on your application can delay things. Read everything twice.
Save Money: Visa fees and moving costs add up. Plan your budget.
Learn About the UK: Knowing the culture and weather helps you settle in faster.
Who Can Sponsor You?
Not every company can sponsor a visa. Only businesses with a Sponsor Licence from the UK Home Office qualify. Big companies (like hospitals or tech firms) often have this, but small businesses might not. Ask your employer early if they’re licensed—it saves time.
Other UK Work Visas with Sponsorship
The Skilled Worker Visa isn’t the only option. Here are a few others:
Health and Care Worker Visa: For doctors, nurses, or social care workers. It’s cheaper and faster.
Global Business Mobility Visa: For workers sent to the UK by an overseas company.
Temporary Worker Visa: For short-term jobs (like seasonal work), but these are rare with sponsorship.
Check which one fits your job best!
Common Questions About UK Work Visa Sponsorship
Q: Can I bring my family?
Yes! Your spouse and kids under 18 can join you. They’ll need their own visa applications, though.
Q: What if I lose my job?
You get 60 days to find a new sponsor. If not, you might have to leave the UK.
Q: Do I need a degree?
Not always. Experience or skills can count, depending on the job.
Why Choose the UK?
The UK is a top choice for workers worldwide. It has high salaries, good healthcare, and a mix of cultures. Plus, a UK work visa with sponsorship can lead to permanent residency or even citizenship later. It’s a big step, but worth it for many!
Final Thoughts
Getting a UK work visa with visa sponsorship takes effort, but it’s doable. Find a job, secure a sponsor, apply carefully, and soon you’ll be working in the UK. Follow these steps, stay patient, and you’ll be on your way. Ready to start? Search for that sponsored job today and take the first step toward your UK dream!
