What Are Certificates of Sponsorship?
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an essential document that employers in the UK must issue when hiring workers from outside the country. It contains detailed information about the job role and the prospective employee, including a reference number that the worker will need when applying for a visa.
Without a valid certificate of sponsorship, international workers cannot obtain a work visa, making it a crucial document in the employment process for those seeking to work in the UK. Understanding the role and importance of a CoS is vital for both employers and prospective workers.
What Is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an important document issued electronically by a licensed UK employer when they wish to hire a worker from outside the country. This certificate verifies that the employer has the legal right to sponsor foreign employees for work visas under UK immigration laws.
It contains essential information about both the job and the employee, such as the role offered, salary, and a unique reference number required for the visa application process.
The CoS is not a physical document but a digital record within the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system. Once issued, the individual worker uses the unique CoS reference number to apply for their specific visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa or an ICT visa.
By issuing a CoS, the employer confirms that the worker meets the necessary job qualifications and salary thresholds required for the visa.
Read about: List of Companies That Can Sponsor Visas in the UK
Why Is a Certificate of Sponsorship Important?
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) forms the foundation of the legal process that allows international employees to work in the UK.
Employers must demonstrate compliance with UK immigration laws and confirm that the job offered satisfies the demanded skill level and salary thresholds. Without this document, a work visa application cannot proceed.
For prospective employees, a CoS is crucial because it validates their job offer and makes them eligible to apply for a visa. It proves to the UK Home Office that the individual has a genuine employment opportunity that fits the legal requirements.
The CoS streamlines the visa process, ensuring all necessary conditions are met before the worker enters the UK labour market.
Get to know about:What Are the Requirements and Conditions for Obtaining a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence?
Types of Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS)
Employers in the UK can issue two variations of Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS): Defined CoS and Undefined CoS. These categories were introduced in 2020, replacing the older restricted and unrestricted terms.
Defined Certificates of Sponsorship
Defined CoS are specifically for Skilled Worker visa applicants who are applying from outside the UK. After obtaining a sponsorship licence, employers must request these certificates individually through the Sponsorship Management System (SMS).
The request is reviewed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), and once approved, the certificate can be assigned to the worker. This type of CoS is necessary for foreign workers not currently in the UK and is often processed within a single business day.
Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship
Undefined CoS are for workers applying for visas from within the UK, such as Skilled Workers already in the country or those switching between visa types. When an employer applies for a sponsorship licence, they must assess how many undefined certificates they will require for the initial year.
Employers can later adjust this number via the SMS system if additional certificates are required. Unlike defined CoS, once allocated, these certificates do not need to be individually approved for each worker.
Read about: Sponsor Licence Compliance: A Practical Guide
How To Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship
To apply for your organisation’s Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), you must first secure a sponsor licence from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Only organisations with A-rated sponsor licences are allowed to sponsor non-UK workers.
Once the licence is granted, you will access the Sponsorship Management System (SMS), where you can manage all aspects of the sponsorship process, including assigning CoSs to employees.
Here are the steps involved in the process:
1. Access the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)
Once your organisation has a valid sponsor licence, you can log into the SMS to request and assign a CoS. Only level 1 or 2 users within your organisation can access the system to handle sponsorship tasks.
2. Request a Defined or Undefined CoS
Depending on whether the worker is applying from outside or within the UK, you will need to request either a Defined CoS or an Undefined CoS:
For a Defined CoS (for workers applying from outside the UK), follow these steps:
- Log into the SMS.
- Choose “Defined CoS” from the “Workers” section.
- Enter the role details and the number of certificates required.
- Submit the request for UKVI approval. This is normally processed within one working day.
For an Undefined CoS (for workers already in the UK), you can assign a certificate from your existing allocation without requiring UKVI approval.
3. Assign the Certificate of Sponsorship
Once the CoS is approved or allocated, you can assign it to the worker by:
- Logging into the SMS.
- Entering the employee’s details and job information.
- Reviewing the information for accuracy and completing the assignment.
- Paying the required fees, including the immigration skills charge.
4. Issuing the CoS
Once assigned, the CoS will be issued electronically, and a unique reference number will be generated. The worker will use this reference number when applying for their visa. Ensure the certificate is used within three months, as it will expire if not used within that time frame.
By following these steps, you can smoothly obtain and issue Certificates of Sponsorship to foreign employees, allowing them to apply for visas and work lawfully in the UK.
Certificate of Sponsorship Fees
The expense of obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) varies depending on the type of worker being sponsored and the specific visa category.
- Worker: £239 per certificate
- Temporary Worker: £25 per certificate
- International Sportsperson (for more than 12 months): £239 per certificate
- International Sportsperson (for 12 months or less): £25 per certificate
Let Sponsor Licence Lawyers Assist You With Your Application
Obtaining a sponsor licence can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our experts at Sponsor Licence Lawyers are experts in handling every detail of the application process, helping you avoid common mistakes and ensuring full compliance with UK immigration laws.
Whether you need assistance with your first sponsor licence or managing your Sponsorship Management System (SMS), we’ve got you covered. Our experienced team will manage the legal intricacies, allowing you to concentrate on expanding your business and bringing the right talent on board.
Contact us today, and let us make your sponsorship process as smooth as possible.
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Disclaimer
Our articles serve as general guidance and should not be considered legal advice. We do not accept liability for any consequences resulting from reliance on the information provided in our written materials. All readers should seek professional counsel before making any decisions or taking action based on our articles. If you require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly for consultation with a qualified professional.
