There is no dedicated “Self-Sponsorship Visa” in the UK. Instead, self-sponsorship involves establishing a UK company that sponsors you—as its director or employee—under the Skilled Worker visa. This approach lets entrepreneurs relocate to the UK, work for their own business, and serve as both employer and employee through their registered company, offering full operational control alongside a lawful route to live and work.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for self-sponsorship through the Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- – Hold a genuine, eligible role at RQF Level 6 or above on the approved occupation list (SOC code)
- – Receive a salary meeting or exceeding the higher of £41,700 or the occupation ‘going rate’ (personal investments cannot count toward salary)
- – Demonstrate CEFR B2 level English proficiency through an approved test or qualification
- – Have your UK company approved with a valid Home Office Sponsor Licence
- – Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your company confirming job details, salary, and duties
- – Meet financial maintenance requirements and pass suitability checks
Key risks and considerations
Self-sponsorship faces strict Home Office scrutiny to ensure your business and role are genuine. Your company must maintain full sponsor compliance (HR systems, reporting, record-keeping), and significant changes to duties or structure may require re-sponsorship.
Application Process
The self-sponsorship process follows these steps:
- Incorporate a UK Company: Establish a legally registered company with a UK address, bank account, and PAYE system.
- Apply for a Sponsor Licence: Submit the licence application, appoint key personnel, and liaise with UKVI to secure approval.
- Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): The company issues a CoS for your role, ensuring compliance with job code and salary requirements.
- Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa: Submit your visa application with supporting documentation, including English language evidence and proof of identity.
- Maintain Compliance: Manage ongoing sponsor duties, maintain the business, and plan for future visa extensions or ILR.
Duration of stay
The initial Skilled Worker Visa granted through self-sponsorship is valid for up to 5 years. You can extend your visa by meeting the ongoing sponsorship and salary requirements with your UK company. This route offers a clear pathway to permanent settlement and eventual British citizenship in the UK. After 5 years of continuous lawful residence on the Skilled Worker route, you become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for settlement.
Work rights
With a self-sponsored Skilled Worker Visa, you have full rights to work for your UK company in the role specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). You can work as a director, employee, or both, with complete flexibility to manage business operations, hire staff, and develop your company. Unlike traditional sponsored roles, self-sponsorship gives you control over your employment terms while meeting Home Office salary and compliance requirements.
FAQs
Can I sponsor myself if I own a UK company?
Yes. As a director or employee of your own UK company, you can sponsor yourself for a Skilled Worker Visa provided your company holds a valid Home Office sponsor licence and the role meets all eligibility criteria.
Does my company need a sponsor licence first?
Yes. Your UK business must obtain a sponsor licence before assigning you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). We can guide you through the full licence application process, from company structure review to UKVI approval.
What roles qualify for self-sponsorship?
Your role must appear on the list of eligible occupations (SOC codes) and meet the required skill level (RQF Level 6 or above). Common self-sponsored roles include IT professionals, managers, engineers, and business consultants.
How long does the sponsor licence process take?
Standard processing takes 8 weeks, but priority and super-priority services (1-5 working days) are available for an additional fee. We handle all documentation and UKVI correspondence to expedite approval.
Can my family join me on this visa?
Yes. Your partner and children under 18 can apply as dependants if you meet the financial requirements and provide adequate accommodation. We assist with their applications alongside yours.
What happens if my sponsor licence is refused?
Common reasons include incomplete documentation or company ineligibility. You can request a review or reapply after addressing issues. Our team helps identify and resolve problems before submission.
Does self-sponsorship lead to ILR?
Yes. After 5 years of continuous residence on the Skilled Worker route, you become eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you maintain compliance throughout.
Can I change my job or business after approval?
Yes, but you must update your sponsor licence records and obtain a new CoS for any significant changes. We provide ongoing compliance support to handle updates smoothly.
Do I need to prove English language ability?
Yes, unless exempt by nationality. You must demonstrate proficiency at CEFR level B2 through an approved test or qualification.
How we can help
We provide expert support to help you secure self-sponsorship through the Skilled Worker Visa with confidence. Our services include reviewing your UK company structure to ensure it meets Home Office sponsor licence requirements, assessing whether your proposed role qualifies under Skilled Worker visa rule, advising on salary thresholds, job codes, and duties for full compliance.
We assist in preparing your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and Skilled Worker Visa application, as well as supporting dependant applications and providing ongoing sponsor compliance guidance. With our detailed guidance and professional expertise, your self-sponsorship application will be prepared thoroughly to give you the best chance of success.