Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa Through Self-Sponsorship – Imtiaz and Co Solicitors Law firm in Glasgow

Skilled Worker Visa: Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa through Self-Sponsorship

The Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals to work in the UK for an approved employer in a job that is on the eligible occupations list. If you plan to apply through self-sponsorship, you will need to establish your own business or company in the UK and sponsor yourself as a skilled worker.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, to help you understand the process of applying for a Skilled Worker Visa through self-sponsorship.

Eligibility Criteria

You can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa through self-sponsorship if you:

Set up and manage a business in the UK.
Create a genuine job role that meets the required skill level.
Obtain a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your own UK-based company.
Offer a salary that meets the minimum threshold for the Skilled Worker Visa, which is usually at least £26,200 per year or the 'going rate' for the job, whichever is higher.

Key Requirements:

You must prove that your company is actively trading and compliant with UK business regulations.
You need to have a job offer from your own company that matches your skills and qualifications.
You must demonstrate English language proficiency at a B1 level or higher on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) scale.
You must show that you have sufficient personal savings to support yourself when you arrive in the UK.

What You Can and Can’t Do on a Skilled Worker Visa through Self-Sponsorship

What You Can Do:

Work in the UK for your own business that sponsors you.
Switch jobs within the same business, as long as the new role is eligible.
Bring family members (spouse, children) as dependents
Study, as long as it doesn’t interfere with your sponsored job.
Apply to settle in the UK after 5 years, provided all conditions are met.
Travel abroad and return to the UK.
What You Can’t Do:
Claim public funds or benefits.
Work for another employer that has not sponsored you.
Start working in a new job without updating your visa or getting a new Certificate of Sponsorship.

How Long Can You Stay on a Skilled Worker Visa?

You can stay in the UK for up to 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa. After this period, you can apply to extend your visa or settle permanently in the UK. To be eligible for permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain), you must meet all the necessary requirements, such as continuous residence, no breaches of immigration laws, and proof of income.

Visa Costs and Application Process

Here’s an overview of the costs involved:

Visa Application Process

Establish a Business in the UK: Register your company, ensure it is actively trading, and complies with UK regulations.
Obtain a Sponsor Licence: Apply for a sponsor licence from the UK Home Office to be able to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): As an employer, issue a CoS for yourself in a qualifying skilled role.
Complete the Online Application: Submit your Skilled Worker Visa application on the gov.uk website.
Prepare Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, such as proof of business activities, financial records, and English proficiency.
Attend a Biometric Appointment: Provide your fingerprints and photograph as part of the application process.
Wait for a Decision: Visa applications are generally processed within 8 weeks, though processing times may vary.

Here is a breakdown of the visa fees:

Ready to Apply?

The Skilled Worker Visa through self-sponsorship provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and business owners to work in the UK. With the right documentation, business setup, and meeting eligibility requirements, the process can be straightforward.

If you need assistance with your application or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help guide you through the process.