Self-Sponsorship Visa: Supporting Documents for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa
Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa through self-sponsorship in the UK involves demonstrating that you can sponsor yourself as a skilled worker through your own business. Providing the right supporting documents is crucial to prove that you meet all the requirements set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
In this guide, we’ll cover the essential documents needed for a successful self-sponsorship visa application, ensuring you are well-prepared to navigate the process.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essential documents needed for a successful self-sponsorship visa application, ensuring you are well-prepared to navigate the process.
Essential Supporting Documents
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa through self-sponsorship, you will need to provide several supporting documents that demonstrate your eligibility. These documents generally fall into three main categories: business-related, personal, and financial.
Business-Related Documents:
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): A valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your own UK-based company. This document should detail the job role, salary, and employment terms.
Sponsor Licence Certificate: Proof that your company has been granted a sponsor licence by the UK Home Office. This certificate allows your company to issue Certificates of Sponsorship.
Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan demonstrating the viability of your business. It should include financial forecasts, market analysis, and details about how your business will generate revenue.
Proof of Business Registration: A copy of your company’s registration certificate from Companies House, confirming that your business is legally established in the UK.
VAT Registration Certificate (if applicable): If your business is VAT-registered, provide the certificate to demonstrate compliance with tax regulations.
Active Trading Evidence: Documents that prove your business is actively trading, such as contracts, invoices, sales receipts, and evidence of business activities.
Office Lease Agreement: Proof of a physical office address in the UK, such as a lease agreement, if applicable.
Personal Documents:
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK. Ensure it has at least one blank page for the visa.
English Language Proficiency Test: Proof of English language proficiency at a B1 level or higher on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) scale. Acceptable tests include IELTS for UKVI or other approved language tests.
TB Test Results (if applicable): If you are from a country where you must take a tuberculosis (TB) test for UK visa applications, provide a valid TB test certificate.
Proof of Qualifications: Copies of your educational and professional qualifications that match the requirements of the job role you intend to sponsor yourself for.
Financial Documents:
Bank Statements: Recent personal bank statements (usually covering the last 3-6 months) showing that you have enough savings to support yourself in the UK. The required amount is typically at least £1,270.
Business Bank Account Statements: Evidence of a separate business bank account in the UK and recent statements demonstrating sufficient funds to support business activities.
Payslips or Dividend Vouchers (if applicable): If you have already started paying yourself a salary or dividends from the business, provide payslips or dividend vouchers as proof of income.
Financial Projections: Detailed financial projections for your business, including cash flow forecasts and profit and loss statements for the next 12 to 24 months.
Key Requirements:
- All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
- Ensure all documents are up-to-date and clearly show the necessary details required by UKVI.
- Copies of documents should be clear and legible, and originals may need to be presented at a biometric appointment.
What You Can and Can’t Do with Insufficient Documentation
What You Can Do:
- Increase your chances of visa approval by providing thorough, clear, and accurate documents.
- Ensure all business-related documents show that your business is active, compliant, and capable of sponsoring a skilled worker.
- Demonstrate personal and financial stability to support your stay in the UK without relying on public funds.
- What You Can’t Do:
- Submit incomplete or inaccurate documents, as this could lead to visa refusal.
- Overlook the need for certified translations if any documents are not in English.
- Ignore the requirements for specific documents, like the CoS or financial evidence, as this is essential for demonstrating eligibility.
Preparing for Submission
It is crucial to gather and review all supporting documents before submitting your self-sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa application. Consider seeking legal or professional advice to ensure that all documents meet UKVI standards and requirements.
Ready to Apply?
The supporting documents for a self-sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa play a critical role in the success of your application. By preparing the right documents and ensuring they meet all UKVI criteria, you can increase your chances of a successful application.
If you need assistance in preparing your supporting documents or have questions about the requirements, our team is here to guide you through the process.
If you need assistance in preparing your supporting documents or have questions about the requirements, our team is here to guide you through the process.
