How to Find a UK Skilled Worker Visa Sponsor in 2025

How to Find a UK Skilled Worker Visa Sponsor in 2025

Finding a UK employer willing to sponsor your Skilled Worker visa can feel daunting, but with the right strategy, it's entirely achievable. This guide walks you through the process from start to finish.

Step 1: Understand the Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker visa replaced the old Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020. To qualify, you need:

• A job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence
• A job at the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above)
• A salary that meets the minimum threshold (generally £38,700 or the going rate for your occupation, whichever is higher)
• English language proficiency at B1 level or above

Step 2: Search the Register of Sponsors

The Home Office publishes a Register of Licensed Sponsors — a public list of every UK employer approved to sponsor workers. You can download this list directly from GOV.UK and filter it by employer name, location, or visa route.

Our own Skilled Worker Sponsors directory makes this even easier. You can search by company name, industry, or region to find potential employers near you.

Step 3: Target Your Job Search

Once you have a shortlist of licensed sponsors, tailor your job search:

• Visit employer career pages directly — many licensed sponsors advertise roles on their own websites.
• Use job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor, and filter for visa sponsorship where possible.
• Attend recruitment fairs and networking events, both virtual and in-person.
• Work with specialist recruiters who focus on placing international candidates.

Step 4: Tailor Your Applications

When applying to potential sponsors:

• Highlight your right to work situation upfront — explain that you require sponsorship.
• Emphasise your unique skills and what you bring that a UK-based candidate may not.
• Demonstrate cultural fit and your understanding of the UK work environment.
• Be transparent about timelines — the visa process typically takes 3–8 weeks.

Step 5: Prepare for the Certificate of Sponsorship

Once an employer offers you a role, they will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is not a physical document but a reference number used in your visa application. Your employer handles this through their sponsor management system.

You'll then need to:

• Pay the visa application fee (currently £719 for up to 3 years)
• Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year)
• Provide supporting documents including your passport, proof of English, and financial evidence

Tips for Success

• Start early — the process from job search to visa approval can take several months.
• Be flexible on location — consider roles outside London where competition may be lower.
• Build your network — many roles are filled through referrals before they're advertised.
• Stay informed — immigration rules change frequently, so keep up with the latest guidance.

Final Thoughts

Securing a UK Skilled Worker visa sponsor takes patience and persistence, but thousands of people succeed every year. Use the tools and strategies above, keep refining your approach, and don't be discouraged by setbacks. Your UK career is within reach.