🚨 Self-Sponsorship is NOT a Shortcut! 🚨 Thinking of self-sponsoring your Skilled Worker Visa? It’s a long-term commitment that requires time, a solid business plan, and the right strategy—not a last-minute solution when your Post-Study Work (PSW) visa is about to expire.
Understanding the Self-Sponsorship Route
There’s no such thing as a “Self-Sponsorship Visa” 🚫. Instead, it’s a Self-Sponsorship Route, where you:
✔️ Establish a UK-based business
✔️ Apply for a Sponsor Licence
✔️ Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to yourself
✔️ Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa to work in your company
Timeframe for the Process ⏳
The full process typically takes 8-9 months, divided into key phases:
✅ Business Setup & Compliance (2-3 months)
- Register your business with Companies House
- Open a business bank account
- Register for PAYE & Employer’s Liability Insurance
✅ Sponsor Licence Application & Approval (2-3 months)
- Ensure your business has a genuine need for a skilled worker
- Submit a well-prepared application to the Home Office
✅ Skilled Worker Visa Application & Approval (Around 2 months)
- Ensure your job role is on the UK Home Office’s Skilled Worker Occupation List
- Meet the salary requirements and visa conditions
Considering Buying a Running Business? 🚀
Purchasing an established business can potentially speed up the process. Websites such as RightBiz and Businesses for Sale list available businesses. However, take the following precautions:
1️⃣ Visit the premises to verify its legitimacy before making any payments.
2️⃣ Avoid third-party payments—always use a business bank account and never pay in cash.
3️⃣ Request official business bank account details before proceeding with any transactions.
How to Transition from PSW to a Skilled Worker Visa 🔄
If you’re currently on a PSW visa, follow these steps to transition:
1️⃣ Register as Self-Employed – You can legally start a business while on a PSW visa.
2️⃣ Set Up Your Business – Open a business bank account and register for PAYE with HMRC.
3️⃣ Establish Business Operations – Actively run your business to build credibility and financial stability.
4️⃣ Apply for a Sponsor Licence – Clearly define a job role for yourself within your business.
5️⃣ Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – Ensure your role is eligible under UK immigration rules.
6️⃣ Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa – Once you have a CoS, submit your visa application.
A well-structured business with active operations, financial transactions, and proper documentation is essential to qualify for self-sponsorship.
Can an Online Business Get a Sponsor Licence? 💻
Yes, but your business must meet the UK Home Office’s requirements, including:
✔️ Registered as a UK Limited Company
✔️ Physical presence (even if online, a registered office is required)
✔️ Active trading with a genuine need for an employee
✔️ Sufficient funds to meet salary thresholds
✔️ HR & Compliance Systems to track employee activities
The Home Office requires proof that your business is financially stable, generating revenue, and compliant with UKVI regulations.
📢 Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always check the UK Home Office website for the latest regulations.
#NaijaUKConnect #SelfSponsorshipUK #SkilledWorkerVisa #WorkInUK
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