The United Kingdom’s immigration system comprises various immigration programs that facilitate entry for individuals from outside the country to engage in activities such as tourism, working, studying, pursuing humanitarian causes, or reuniting with family members. However, a sponsoring employer is necessary for a number of visa pathways, particularly the ones involving employment. In this article, we will answer your questions on the best ways to immigrate to the UK with visa sponsorship in 2024.
What is the UK Sponsorship Visa?
First, it must be noted that the UK sponsorship visa majorly applies to employment opportunities. Only foreign workers who meet specific qualifications will have the opportunity to work in the UK through the sponsorship system for work visas. The process involves a UK company or educational institution agreeing to sponsor a foreign national, enabling them to apply for a visa to enter or remain in the UK for various purposes, such as work or study. This process is what is referred to as “UK visa sponsorship.” Sponsors must hold a license issued by the UK Home Office and meet certain criteria to comply with immigration regulations. Once approved, sponsors can issue certificates of sponsorship to migrant workers using their license, allowing them to apply for a visa to work in the UK. This sponsorship facilitates applications under various categories, including the Tier 4 visa for students and the Skilled Workers Visa for qualified professionals.
How do you Obtain a UK Sponsorship Visa?
For those looking for work, the UK has a number of sponsorship visa options; each one requires sponsorship by an eligible company. Among these routes are:
1. Visa for Skilled Workers
2. Visa for Health and Care Workers
3. Visas for Temporary Workers
4. Visas for International Business Mobility
5. Scale Up Worker (first six months of sponsorship)
Both the company and the employee must meet the particular standards and criteria for each of these pathways. In addition, people could have to submit an application to change into one of these groups in order to keep their legal status and go on working in the UK. For example, under the Graduate Route, persons are required to apply for new status or leave the UK after a fixed amount of time, often two years (three years if they possess a PhD). Transferring from the Graduate Route to the Skilled Worker visa is often required for this. The main topic of discussion in this article is the Skilled Worker visa, which replaced the Tier 2 General visa at the end of 2020. This is arguably the most common route for visa sponsorship in the UK.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
In December 2020, a new type of UK work visa called the Skilled Worker visa was introduced, taking the place of the Tier 2 (General) visa. It permits competent foreign workers to be employed by a UK company with a valid sponsorship license. A job offer at or above RQF level 3 (the equivalent of an A-level), meeting English language proficiency requirements, and reaching minimum income levels are important eligibility conditions. The visa is awarded via a point system; candidates must receive a minimum number of points according to factors including employment offer, skill level, salary, and English language proficiency. After a term of continuous residence in the UK, successful candidates are often granted permission to work in the UK for a maximum of five years, with the opportunity to extend or apply for settlement.
What are the Requirements for UK Sponsorship Visas in 2024
The points-based system introduces a specialized pathway for skilled workers with employment offers from approved sponsors. The pathway depends upon them attaining the requisite points based on factors such as their skill level, salary, and language abilities.
Applicants for these positions must exhibit proficiency in English and meet a minimum skill requirement equivalent to RQF3 or higher, akin to A-level qualifications. Also, their salary must meet the sponsor’s mandated salary level, set at either the general threshold of £26,200 (increasing to £38,700 in April) or the prevailing rate for their specific role. In instances where the salary falls short of this threshold but exceeds £20,480, candidates may still qualify by “trading” points against their salary, depending on certain criteria such as the role being in a shortage occupation or the candidate holding a relevant PhD.
Other things to note:
- Sponsor License Requirement: UK businesses must hold a sponsor license to sponsor skilled workers, except in cases where the worker already possesses legal status, allowing them to work in the country.
- Point Accumulation: Skilled migrants must amass a minimum of 70 points to be eligible for the visa, including demonstrating a job offer from an authorized sponsor and meeting English language proficiency standards.
- Minimum Wage Threshold: Candidates must earn at least the minimum wage threshold, which currently stands at £26,200 annually (rising to £38,700 in April) or the going rate for their specific role, whichever is higher.
- No Sponsorship Limit: There is no restriction on the number of skilled workers who can be sponsored through this avenue.
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How Can I Relocate to the UK With Sponsorship in 2024?
These are the steps you must take in order to migrate to the UK under sponsorship:
Step 1: Getting a job offer from a UK firm that is prepared to sponsor your immigration application is the first stage. The employer needs to have a current UK Home Office sponsorship license.
Step 2: Make sure you fulfil the requirements for the particular visa category for which you are applying. Sponsorship is often required for common visa pathways, such as the skilled worker visa.
Step 3: You can apply for the visa after receiving a work offer and sponsorship from a UK-based company. The online visa application form must be filled out, the application fee must be paid, and supporting documents such as your employment offer, verified qualifications, and proof of your ability to maintain yourself financially in the UK must be provided.
Step 4: Depending on your visa, you might have to show up for a biometrics appointment to submit your fingerprints and photo.
Step 5: Depending on the circumstances, you might have to attend an interview to submit a visa application.
Step 6: Following the submission of your visa application and any required appointments, you will have to wait for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to make a decision. Depending on the type of visa you apply for and your country of application, different processing times apply.
Step 7: If your application is granted, you’ll receive a visa stamp or sticker in your passport that allows you to enter the United Kingdom. Verify your visa’s validity dates and any associated conditions.
Now, you are ready to visit the UK but only for the duration of your visa validity after you have obtained one. In accordance with the conditions of your visa, you can begin working for your sponsoring employer as soon as you arrive in the UK.
How Can a Company in the UK Sign Up to Sponsor?
A company first needs to secure a licensed sponsor status in order to sponsor a skilled worker in the UK. This entails going through a rigorous application process with the Home Office to confirm the company’s legitimacy, legal compliance, and ability to carry out its sponsorship obligations. The “Workers” license and the “Temporary Workers” license are the two categories of sponsor licenses that are offered. A company needs to decide which kind of license best fits its needs before applying.
The ‘Workers’ license’ is meant for employing foreign nationals through a number of channels, such as the International Sportsperson, Minister of Religion, Global Business Mobility Senior or Specialist Worker (formerly called the Intra-company Transfer visa), and Skilled Worker visas. On the other hand, the ‘Temporary Worker’ license is designed for hiring people for brief periods of time and can be used for jobs like government trainees, charity workers, religious workers, scale-up workers, and creative workers, among others.
In order to be granted a sponsorship license, UK companies need to meet the following requirements:
1. Genuine Demand: The UK company must show that there is a real demand for migrant workers and that the job offer meets the skill level needed for the particular visa route.
2. No Bad History: The business must have a good record of adhering to immigration laws and cannot have had any licenses revoked in the previous year.
3. Sufficient System in Place: Companies need to set up processes that allow them to monitor and oversee their sponsored employees efficiently. This entails using the sponsor management and HR systems made available by the UK Visas and Immigration department.
4. Evidence of UK Operations: Establishing a UK branch or UK offices is proof that the business is lawfully conducting business in the UK.
5. Ability to Fulfill Sponsorship Duties: Employers must be able to carry out their sponsorship obligations, which include making sure migrant workers are legally permitted to work in the UK and quickly informing the Home Office of any changes to the worker’s circumstances.
6. Adherence to UK Work Regulations: The proposed job position must comply with UK labour laws on minimum wage and working hours. Failure to comply may result in the worker’s visa application being denied and the sponsor license possibly being revoked.
Best UK Companies for Sponsorship of Visas in 2024
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PricewaterhouseCoopers, or PwC
This renowned firm is a key player in the professional services and accounting sectors, offering a wide range of services including tax, audit, consulting, and advisory. PwC stands out for its presence in the UK and commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, providing visa sponsorship opportunities for immigrants keen on joining its workforce. With its extensive global network and stellar reputation, PwC is an attractive choice for immigrants looking to advance their careers.
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Ernst & Young (EY):
EY, a leading global professional services company, delivers tax, consulting, and advisory services to clients worldwide. In the UK, EY is recognized for its inclusive workplace culture and actively sponsors immigrant visas for various roles such as tax, advisory, consulting, and audit. With its collaborative atmosphere and focus on innovation, EY offers immigrants a promising platform to build successful careers in the professional services sector.
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Goldman Sachs:
A prominent player in financial services, Goldman Sachs is renowned globally for its expertise in investment banking, securities, and investment management. Goldman Sachs extends immigration visa sponsorship in the UK across diverse areas including asset management, sales and trading, and investment banking. Immigrants aspiring to make their mark in the finance industry find Goldman Sachs appealing due to its commitment to innovation and teamwork.
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J.P. Morgan:
As one of the largest investment banks worldwide, J.P. Morgan provides a range of financial services including wealth management, asset management, and investment banking. J.P. Morgan offers visa sponsorship for immigrants seeking employment in investment banking and related fields in the UK. With its strong global presence and reputation for excellence, J.P. Morgan provides immigrants opportunities to work on impactful projects and advance their financial careers.
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Deloitte:
Known for its expertise in audit, tax, consulting, and advisory services, Deloitte is an international professional services network. Deloitte sponsors immigration visas in the UK for various roles, enabling individuals to collaborate with leading companies and tackle complex business challenges. Immigrants aiming for success in the professional services sector find Deloitte attractive due to its innovative approach and inclusive environment.
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KPMG:
As a global professional services organization, KPMG offers audit, tax, and advisory services to clients worldwide. KPMG sponsors visas for immigrants seeking employment in accounting, consulting, and related fields in the UK. Immigrants drawn to careers in professional services value KPMG for its reputation for excellence, integrity, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
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Barclays:
Barclays is a multinational investment bank and financial services company headquartered in London, UK. With a rich history dating back over 300 years, Barclays is renowned for its expertise in banking and finance, offering a wide range of services including retail banking, corporate banking, investment banking, and wealth management. As a global player in the financial industry, Barclays is committed to innovation and diversity in its workforce. The company actively sponsors visas for talented individuals seeking opportunities in the world of banking and finance.
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National Health Services (NHS):
The National Health Service (NHS) is the publicly funded healthcare system in the United Kingdom, providing medical services to citizens and residents. With a network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities across the country, the NHS offers diverse career opportunities in various fields such as medicine, nursing, other health professions, administration, and support services. As a vital institution serving the healthcare needs of the UK population, the NHS is dedicated to recruiting skilled professionals from around the world and is willing to sponsor visas for qualified individuals seeking to contribute to the provision of high-quality healthcare services.
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McKinsey & Company:
McKinsey & Company is a renowned global management consulting firm, offering advisory services to businesses, governments, and institutions worldwide. With a focus on strategy, operations, and organizational transformation, McKinsey assists clients in solving complex challenges and achieving sustainable growth. Known for its rigorous analysis, innovative solutions, and collaborative approach, McKinsey attracts top talent from diverse backgrounds. The firm is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity and is willing to sponsor visas for exceptional individuals seeking to embark on a rewarding career in management consulting.
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Accenture:
Accenture is a leading global professional services company that provides a broad range of services in strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations. With a presence in over 120 countries, Accenture helps clients harness the power of technology and innovation to drive business transformation and create value. Accenture values talent from diverse backgrounds and actively supports immigration sponsorship for skilled professionals seeking opportunities in technology and consulting.
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GSK (GlaxoSmithKline):
GSK is a multinational pharmaceutical and healthcare company headquartered in London, UK. Focusing on the research, development, and manufacturing of innovative medicines, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products, GSK plays a crucial role in improving global health outcomes. The company operates in over 100 countries and offers diverse career opportunities in areas such as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and consumer healthcare. GSK is committed to attracting top talent and is willing to sponsor visas for qualified professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry.
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Google:
Google is a leading technology company known for its innovative products and services in internet search, advertising, cloud computing, software, and hardware. With a global workforce of talented individuals, Google fosters a culture of creativity, collaboration, and innovation. The company offers career opportunities in software engineering, data science, product management, marketing, and more. As an employer of choice, Google is willing to sponsor visas for exceptional talent seeking to join its team of professionals.
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Amazon:
Amazon is a multinational technology and e-commerce company headquartered in Seattle, USA. With a focus on innovation, customer care, and operational excellence, Amazon has become one of the world’s largest and most influential companies. The company offers career opportunities in areas such as retail, cloud computing, digital streaming, artificial intelligence, logistics, and more. Amazon is committed to attracting top talent from around the world and is willing to sponsor visas for qualified individuals seeking to contribute to its continued growth and success in the consumer goods industry.
Conclusion
The UK gives skilled immigrants avenues to enter the workforce through various industry-specific visa sponsorship programs. These sponsorship programs help immigrants by providing job opportunities, but they also help the UK workforce and economy grow and diversify. If you have been wondering how to go about the visa sponsorship process for the UK then we hope this article has been of tremendous help to you.
