Self-Sponsorship Route Requirements:
Assessing Your Eligibility for a UK Visa
in 2025
The Core Requirements You’ll Need to Meet
1. Age & English Skills
Applicants must be 18 or older and demonstrate English language ability at CEFR Level B1 (equivalent to IELTS 6.0). This ensures you can confidently communicate and operate within a UK business environment.
2. Passport & Nationality
You’ll need a valid passport from a country where nationals require a visa to enter the UK. If your passport will expire in the next six months, it’s best to renew it before starting the process. Check the latest visa requirements on the official UK Government website.
Your company must be legitimate and active. This could be:
- An existing business you already own in the UK
- A business you plan to acquire
- A new venture you’re ready to establish
4. Relevant Experience
You’ll need to show you have the industry knowledge and leadership ability to run the business successfully. The Home Office looks for evidence that you can handle the challenges of managing a company from day one.
5. Authorising Officer
Every licensed sponsor must appoint an Authorising Officer who is already settled in the UK (British Citizen or ILR holder). This person will be your official contact with the Home Office.
Before applying for your Sponsor Licence, prepare at least four core documents. Common examples include:
- Recent UK business bank statements
- Employer’s Liability insurance certificate
- HMRC PAYE registration
- VAT certificate (if applicable)
- Company organisation chart
- Cover letter describing your business operations and the role you’ll fill
7. Salary Requirement
Your role must meet the Skilled Worker salary threshold:
- £41,700 per year or
- The official “going rate” for your SOC code — whichever is higher.
Government SOC Code List →
8. Start-Up Budget
While there’s no legal minimum, we recommend budgeting at least £150,000 for your first year to cover rent, staff, equipment, and operational costs.
9. Legal & Application Fees
You’ll need funds for:
- Sponsor Licence application
- HR compliance setup
- Certificate of Sponsorship
- Skilled Worker visa application
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- Professional legal support (optional but highly advised)
Why This Route Stands Out
Sponsor Licence Application
We guide you in preparing a complete and compliant application to the Home Office.
HR & Compliance Setup
We help create policies and processes to meet your sponsor obligations.
Certificate of Sponsorship
We manage the allocation process to avoid delays.
Visa Application Support
We prepare and submit your Skilled Worker visa application from start to finish.
Post-Approval Support
We can assist with ongoing compliance, reporting duties, and audit preparation.
