From 22 July 2025, the UK government has introduced updated guidance for businesses wishing to sponsor Skilled Workers. Whether you're a care provider, a tech firm, or a start-up with global ambitions, understanding the latest sponsor licence process is crucial for hiring international talent legally and ethically.                              

Here’s a practical summary for employers:    

‍Step 1: Apply for the right licence    

If you don't already have a sponsor licence under the Skilled Worker route:

• Submit an online application through the Home Office portal
• Pay the correct application fee
• Upload the required supporting documents (typically at least four, as listed in Appendix A of the sponsor guidance)

If you already have a sponsor licence for another route (e.g. Student or Temporary Worker), you can apply to add the Skilled Worker route to your existing licence.  

Be mindful: From 31 December 2024, it’s illegal to recoup the sponsor licence fee or admin costs from the worker. Doing so may result in your licence being revoked.    

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Step 2: Meet the Skilled Worker-Specific Conditions    

To be eligible, the job you offer must meet the minimum salary and skill level, be genuine and compliant, and not involve contracting the worker to third parties for routine roles and align with UK wage and working hour laws    

Special note for care providers in England    

If you’re sponsoring care workers or senior care workers:

• You must be actively undertaking at least one regulated activity
• You must hold CQC registration
• You’ll need to provide: Your CQC number Working location(s) Description of the regulated activities

Providers in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland must meet their respective regulator’s requirements.    

Step 3: Comply with Sponsor Duties    

Once licensed, your duties don’t end. You must report changes in your sponsored workers’ circumstances, maintain accurate HR records, and cooperate with UKVI inspections    

Failing to comply could result in licence suspension or revocation, loss of ability to sponsor workers and reputational damage.    

These updated rules place more emphasis on genuine employment, fair treatment of workers, and ongoing compliance. The process can feel technical, but with proper guidance, it's manageable.    

At GigaLegal Solicitors, we help UK businesses to successfully manage the sponsor licence application process with confidence and clarity. Feel free to reach out for any thoughts, queries or concerns.