How long does it take?
The Home Office estimates that it takes approximately eight weeks to process a Sponsor Licence application from the date of submission. However, we advise employers to expect the application will be processed in 2-3 months. This is due to the challenges posed by the pandemic on Home Office operations. Employers must secure a Sponsor Licence before recruiting overseas workers as they will otherwise be in breach of Immigration Rules.
Priority service
The Home Office offers a premium processing service which guarantees a speedier decision at an additional fee. The cost excluding the standard application fee is £500. This reduces the processing time from eight weeks to ten days.
Sponsor Licence applications are refused on many grounds:
- Not using the assistance of a solicitor to address the key issues in the application form and supporting letter
- Incorrect paperwork and documents
- Incorrect choice of key personnel
- The Home Office may decide to conduct a pre-Sponsor Licence compliance visit before grant the license
Steps after the Sponsor Licence is granted
The procedural process after you obtain a sponsor licence is you must allocate a Certificate of Sponsorship to the new recruit and pay a fee to assign the CoS.
After the applicant can apply for their skilled worker visa.
However, we advise employers to expect the application will be processed in 2-3 months. This is due to the challenges posed by the pandemic on Home Office operations.
