Self-sponsorship lets an entrepreneur or specialist set up their own UK company, obtain a sponsor licence, and sponsor themselves under the Skilled Worker route. It is a genuine, Home Office-recognised route — but it is scrutinised more closely than an ordinary employer sponsorship, because you are on both sides of the arrangement.
Book a Self-Sponsorship Consultation | Call 0203 524 5439
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What Is Self-Sponsorship?
Self-sponsorship is not a separate visa category — it uses the existing Skilled Worker route. You (or your company) apply for a sponsor licence, your company issues itself a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for a genuine, eligible role, and you then apply for the Skilled Worker visa sponsored by your own business. The company must be genuine, viable, and able to meet the same ongoing compliance duties as any other sponsor.
Self-Sponsorship vs UK Expansion Worker: Which Route Fits?
These are the two genuine self-sponsorship routes, and they suit different situations:
| Requirement | Self-Sponsorship (Skilled Worker) | UK Expansion Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Best suited for | Starting a brand-new UK company from scratch | An existing overseas business expanding into the UK |
| Prior overseas employment needed | No | Yes – normally 12 months (waived for high earners or CEPA/FTA nationals) |
| Settlement (ILR) route | Yes, usually after 5 years | No – capped at 2 years, no settlement |
| Salary requirement | At least £41,700 or the going rate (accurate as at 16 July 2026) | At least £52,500 or the going rate (accurate as at 16 July 2026) |
How the Process Works
Step 1 – Set Up Your UK Company
You establish a UK-registered business that meets the criteria to act as a Skilled Worker sponsor.
Step 2 – Obtain a Sponsor Licence
Your company applies to the Home Office for a sponsor licence.
Step 3 – Assign Yourself a Skilled Worker Role
Once the licence is granted, your company issues you a Certificate of Sponsorship for a genuine, eligible role.
Step 4 – Apply for Your Skilled Worker Visa
You apply to enter or remain in the UK under the Skilled Worker route, sponsored by your own business.
Step 5 – Run & Grow Your Business
You operate your UK business, meeting all compliance duties as both employer and sponsored worker.
Extra Home Office Scrutiny – Read This First
Because you are both the sponsor and the sponsored worker, the Home Office applies closer scrutiny to self-sponsorship cases than to an ordinary employer application. In particular, caseworkers look for:
- Evidence the role is genuine and not created solely to support an immigration application
- A viable, credible business with real trading activity or a realistic plan to trade
- Clear separation between your personal and company finances
- Compliance systems in place from day one – right-to-work checks, record keeping, SMS reporting
We will not guarantee an outcome – no solicitor can – but early, honest advice on these points significantly reduces the risk of refusal or later compliance problems.
Common Myths About Self-Sponsorship
❌ “It’s a loophole.” It is a fully legal, Home Office-recognised route, provided compliance is genuinely maintained.
❌ “You need to invest a huge sum, like the old Investor visa.” There is no set investment threshold – what matters is a genuine, viable business, not a specific amount of capital.
❌ “It’s only for certain industries.” It applies across sectors, provided the role is on the eligible Skilled Worker occupation list at the required skill level.
❌ “Self-sponsorship applications are treated the same as any other sponsor application.” They are not – see “Extra Home Office Scrutiny” above.
Who This Route Suits
- Entrepreneurs launching a genuine UK-based company
- Consultants and specialists who want to work independently through their own business
- Business owners who also want to sponsor key employees or family members through the same company
How We Help
- Route assessment – we review your plans and background and confirm whether self-sponsorship or UK Expansion Worker fits better
- Company and sponsor licence strategy – company structure, governance, and a sponsor licence application built to withstand scrutiny
- Compliance framework – HR systems, right-to-work processes and SMS set up correctly from day one
- Ongoing support – extensions, settlement planning, and managing compliance as your business grows
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sponsor myself through my own UK company?
Yes – but expect closer scrutiny than an ordinary sponsor application. Strong evidence of a genuine business and role is essential.
Will my application face extra scrutiny because I own the company?
Yes. The Home Office specifically looks for evidence the role and business are genuine, not created solely for immigration purposes. See “Extra Home Office Scrutiny” above.
Which route is best – self-sponsorship or UK Expansion Worker?
It depends on whether you are starting a new UK company from scratch (self-sponsorship) or expanding an established overseas business into the UK (UK Expansion Worker). See the comparison table above.
Can I sponsor family members or other staff through my company later?
In many cases yes, once your licence is established, though this adds further compliance responsibilities.
What happens if my application is refused?
We can assess the reasons for refusal and advise on next steps, which may include a fresh application after addressing the issues raised.
How long does the whole process take?
Timelines vary by circumstances, but company formation is usually quick, a sponsor licence application typically takes several weeks to a few months, and Skilled Worker visa processing adds further time on top. We can give you a realistic timeline once we understand your situation.
How much does self-sponsorship cost?
Costs depend on company setup, the sponsor licence application, and the visa application itself, plus separate Home Office fees. See our Fixed Fees page or ask us for a tailored quote once we understand your circumstances.
Official Guidance
See the GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa guidance and the sponsor a visa applicant guidance for employers.
Book a Self-Sponsorship Consultation
If you are considering setting up a UK company to sponsor yourself or key team members, early advice significantly improves your prospects. Book a consultation or call 0203 524 5439.
Last reviewed: July 2026. This page gives general information only and is not legal advice on your specific position. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority – SRA No. 645049.