A UK Sponsor Licence is a vital requirement for businesses that wish to legally hire skilled workers from overseas. This licence, issued by the UK Home Office, allows companies to sponsor non-UK nationals under various visa routes, including the Skilled Worker visa and other work-related immigration categories.

To hire foreign employees in 2025, businesses must ensure they comply with strict Home Office regulations, demonstrating their capability to fulfil sponsor duties and adhere to immigration laws.

One key resource for businesses is the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist, which consists of registered employers who have successfully obtained a licence to sponsor overseas workers. Being on this list not only allows a company to recruit international talent but also enhances its credibility in the global job market.

The application process for a UK Sponsor Licence is complex and requires careful planning, detailed documentation, and a thorough understanding of compliance obligations. Failing to meet these requirements can result in delays, refusals, or even legal consequences.

To assist businesses in successfully securing their sponsor licence in 2025, this guide provides a comprehensive Sponsor Licence Checklist. This checklist outlines the essential steps, required documentation, and key compliance measures necessary to navigate the application process efficiently and effectively.

By following this structured approach, employers can avoid common pitfalls, streamline their application, and increase their chances of approval. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing an existing licence, understanding these requirements is crucial for maintaining a lawful and compliant sponsorship status.

Understanding the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist

The UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist is an official, publicly accessible register of all organisations that have been approved by the UK Home Office to sponsor skilled foreign workers. This list serves as a key reference point for both employers looking to hire overseas talent and individuals seeking employment with a legitimate sponsoring organisation.

Being included on this list signifies that a business has met stringent eligibility requirements, has demonstrated the ability to comply with UK immigration laws, and is committed to fulfilling its ongoing sponsorship duties. It also reassures potential employees that the employer is legally authorised to sponsor work visas, providing them with greater confidence when applying for roles.

For a business to obtain and maintain a place on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist, it must follow a detailed and structured application process. This involves proving its genuine need for overseas workers, showing it has robust HR and compliance systems in place, and ensuring that it can effectively track and manage its sponsored employees.

Employers must adhere to the sponsor licence checklist to verify their eligibility before applying. This checklist helps businesses prepare necessary documents, implement appropriate compliance measures, and avoid potential compliance risks that could lead to a licence suspension, revocation, or refusal.

Failure to meet these requirements can have serious consequences, including financial penalties, reputational damage, and an inability to legally hire foreign workers. Therefore, it is essential that businesses fully understand their responsibilities as sponsors and take the necessary steps to remain compliant with UK immigration regulations.

How to Check Sponsor Licence Number UK

Before proceeding with the recruitment of a foreign worker, employers must carefully verify whether a company is officially registered on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist. This is a crucial step to ensure that the business is legally permitted to employ overseas talent and that the a will not face unnecessary complications.

To confirm an organisation’s sponsorship status, follow these detailed steps:

1. 1. Visit the Official Home Office Website 
      • The UK Home Office maintains an up-to-date UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist, which is regularly reviewed and updated.
      • Access the list through the official UK government website to obtain the most current and accurate information about registered sponsors.

• Use the Search Function for Quick Access 

1. • The sponsor licence list is extensive, containing thousands of approved businesses.
   • To streamline the process, use the search tool on the website by entering the company name or its sponsor licence number if available.
   • Ensure that the details match exactly to avoid confusion with similarly named businesses.
2. Verify the Sponsorship Status and Licence Type 
   • Once located, check whether the employer is listed under the correct sponsorship category.
   • Common categories include:
     • Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence – For hiring skilled professionals.
     • Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence – For short-term employment needs.
   • Ensuring that the business holds the appropriate type of sponsor licence is critical, as different licences apply to different visa categories.
3. Check Licence Expiry Dates 
   • A UK Sponsor Licence is typically valid for four years.
   • If an employer’s licence has expired, they must renew it to continue sponsoring foreign employees.
   • Checking the expiry date in advance prevents unexpected delays or visa rejections for prospective hires.

What if the Business is Not on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist?

If a company is not listed on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist, it means they are not currently authorised to sponsor foreign workers. In such cases, the business must:

• Apply for a Sponsor Licence through the UK Home Office before proceeding with any recruitment of foreign staff.
• Meet all necessary eligibility criteria, including proving their need for overseas workers and ensuring they have adequate HR and compliance systems in place.
• Submit the required documents and undergo an assessment to confirm their ability to fulfil sponsorship duties.

Without a valid sponsor licence, a company cannot legally employ foreign nationals under the UK’s skilled worker visa system. Therefore, businesses that plan to hire overseas talent should begin the sponsor licence application process well in advance to avoid disruptions in their workforce planning.

2025 Sponsor Licence Checklist

To successfully apply for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence, businesses must meet a range of eligibility criteria and adhere to strict Home Office regulations. A sponsor licence allows UK businesses to legally employ overseas workers, ensuring compliance with immigration laws.

Below is a detailed step-by-step checklist to guide employers through the application process:

1. Confirm Business Eligibility

Before applying for a sponsor licence, businesses must meet certain fundamental requirements to ensure compliance with UK immigration laws.

Legally Operating in the UK

• The company must be a registered UK business with valid documentation to prove its legitimacy.
• This includes being registered with Companies House and HMRC.

Genuine Need for Foreign Workers

• Employers must demonstrate a legitimate business need for hiring overseas talent.
• The job roles must be listed on the UK Shortage Occupation List or meet the Skilled Worker visa eligibility criteria.

No History of Immigration Violations

• Businesses with a history of immigration breaches, non-compliance, or fraud may be denied a sponsor licence.
• A strong compliance record is essential to securing a place on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist.

2. Choose the Right Sponsor Licence Type

The UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist includes several categories, and businesses must apply for the correct licence type based on their workforce requirements. The most common categories include:

Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence

• For hiring long-term skilled employees.
• Most commonly used by businesses recruiting highly qualified professionals.

Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence

• For short-term employment arrangements.
• Includes visas for charity workers, creative and sporting professionals, and seasonal workers.

Global Business Mobility Sponsor Licence

• For companies transferring employees from overseas branches to the UK.

Choosing the wrong licence type can lead to delays and complications in the application process. Businesses should ensure they select the appropriate category before applying.

3. Appoint Key Personnel

Every business applying for a sponsor licence must appoint key individuals to manage the sponsorship process. These personnel must:

• Be based in the UK.
• Have no history of immigration violations or unspent criminal convictions.

The required roles include:

• Authorising Officer 
  • A senior individual responsible for ensuring compliance with sponsor licence duties.
• Key Contact 
  • The main liaison between the company and the Home Office.
• Level 1 User 
  • Manages day-to-day sponsorship tasks, including issuing Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) and updating the Sponsorship Management System (SMS).

The Home Office may also allow a Level 2 User, but this role is limited to assisting with administrative tasks under the direction of the Level 1 User.

Having the right personnel in place is essential for ensuring compliance with Home Office regulations and maintaining a company’s position on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist.

4. Prepare Supporting Documents

When applying for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence, businesses must submit documentary evidence proving their legitimacy and compliance with immigration laws.

Commonly Required Documents:

• Proof of Business Registration 
  • Companies House Certificate of Incorporation (for limited companies).
  • Registration documents for sole traders or partnerships.
• VAT Registration Certificate 
  • Required for businesses above the VAT threshold.
• Business Bank Statements 
  • Demonstrates the financial health of the company.
• Employer’s Liability Insurance Certificate 
  • Mandatory for businesses employing staff in the UK.
• Recent Business Accounts 
  • Helps prove the financial stability of the business.
• Evidence of HR and Compliance Procedures 
  • Documents detailing how the business will track and manage sponsored workers.

Providing incorrect or incomplete documentation can result in delays or rejection of the sponsor licence application. Failure to meet the Home Office’s document requirements may also prevent a company from being listed on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist.

5. Pay the Sponsor Licence Fee

The Home Office charges a fee for applying for a sponsor licence, which depends on the size of the business.

Fee Structure:

• Small Business or Charity: £536
• Medium or Large Business: £1,476

A business qualifies as a small company if it meets at least two of the following conditions:

• Annual turnover less than £10.2 million.
• Balance sheet total less than £5.1 million.
• Fewer than 50 employees.

Larger businesses must pay the higher fee. Businesses should ensure timely payment to avoid delays in processing and to maintain their standing on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist.

6. Submit the Online Application

Once all supporting documents are prepared, businesses must:

• Complete the Online Application Form on the Home Office website.
• Upload or send the required supporting documents.
• Pay the sponsor licence fee based on business classification.

After submission, businesses will receive an acknowledgement receipt from the Home Office confirming that their application is being processed. Successfully completing this step is crucial for being included in the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist.

7. Pass the Compliance Check

Before approving a sponsor licence, the Home Office may conduct an audit to assess whether the business meets all compliance requirements.

Employers must be prepared to:

• Demonstrate Robust HR Systems 
  • The business should have HR processes in place to monitor employee attendance, work status, and visa expiry dates.
• Prove Compliance with Sponsorship Duties 
  • Employers must understand and follow all sponsorship obligations.
• Show Financial Stability 
  • Businesses must prove they have the financial resources to sponsor employees.

Responsibilities After Getting a Sponsor Licence

Once your business has successfully obtained a sponsor licence and is officially listed on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist, you must adhere to strict compliance obligations set by the Home Office. Failing to comply with these requirements can result in licence suspension, revocation, or even financial penalties.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Maintaining Accurate Records 
  • Employers must keep detailed and up-to-date records of all sponsored employees.
  • This includes copies of passports, visas, right-to-work checks, and employment contracts.
• Reporting Significant Changes 
  • Any significant change in a sponsored worker’s employment status must be reported to the Home Office.
  • Examples include resignations, prolonged absences, job role changes, or address updates.
• Complying with Home Office Audits 
  • The Home Office regularly conducts compliance checks to ensure that businesses listed on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist are fulfilling their sponsorship duties.
  • Employers should have HR systems in place to monitor employees’ attendance, visa status, and work authorisation.

Failing to meet sponsorship obligations could result in:

• Suspension or revocation of the sponsor licence.
• Financial penalties for non-compliance.
• Permanent removal from the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist, preventing the business from hiring skilled foreign workers in the future.

It is essential for businesses to remain vigilant and proactive in meeting their sponsorship responsibilities to avoid penalties and protect their ability to employ international talent.

How to Check Sponsor Licence Number UK

If an employer wishes to hire a foreign worker under the Skilled Worker visa route, it is essential to verify that the company holds an active sponsor licence. To check a business’s sponsorship status, follow these steps:

1. Check the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist Online 
   • The Home Office maintains a public register of all approved businesses on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist.
   • Employers can search for a company name or sponsor licence number to confirm if they have permission to sponsor workers.
2. Verify the Sponsor Licence Number 
   • Each business with a valid sponsor licence is assigned a unique sponsor licence number.
   • This number must be included on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) when issuing a visa to a foreign worker.
3. Contact the Home Office for Additional Confirmation 
   • If there are any concerns or uncertainties, individuals can contact the Home Office directly for further verification.
   • This ensures that the sponsor licence is still active and in good standing.

Employers should also ensure that their licence has not expired or been suspended, as an inactive sponsor licence could invalidate job offers made to foreign workers.

Sponsor Licence Fees and Costs

Applying for and maintaining a sponsor licence comes with various fees and associated costs. These costs depend on factors such as business size, the number of sponsored workers, and the type of visa category.

Breakdown of Sponsor Licence Fees:

• Sponsor Licence Application Fee: 
  • Small Business/Charity: £536
  • Medium/Large Business: £1,476
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): 
  • £239 per sponsored worker
• Immigration Skills Charge: 
  • £364 per year (small businesses & charities).
  • £1,000 per year (medium & large businesses).
• Legal Assistance & Compliance Support: 
  • The cost of legal services varies by provider.
  • Many businesses choose to seek expert guidance from immigration solicitors to ensure they meet compliance requirements.

It is important to budget for these ongoing costs when applying for a sponsor licence, as failure to meet financial obligations may jeopardise sponsorship status. Businesses should also regularly check their licence status on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist to ensure they remain compliant and authorised to employ skilled foreign workers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist?

The UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist is a register of businesses approved to sponsor foreign workers.

2. How to check sponsor licence number UK?

You can check a company’s status by searching the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist on the Home Office website.

3. What is a skilled worker sponsor licence?

It is a permit allowing UK businesses to hire non-UK skilled workers legally.

4. How much is the sponsor licence fee?

The sponsor licence fee ranges from £536 to £1,476, depending on business size.

5. How long does it take to get a sponsor licence?

Processing times vary but usually take 8 to 12 weeks. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.

6. What is a Health and Care Visa?

The Health and Care Visa is a specialised visa for healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and adult social care workers, who wish to work in the UK. It offers benefits like fast-tracked processing, reduced visa fees, and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Need Assistance? Contact AXIS Solicitors Today!

Applying for a skilled worker sponsor licence can be complex, but AXIS Solicitors simplifies the process. Our experienced team can:

• Guide you through the application process.
• Assist with compliance audits.
• Help you understand the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist requirements.

Contact AXIS Solicitors today to ensure a smooth and successful sponsor licence application. Our legal experts are here to help!

Secure Your Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence in 2025

Understanding the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist is essential for businesses that wish to hire skilled foreign workers in 2025. Employers must ensure they meet the necessary eligibility criteria, follow the step-by-step 2025 Sponsor Licence Checklist, and pay the appropriate sponsor licence fee to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections. Being listed on the UK tier 2 sponsor licence checklist allows businesses to legally sponsor international employees, helping to bridge skill gaps and support workforce growth. 

However, compliance with Home Office regulations is crucial, as failure to meet sponsorship duties can lead to fines, licence suspension, or even revocation. Navigating the application process can be complex, but with expert legal assistance, businesses can ensure a smooth and successful application. If you require professional guidance, trust 

AXIS Solicitors to provide expert support, ensuring that your business remains fully compliant and capable of securing a skilled worker sponsor licence.