Key Program Takeaways
- Strategic alternative to the discontinued Tier 1 Investor route.
- Allows entrepreneurs to sponsor their own residency via a UK-incorporated entity.
- Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of residency.
- No minimum fixed investment threshold, focused on business operational viability.
- Includes dependents (spouse and children under 18).
| Requirement Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Visa Category | Skilled Worker (Self-Sponsorship) |
| Company Setup | Mandatory UK Entity Incorporation |
| Sponsor License | Required from the Home Office |
| English Proficiency | Level B1 CEFR or higher |
| Time to Permanent Residency | 5 Years |
The UK Self-Sponsorship route has emerged as a premier pathway for high-net-worth entrepreneurs and business owners seeking British residency. Following the closure of the Tier 1 Investor Visa, this regulatory framework leverages the Skilled Worker Visa category, allowing international professionals to establish a UK business and subsequently sponsor their own employment.
Unlike traditional investment programs that require passive capital placement, the Self-Sponsorship model focuses on active business participation and economic contribution. Through our specialized team, clients navigate the complexities of Home Office compliance, ensuring that both the corporate entity and the individual applicant meet the rigorous standards required for a successful Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Regulatory Framework: The Skilled Worker Route
The legal basis for Self-Sponsorship rests within the UK Skilled Worker Visa rules. While the Home Office does not have a "Self-Sponsorship Visa" by name, the framework allows for a 100% foreign-owned UK company to apply for a Sponsor License. Once authorized, this entity can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to an eligible individual, which may include the owner or director of the company.
Our specialized legal team emphasizes that the success of this route depends on demonstrating that the UK entity is a "genuine vacancy" and that the business has a legitimate need for the proposed role. Compliance with UK employment law and Home Office reporting duties is non-negotiable for maintaining the Sponsor License.
Eligibility and Investment Thresholds
There is no statutory minimum investment required by the UK government for this route, unlike the former £2 million investor requirement. However, the business must demonstrate sufficient capitalization to meet its operational objectives and pay the required salary thresholds.
Core Requirements for the Applicant:
- Skill Level: The role must meet the RQF Level 3 or above (A-level equivalent or higher).
- Salary Threshold: The applicant must be paid at least the minimum salary threshold as defined by the current UK Immigration Rules.
- English Language: Proof of English language ability at B1 level or equivalent.
- Financial Soundness: Sufficient funds to support oneself and dependents without recourse to public funds.
Procedural Roadmap: The Four-Phase Process
Navigating the UK Self-Sponsorship route requires a synchronized approach between corporate law and immigration compliance. Our specialized team manages the process through the following four strategic phases:
Phase 1: UK Corporate Incorporation
Establishment of a UK Limited Company. This includes registering with Companies House, appointing an Authorising Officer (who must be UK-based), and setting up business banking and tax registrations (PAYE/VAT).
Phase 2: Sponsor License Application
The UK entity applies to the Home Office for a "Worker" license. The business must provide evidence of its trading presence, physical premises (unless purely virtual under specific conditions), and financial stability.
Phase 3: Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once the license is granted, the company issues a Certificate of Sponsorship to the applicant. This digital record contains details of the job role, salary, and duration of the contract.
Phase 4: Individual Visa Application
The final step involves the applicant submitting their visa application to the Home Office, typically from their country of residence. This includes biometric enrollment and background verification.
Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
The Self-Sponsorship route provides a clear trajectory toward British citizenship. Applicants are initially granted a visa for up to five years.
- Year 5: After five years of continuous residence, the applicant and their family can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as permanent residency.
- Year 6: One year after obtaining ILR, the applicant may be eligible to apply for British Naturalization (Citizenship), provided they meet the residency and "good character" requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
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