A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an essential document for foreign workers wishing to apply for a work visa in the UK. It serves as an official record that a UK-based employer has offered a position to a foreign national. The CoS is part of the UK’s immigration system and is used to confirm the applicant’s employment, ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria for the visa type they are applying for.
What is a Certificate of Sponsorship?
The Certificate of Sponsorship is not a physical Certificate of Sponsorship UK certificate or document that the applicant will receive in hand. Instead, it is an electronic record in the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system. The employer who sponsors the worker must assign a CoS to the applicant once they meet the necessary requirements. This record includes details about the job, the worker’s role, and the employer’s responsibility.
A CoS is mandatory for several UK visa types, including those for skilled workers, temporary workers, and other employment-based categories. Without a CoS, an individual will not be able to submit a valid visa application.
How Does the Certificate of Sponsorship Work?
When an employer in the UK offers a job to a foreign worker, they must apply for a CoS through the Home Office. Employers must have a sponsorship license in order to issue a CoS. The CoS is a confirmation that the worker has been offered a job that meets the visa requirements, such as a specific skill level or salary threshold.
There are two main types of CoS:
Defined CoS – This is typically used for those applying for the Tier 2 (General) visa or Skilled Worker visa. It applies to applicants who are outside the UK and are applying to enter the country for the first time.
Undefined CoS – This type is for applicants already in the UK who wish to switch to a new visa category or extend their stay.
Once the CoS is assigned, the applicant can use the reference number provided in their visa application. The CoS should be used in conjunction with other supporting documents, such as proof of funds, qualifications, and English language proficiency.
Role of Employers in Sponsorship
Employers in the UK play a crucial role in the sponsorship process. They must first apply for and maintain a valid sponsorship license to be eligible to assign a CoS. This requires meeting several requirements, including verifying that the offered job is appropriate for the worker and ensuring the salary meets the minimum threshold. Employers are also responsible for reporting any changes in the worker’s employment status to the UK Home Office.
Additionally, the employer must ensure that the worker complies with the conditions of their visa, and failure to do so may result in the loss of the sponsorship license.
Conclusion
A Certificate of Sponsorship is a vital element in the UK immigration system, ensuring that foreign workers entering the country meet specific criteria. It allows UK employers to bring in skilled workers to fill positions that cannot be filled locally. For workers, obtaining a CoS from an authorized sponsor is a fundamental step in securing a work visa and starting their career in the UK.
