A UK Self Sponsorship Visa is not a specific visa category, but rather a way for individuals to sponsor themselves to work in the United Kingdom. This is possible through certain visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker Visa and the Innovator Visa.

The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to sponsor yourself if you have a job offer from a licensed sponsor employer and meet the skill and salary requirements. As a self-sponsor, you will need to apply for a sponsor license and demonstrate that you have a genuine vacancy for the role you are seeking to fill.

The Innovator Visa is an alternative self-sponsorship route for those looking to establish an innovative business in the UK. This visa requires you to have an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea that is endorsed by an approved body.

It's important to note that while self-sponsorship is possible through these visa routes, the requirements can be complex and subject to change. Looking for professional advice is highly recommended to ensure a successful application.

How can I Self Sponsor Myself to Work in the UK?

To self-sponsor yourself to work in the UK, you have two main options: the Skilled Worker Visa and the Innovator Visa. Let's explore each of these routes in more detail:

Skilled Worker Visa for Self Sponsorship

The Skilled Worker Visa is the most common path for self-sponsorship. To apply, you must:

1. Get a sponsor license: As a self-sponsor, you will need to apply for a sponsor license from the UK Home Office. This process involves demonstrating that you have a genuine vacancy for the role you are seeking to fill and that you meet the sponsor license requirements.
2. Meet the skill and salary requirements: Your job must be at the required skill level (RQF3 or above) and meet the minimum salary threshold, which is the higher of £25,600 or the going rate for your occupation.
3. Provide evidence of your qualifications and experience: You will need to submit documents proving that you have the necessary skills and experience for the role you are seeking to fill.
4. Submit a successful visa application: Once you have obtained your sponsor license and have a genuine vacancy, you can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa. This involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documents, and paying the required fees.

Innovator Visa as an Alternative Self Sponsorship Route

If you have an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea, you may be eligible for the Innovator Visa. To apply, you must:

1. Get endorsement: Your business idea must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body, such as a university or a business accelerator.
2. Meet the eligibility criteria: You must demonstrate that you have at least £50,000 in investment funds, that your business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable, and that you have the necessary skills and experience to run the business.
3. Submit a successful visa application: Once you have obtained endorsement, you can apply for an Innovator Visa. This involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documents, and paying the required fees.

It's important to note that the self-sponsorship process can be complex and subject to change. Seeking professional advice from an immigration lawyer or a registered immigration advisor is highly recommended to ensure that you meet all the requirements and to increase your chances of a successful application.

Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa for Self Sponsorship

If you are looking to self-sponsor yourself under the Skilled Worker Visa route, there are several steps you need to follow. Here's a breakdown of the process:

Application Form

The first step is to complete the Skilled Worker Visa application form. This can be done online through the UK Visas and Immigration website. You will need to provide personal details, information about your job offer, and details of your sponsor.

Supporting Documents

Along with your application form, you will need to submit various supporting documents. These may include:

• A valid passport or travel document
• Proof of your qualifications and experience
• A certificate of sponsorship from your employer
• Evidence of your English language proficiency
• Proof of your maintenance funds

It's important to ensure that all documents are valid, up-to-date, and meet the required standards.

Application Fees

Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa comes with a fee. As of 2024, the application fee for a Skilled Worker Visa is £1,428 for a 3-year visa or £3,060 for a 5-year visa. Additional fees may apply for dependents and the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Processing time

The processing time for a Skilled Worker Visa application can vary depending on the time of year and the complexity of your case. In general, you should allow at least 3 weeks for your application to be processed. However, it's always a good idea to apply as early as possible to avoid delays.

Once your application is approved, you will receive a decision letter and your biometric residence permit (BRP) within 7-10 working days. Your BRP will contain your visa details and will be required for travel and identification purposes.

Remember, as a self-sponsor, you will need to ensure that you meet all the requirements for the Skilled Worker Visa, including having a valid sponsor license and a genuine vacancy for the role you are seeking to fill. Seeking professional advice can help ensure that your application is completed correctly and increases your chances of success.

How to extend the Skilled Worker Visa

If you have been granted a Skilled Worker Visa and wish to continue working in the UK, you can apply to extend your visa before it expires. To extend your Skilled Worker Visa, you must still meet the eligibility requirements, including having a valid job offer from a licensed sponsor employer and meeting the skill and salary thresholds.

To extend your visa, you will need to submit an application form and provide supporting documents, such as:

• A valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer
• Evidence of your qualifications and experience
• Proof of your English language proficiency
• Proof of your maintenance funds
• Your passport or other valid travel document

The application fee for extending a Skilled Worker Visa varies depending on your circumstances, such as whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK. You can check the current fees on the UK Visas and Immigration website.

The processing time for a Skilled Worker Visa extension can take several weeks, so it's important to apply well before your current visa expires. If your application is successful, you will be granted an extension of up to 5 years, depending on the length of your job contract.

Seeking Professional Advice

If you are looking for professional advice for self-sponsorship in the UK, it is important to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer or firm that specialises in Skilled Worker Visa applications. At Simplified Immigration, we provide expert guidance on navigating the complexities of the self-sponsorship process.

Our team of immigration specialists can assist you with every step, from establishing your UK company and applying for a sponsor license to obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship and submitting your Skilled Worker Visa application. We understand the nuances of the UK's immigration system and can help you maximise your chances of success.

Contact us today at 03301797675 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards realising your dream of working in the UK through self-sponsorship.