Who can sponsor me in the UK?

Securing a sponsor is important for many UK visa routes, whether you aim to work or live in the UK with your family. A valid sponsor in the UK is often a key requirement for your visa application.

In this post we will look at the most common visa routes that require a UK sponsor and who can act on your behalf to support your visa application. 

Working in the UK

If you plan to work in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you'll need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer. The employer must hold a Home Office Sponsor Licence to act as your sponsor. This certificate is essential for your skilled worker visa application.

Employers of all sizes, from small or charitable organisations to medium and large businesses, can issue a CoS. You should apply for your work visa within three months of receiving the certificate, or it will expire, resulting in your application being refused by the Home Office.

To obtain a certificate of sponsorship, you must have a valid job offer that specifies your role and duties. If you decide to change employers during your stay in the UK, you may need to update your visa accordingly.

Visiting the UK to See Friends and Family

A UK visitor visa is required for visiting the UK temporarily, such as to see family or friends. This visa allows for a stay of up to six months.

To be eligible for a UK Visitor Visa, you must:

• Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• Provide evidence of your planned activities during your stay.
• Have sufficient funds for travel and accommodation.
• Be able to support yourself and any dependants during your visit.

While a sponsor isn't always necessary for a visitor visa, it can be required if you can't prove you have the funds for your trip. A sponsor who can cover your expenses may be needed in these cases.

You can apply for a Visitor Visa by completing the application form on the government website. We have provided a template letter to help you; download the UK sponsor letter template here.  

Living in the UK with Family Members

If you're a non-UK national looking to live in the UK permanently with family, you'll need to apply for a Family Visa. A family member who is a British citizen or has settled status should act as your sponsor.

The type of UK Family Visa you need depends on your relationship with your sponsor. The main categories include:

• Spouse or partner visas
• Ancestry visas
• Dependant family visas

To be eligible for a UK Family Visa, you must prove your relationship with your sponsor, often through marriage or birth certificates. In some cases, a letter of sponsorship outlining your relationship may also be required.

UK Visa Costs

The cost of a UK visa varies depending on the type of visa you're applying for. Fees are payable when completing the online application form. Here are some standard fees for various visa categories:

• Skilled Worker Visa: £624 to £1,423, depending on your circumstances.
• Spouse/Partner Visa: £1,523 if applying from outside the UK.
• UK Visitor Visa: £200 for a standard visitor visa.

You should check the current visa fees on the Home Office website HERE. 

Some visas require payment of additional fees, such as the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is currently £1,035 per year for adult visas.