Sponsoring overseas workers through the UK’s Skilled Worker visa route can unlock access to global talent — but it’s not as simple as posting a job ad. The Home Office expects employers to meet specific eligibility and compliance standards before granting a sponsor license.
At Ascend General Consultants Ltd, we help businesses assess their readiness before applying. Here’s a full breakdown of what being ‘ready’ truly means — and how we can help you prepare for a smooth and successful sponsor license application.
1. PAYE and HMRC Registration
Before applying, your business must be registered with HMRC for PAYE (Pay As You Earn) tax. This proves that you’re actively employing people and managing payroll correctly.
Checklist:
- Registered PAYE scheme with HMRC
- Employer reference number and accounts office reference number
- Regular payroll records (even if you only employ a few staff)
Tip: Ascend can assist with PAYE registration as part of your sponsor license setup.
2. HR and Record-Keeping Systems
You must prove that you have systems in place to monitor and report on sponsored workers. This includes tracking absences, retaining job descriptions, and maintaining up-to-date records.
Checklist:
- Systems to monitor worker attendance
- Secure document storage for visa and employment records
- Clear process for reporting changes to the Home Office (e.g. job title, work location)
Tip: We conduct HR audits and help you set up compliant record-keeping procedures.
3. Genuine Vacancy and Job Role Clarity
The role you’re hiring for must be a real, skilled vacancy — not a role created to obtain a visa. The job must align with one of the approved Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes and meet salary thresholds.
Checklist:
- Detailed job description with duties and responsibilities
- Appropriate salary and skill level
- Evidence that the role meets SOC requirements
Tip: Ascend can help you write compliant job descriptions and verify if your role qualifies.
4. Key Personnel Appointed and Trained
You must nominate at least three individuals: an Authorising Officer, a Key Contact, and a Level 1 User. These individuals will manage your Sponsor Management System (SMS) and interact with the Home Office.
Checklist:
- Appointed key personnel with defined roles
- Training on SMS use and sponsor duties
- Reliable access to online systems and secure communication channels
Tip: We offer SMS training for your key staff and provide Level 1 User services if needed.
5. Financial and Operational Credibility
The Home Office will assess your financial history and business operations. This is to confirm that your business is genuine, actively trading, and capable of fulfilling your sponsorship duties.
Checklist:
- Bank statements showing business activity
- Annual accounts or financial reports
- Invoices, contracts, and other evidence of trading
Tip: We help you compile supporting documents that reflect business strength and credibility.
Bonus: Understand Your Sponsorship Duties
Being ready isn’t just about the application — it’s about long-term compliance. Sponsors must:
- Report changes to migrant workers
- Keep copies of passports and visas
- Monitor start dates and absences
- Renew their license when due
Failure to follow these duties can lead to penalties or loss of the license.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering hiring overseas workers, the first step is ensuring you’re truly prepared to be a sponsor. At Ascend General Consultants Ltd, we help you assess readiness, close compliance gaps, and submit confident, complete sponsor license applications.
Need expert support? Contact Ascend today to book a Sponsor Readiness Assessment.
