Sponsor application checklist
This checklist helps you to decide whether you are ready to apply for a sponsor licence under the points-based system.
Please note that this is not an absolute test that your application will succeed - it is simly a guide to the basic requirements and the most common pitfalls in the application process.
The essentials
To be eligible to become a sponsor, you must be able to say 'Yes' to whichever of these statements apply to you. If you need further detail, use the 'See also' links or refer to the relevant paragraphs of the Guidance for sponsor applications.
| Statement | Answer | See also | Guidance for sponsors |
|---|---|---|---|
| We are a genuine organisation, based in and operating lawfully in the United Kingdom. | Yes | Paragraph 84 | |
| We are a multinational company based outside the United Kingdom with a direct link by common ownership or control to entities who are genuine organisations based in, and operating lawfully in the United Kingdom. | Yes | Paragraph 154-155, Appendix A | |
| We are an educational institution and we have been audited by an appropriate body, or hold a valid accreditation. | Yes | Paragraph 195, Appendix A | |
| We can provide originals or certified copies of all the documents needed to support our application. | Yes | Paragraphs 14, 98, Appendix A |
Preferential requirements
If you can also tick 'Yes' to the following statements, you will increase the chances of your organisation becoming an A-rated sponsor. The 'See also' links and references to the Guidance for sponsor applications provide more information.
| Statement | Answer | See also | Guidance for sponsors |
|---|---|---|---|
| We use clear and robust HR systems. | Yes | Paragraphs 107, 327, 377 | |
| The jobs we want to offer to migrant workers are at a skill level of S/NVQ3 or above. | Yes | Paragraphs 146 -148 |
Potential problems
If you can answer 'No' to these questions, you will probably avoid the main issues that might result in your organisation becoming a B-rated sponsor. Follow the 'See also' links or references to the Guidance for sponsor applications to help sort out any problem areas.
| Question | Answer | See also | Guidance for sponsors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Are you or any of your key personnel barred from being company directors for any reason other than through being an un-discharged bankrupt? | No | Paragraph 374 | |
| Has your organisation been issued with a civil penalty for employing illegal workers, or for other immigration-related matters in the past six months? | No |
Do you need additional support?
If you would like someone to work through this checklist with you, selected third parties are available to do so. We have assured the services provided by these third parties to give you confidence when you make an application.