The UK boasts a thriving business landscape, attracting skilled individuals from across the globe. However, navigating the intricacies of the UK visa system can be daunting for employers seeking to sponsor foreign workers. This guide demystifies the business/work visa landscape in the UK, providing employers with essential information to support their international recruitment efforts.
Understanding the Points-Based System (PBS)
The UK operates a Points-Based System (PBS) for immigration, which assigns points based on various criteria to determine an applicant’s eligibility for a specific visa category. These criteria include:
- Job Offer: A confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor (the employer) with a minimum salary threshold (varies by occupation).
- Qualifications: Meeting the educational and professional qualifications required for the position.
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrating sufficient English language skills through a recognized test (typically IELTS or PTE).
Key Business/Work Visa Categories:
Several visa categories cater to business and work needs within the PBS framework. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:
- Skilled Worker Visa: This is the primary visa route for skilled workers with a job offer at a minimum salary of £25,600 (as of April 2024). It offers a flexible route for various professions and allows dependents to join the applicant.
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Intra-Company Transfer): This visa facilitates intra-company transfers for employees of established overseas businesses with a UK branch. It requires a minimum salary of £45,800 and caters to specific occupations listed by the government.
- Global Business Mobility Visa: This visa stream offers faster processing times for high-value business activities like secondments, conferences, and internal company transfers. The minimum salary threshold varies depending on the specific visa route within this category.
Employer Sponsorship and the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
To sponsor an employee for a work visa, your company must hold a valid Sponsor Licence issued by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). This licence demonstrates your commitment to complying with immigration regulations. Once you have a Sponsor Licence, you can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to your chosen candidate. The CoS contains a unique reference number critical for the employee’s visa application.
The Visa Application Process
The visa application process typically involves the following steps:
- Employer Sponsorship: Secure a Sponsor Licence if your company doesn’t already have one.
- Job Offer and CoS Issuance: Provide a formal job offer and issue a CoS to your chosen candidate.
- Visa Application: The candidate submits their visa application online, including the CoS reference number and supporting documentation (passport, qualifications, proof of funds, etc.).
- Biometric Enrolment: Attend a biometric enrolment appointment at a designated centre (if applicable).
- Visa Decision: UKVI reviews the application and issues a visa decision.
Employer Responsibilities During the Process
Employers play a crucial role in facilitating a smooth visa application process for their international recruits. Here are some key responsibilities:
- Understanding sponsorship requirements and maintaining a valid Sponsor Licence.
- Issuing a clear job offer with details like salary, duties, and employment terms.
- Providing guidance to the employee on the visa application process and supporting document requirements.
- Maintaining communication with the employee throughout the process and addressing any queries.
Policy and Data: Processing Times and Fees
Processing times for work visas can vary depending on the visa category, application complexity, and current UKVI workload. Generally, applicants can expect processing times ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Here’s a breakdown of estimated processing times and fees for some common business/work visas:
- Skilled Worker Visa: Processing time: 3-6 weeks; Fee: £625 for the main applicant and £625 per dependent.
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: Processing time: 3-5 weeks; Fee: £950 for the main applicant and £625 per dependent.
- Global Business Mobility Visa: Processing time: Varies by route, typically faster than Skilled Worker Visa; Fee: Varies by route and length of stay.
The Importance of an Employer of Record (EOR)
Partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR) can be highly beneficial for UK companies seeking to employ international talent. Here’s how an EOR can streamline the process:
- Sponsor Licence Expertise: EORs can guide you through the Sponsor Licence application process and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Streamlined CoS Issuance: EORs handle the CoS application process on your behalf, expediting the process.
- Visa Application Support: EORs can assist your employee with visa application procedures
Unleash Your European Potential with EOR Europe
EOR Europe is your trusted partner for Employer of Record services, expertly simplifying the complexities of European hiring. Our bespoke solutions are designed to navigate the legal and cultural landscapes of various European markets, positioning your business for success. We are dedicated to supporting your strategic European expansion with a focus on compliance, administrative efficiency, and market intelligence. To learn more about partnering with EOR Europe for your business growth, visit us at https://www.eor-europe.com/.