How employers sponsor Skilled Workers: eligible roles, Certificate of Sponsorship, salary checks and ongoing responsibilities.

Start with the role

A Skilled Worker needs an eligible job with an approved sponsor. The role’s occupation classification, duties and applicable salary provisions matter. Job titles alone are not enough.

• Eligibility and appropriate occupation classification

• Correct CoS process and evidence

• Ongoing monitoring and sponsor reporting

Before making an offer, check whether the role and proposed employment conditions meet the current rules.

What does the Certificate of Sponsorship do?

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic sponsorship record created by the employer through the sponsorship system. It links the proposed role and sponsor to the worker’s visa application.

Assigning a CoS is not a visa decision. The worker must meet their own application requirements, including English language and suitability provisions.

Defined and undefined CoS

Different CoS processes apply to some applicants depending on where they are applying from and the sponsorship route. Do not assume the same allocation process applies to every candidate.

An employer should check which request is needed and what evidence must accompany it.

Sponsorship continues after recruitment

The employer must monitor relevant changes, retain the necessary evidence and fulfil reporting duties under its licence. Worker extensions and role changes can need fresh eligibility checks.

Strong recruitment planning looks at the whole employment lifecycle, not just the initial visa.

Next steps

Explore a related service below, or book a consultation to discuss your own case.

Official guidance: GOV.UK: Skilled Worker visa

Explore service: Skilled Worker Sponsorship service

Explore service: Certificate of Sponsorship support

Ready to talk? Book a consultation

Related guides

UK Sponsor Licence: How It Works

Sponsor Licence Application Checklist