Everything you need to know about the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Are you considering working in the United Kingdom and wondering about the intricacies of the work visa application process? One crucial aspect of this journey is the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a document provided by UK companies sponsoring foreign candidates for work visas. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the significance of the CoS, its application process, and what it means for both employers and prospective employees.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

The Certificate of Sponsorship is a vital document in the UK’s Points-Based System (PBS) for immigration. It’s an electronic record, not a physical certificate, assigned to a specific job role and a named individual applying under relevant worker routes in the UK. You can find an example CoS here. Essentially, it’s a confirmation from a UK employer that they wish to employ a foreign national and are willing to sponsor their visa application. Without a CoS, applicants under the Skilled Worker route cannot proceed with their visa application, as the unique reference number on the CoS must be inputted on the application form.

Purpose of a Certificate of Sponsorship

The CoS serves several crucial purposes for the licensed sponsor:

1. Confirmation of Sponsorship: It confirms the employer’s intent to sponsor the worker.
2. Assurance of Eligibility: The sponsor affirms that the worker meets immigration requirements for the applied route.
3. Compliance: The sponsor agrees to adhere to the terms and conditions stated on the Sponsor Management System (SMS).
4. No Guarantee of Entry: Having a valid CoS doesn’t guarantee entry; applicants must meet the requirements of their sponsored visa route.

Types of CoS: Defined and Undefined

1. Undefined CoS: Assigned to Skilled Workers and other sponsored route applicants within the UK, from the sponsor’s annual allocation.
2. Defined CoS: Required by Skilled Workers applying for entry clearance from outside the UK. There are no limits to the number of Defined CoS available, and sponsors must request one specifically for the intended migrant.

How Does the CoS Application Process Work?

1. Employer’s Role: The employer plays a central role in the CoS application process. To issue a CoS, the company must be a registered sponsor with the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Being a sponsor means that the company has met certain criteria and obligations set by the UK government to hire foreign workers. You can read more on the GOV.UK Website.
2. Job Suitability: The employer must ensure that the job role meets the necessary skill level and salary requirements specified by the UK government. Jobs are categorized into different codes under the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system, each with its corresponding skill level and salary threshold.
3. CoS Allocation: Once the employer has established the job’s eligibility, they can apply for a CoS through the Sponsor Management System (SMS). The UKVI assesses the request, and if approved, the employer receives an allocation of CoS. The employer provides the unique CoS reference number to the prospective employee.
4. Employee’s Role: With the CoS reference number, the employee includes this information in their visa application. The CoS serves as proof that the applicant has a valid job offer in the UK. It contains essential details about the job, such as the job title, salary, and duration of employment.

The CoS Allocation Process

1. Annual Allocation Request: Sponsors estimate their Undefined CoS needs during the Sponsor Licence application. They make an annual allocation request, valid for 12 months.
2. In-Year Allocation Increase: Sponsors can request additional CoS allocations during the year, subject to justification and Home Office approval.

Assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship

1. Using SMS: CoS must be assigned through the SMS system by a Level 1 or Level 2 user. It can’t be assigned more than three months in advance of the migrant’s start date.
2. Correct Assignment is Crucial: Assigning the wrong type of CoS can lead to serious consequences, including license revocation.

Cost and Fees

1. CoS Assignment Fee: Sponsors pay £199 for each CoS assignment, except for Temporary Workers or International Sportspersons (up to 12 months) where the fee is £21.
2. Immigration Skills Charge: Sponsors may also need to pay this charge, depending on the circumstances.

In Summary

Understanding the intricacies of the Certificate of Sponsorship is crucial for both employers and prospective employees aiming to work in the UK. For employers, it opens the door to a global talent pool, fostering innovation and growth. For employees, it represents a valuable opportunity to pursue meaningful employment in one of the world’s leading economies.

Remember, while the CoS is a pivotal step, it’s essential to consult official UK government resources or seek legal advice for the most accurate and updated information on the visa application process. Best of luck on your journey to working in the UK!

Disclaimer: We are not immigration consultants, legal advisors or solicitors. This article is shared for informational purposes only. If you find anything wrong, leave a comment or contact us at info@sponsoredworkers.co.uk

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