Certificate of Sponsorship
Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship is a complex process that requires strict adherence to Home Office guidance and immigration rules. Even minor errors in the application or assignment process can lead to delays or refusals, which can be costly for businesses and stressful for workers.
For immediate assistance with your situation or advice on obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship, speak to our team today. Call us on +1 844 312 4979 or contact us online.
What is a Certificate of Sponsorship?
A certificate of sponsorship is an electronic work authorisation record that a licensed UK sponsor must assign to most non-UK workers before they can apply for a work visa. It is central to Skilled Worker and Temporary Worker routes, and recent guidance has introduced new restrictions on who can pay CoS-related fees and how sponsors must manage certificates.
A Certificate of Sponsorship is a unique electronic reference number that links a specific worker to a specific sponsored job, confirming that the employer is licensed and meets immigration rules. The worker enters this number in their online visa application instead of receiving any physical certificate.
Sponsors must assign a separate certificate for each sponsored worker, and the worker must use it to apply for their visa within 3 months of assignment and no more than 3 months before the job start date listed on the CoS. A CoS does not itself grant permission to work. It only enables the worker to apply for a visa under the relevant route.
Table of Contents
- Recent Rule Changes and Implications on Certificate of Sponsorship
- Defined vs Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship
- Cost Considerations and Financial Obligations for Certificate of Sponsorship
- Common Pitfalls and Compliance Risks
- Sector-Specific Considerations for Certificate of Sponsorship
- Post-Assignment Responsibilities and Workflow
- How Can IAS Help?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recent Rule Changes and Implications on Certificate of Sponsorship
Recent sponsor guidance updates have tightened the rules on how employers may use and pay for certificates of sponsorship. Sponsors must now pay CoS assignment fees and may not require Skilled Worker employees to reimburse any CoS or sponsor licence costs; non-compliance risks licence revocation.
Guidance introduced from 2025 also links key Immigration Rules changes to the date a CoS is assigned, meaning different salary thresholds and other requirements may apply depending on when the certificate was created. Sponsors must therefore check the current guidance before assigning any CoS, particularly for Skilled Workers, care workers and Global Business Mobility routes.
Are you unsure about the latest CoS rules and how they affect your sponsorship duties? Our immigration lawyers can explain the recent changes and ensure your business stays compliant.
Defined vs Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship
There are two main types of CoS in the UK sponsored work system, and the correct type depends mainly on whether the worker is applying from inside or outside the UK and which visa category they are using. Using the wrong type can lead to refused visa applications and questions about the sponsor’s compliance.
When Each Type Applies
- Defined Certificate of Sponsorship
For Skilled Worker applicants applying for their visa from outside the UK. Sponsors must request each defined CoS through the sponsorship management system (SMS), and UKVI normally decides within one working day, unless further checks are needed.
- Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship
Used for Skilled Worker applicants applying from inside the UK (for example, switching or extending), and for applicants on all other sponsored work routes, whether in the UK or overseas. Sponsors receive an annual allocation and assign these directly through the SMS.
Certificate of Sponsorship Types and Use Cases
| CoS type | Who it is for | Applicant location | Requirements | Scenarios |
| Defined CoS | Skilled Worker route | Outside the UK | Sponsor requests each certificate through the SMS, and UKVI approves before assignment | New overseas recruits for Skilled Worker roles, including shortage occupation roles, are recruited abroad |
| Undefined CoS | Skilled Worker and other eligible routes | Inside the UK (switching or extending) and most Temporary Worker routes | Allocated in advance as part of the sponsor’s annual CoS allocation | Existing sponsored staff extending permission, in-country role changes, Graduate route switchers, and Temporary Workers |
Checklist for Employers
- Confirm whether the worker is applying from inside or outside the UK
- Check the route (for example, Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker) and whether the licence covers that route
- Verify that the correct CoS type is available in the SMS before confirming a start date with the worker
Questions Workers Should Ask Employers
- Which immigration route will I be sponsored under, and will my CoS be defined or undefined?
- When will my CoS be assigned so that I can apply for my visa within the 3-month window?
- Has the sponsor confirmed that the salary, job description and occupation code on the CoS match my contract?
If you are unsure which type of Certificate of Sponsorship you need or how to meet the latest eligibility requirements, speak to our team for tailored guidance on your case. Call us on +1 844 312 4979, or contact us online.
Cost Considerations and Financial Obligations for Certificate of Sponsorship
Assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship involves direct CoS fees and, in most cases, the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC). These costs are in addition to visa application fees and any healthcare surcharge (unless exempt due to a skilled medical profession) that the worker must normally pay personally.
CoS Fee and Who Pays
UKVI charges a fee each time a CoS is assigned, and the amount depends on the type of sponsor licence and route. Sponsors must pay these costs themselves for specified routes and must not pass them on to the worker, or the licence may be revoked.
| Cost item | Amount | Who pays | Notes |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – Skilled Worker, T2 Minister of Religion, Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker | £525 | Sponsor | Applies to most long-term Worker routes, including Skilled Worker |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – Temporary Worker (including GBM Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, Service Supplier, Secondment Worker, Scale-up) | £55 | Sponsor | For Temporary Worker routes |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – International Sportsperson (over 12 months) | £525 | Sponsor | For long-term sportsperson visas |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – International Sportsperson (up to 12 months or less) | £55 | Sponsor | For short-term sportsperson visas |
| Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) – Student or Child Student | £55 | Student / Sponsor | Required for Student and Child Student visas |
| Immigration Skills Charge (Large Business) | £1,000 | Sponsor | Paid per year for Skilled Worker & Senior/Specialist Worker visas |
| Immigration Skills Charge (Small Business/Charity) | £364 | Sponsor | Paid per year for Skilled Worker & Senior/Specialist Worker visas |
| Immigration Skills Charge Extension (per 6 months, Large Business) | £500 | Sponsor | Additional period charge |
| Immigration Skills Charge Extension (per 6 months, Small Business) | £182 | Sponsor | Additional period charge |
| Worker Sponsor Licence (Large Sponsor) | £1,682 | Sponsor | Licence to sponsor workers |
| Worker Sponsor Licence (Small Sponsor) | £611 | Sponsor | Licence to sponsor workers |
| Student Sponsor Licence | £611 | Sponsor | Licence to sponsor students |
| Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence | £611 | Sponsor | Licence to sponsor temporary workers |
| Worker & Temporary Worker Licence (Large Sponsor) | £1,682 | Sponsor | Combined licence |
| Worker & Student Licence (Large Sponsor) | £1,682 | Sponsor | Combined licence |
| Worker, Temporary Worker & Student Licence (Large Sponsor) | £1,682 | Sponsor | Full combined licence |
| Add Worker Licence to Existing Temporary Worker Licence (Large) | £1,005 | Sponsor | Licence upgrade |
| Add Worker Licence to Existing Temporary Worker Licence (Small) | £0 | Sponsor | Licence upgrade |
Common Pitfalls and Compliance Risks
Errors in assigning CoS can lead to refused visa applications, curtailment of permission or action against the sponsor licence. Issues include
- Using the wrong CoS type
- Entering an incorrect salary or occupation code
- Assigning a CoS when the role does not meet the minimum skill or salary threshold
Consequences may include visa refusals for workers, downgrading, suspension, or revocation of the sponsor licence, as well as additional scrutiny by the Home Office of future CoS requests. Sponsors should keep accurate records of recruitment, right-to-work checks, salary payments and role descriptions that match each assigned CoS.
Basic Checks for Sponsors Before Assigning a CoS
- Confirm the correct route and CoS type (defined or undefined)
- Check the Standard Occupational Classification code and salary meet the current rules for that route
- Ensure start date, working hours and job description match the employment contract
- Confirm that no prohibited costs, such as CoS fees or ISC, will be passed to the worker
What Workers Should Confirm
- That the job and salary on the CoS match the offer letter or contract
- That the sponsor has explained any conditions, such as location, hours and job duties
- That the intended visa application will be submitted within 3 months of the CoS assignment
Sector-Specific Considerations for Certificate of Sponsorship
The impact of CoS rules varies across sectors, particularly in health and care, education, and shortage occupations. Some sectors have clearance or specific salary thresholds.
| Sector | Requirement | CoS implication | Suggested action |
| Healthcare and care | Additional criminal record checks for certain roles and tailored rules for care workers and senior care workers | Sponsors must confirm eligibility for Health and Care visas where applicable and ensure roles meet updated salary and conditions | Check the latest sponsor and route-specific guidance before assigning CoS, and keep evidence of professional registration and checks |
| Education and research | ATAS may be required for some research roles with certain nationalities | CoS should only be assigned after confirming whether ATAS clearance is needed and obtained, where relevant | Build ATAS checks into recruitment and pre-assignment processes so that CoS and visa timing align |
| Shortage occupations | Some roles on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List benefit from reduced route‑minimum salary thresholds or other concessions. | CoS must reflect the correct shortage occupation code, salary and working pattern to rely on these benefits | Confirm current shortage lists and salary rules before offering roles on this basis |
Post-Assignment Responsibilities and Workflow
Sponsor duties continue after the CoS has been assigned and the worker has arrived in the UK. Both the worker and the sponsor must comply with immigration conditions and reporting duties throughout the period of sponsorship.
Responsibilities include:
- Using the CoS within 3 months for the intended visa application and not applying more than 3 months before the stated start date
- Reporting certain changes through the SMS, such as delayed start dates, changes in job title, salary, work location or early termination
- Keeping up-to-date records of contact details, right-to-work checks and absences for each sponsored worker
Step-By-Step from Certificate of Sponsorship Assignment to Work Start
- Sponsor decides on the appropriate immigration route and confirms eligibility, including skill level and salary
- Sponsor selects the correct CoS type (defined or undefined) and requests or assigns it through the SMS
- Worker receives the CoS number and submits a visa application within 3 months of assignment, paying visa and healthcare surcharge where required
- If the visa is granted, the worker travels to the UK (if overseas) and starts work in line with the CoS start date or any updated date reported in the SMS
- Sponsor completes right-to-work checks on or before the first day of work and keeps evidence on file
- Sponsor monitors ongoing compliance, including salary payments, job duties and any changes that must be reported
How Can IAS Help?
With our services, your lawyer will contact your new employer to assist them in issuing your Certificate of Sponsorship. We will also ensure that you are eligible for your type of work visa and will manage your application in its entirety.
Your lawyer will perform a document check and complete your application forms in full. They will also prepare a Letter of Representation to be submitted alongside your application. This letter details your case and provides supporting evidence, referencing relevant UK immigration law.
This document will help solidify your application in the eyes of the Entry Clearance Officer. Contact us at +1 844 312 4979 today or submit an inquiry to learn more about receiving your CoS and to receive advice on your application.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Immigration Advice Service before making any decisions based on the content provided.
Last modified on April 21st, 2026 at 9:43 am
Advice Package
Comprehensive immigration advice tailored to your circumstances and goals.
Application Package
Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Fast Track Package
Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.
Appeal Package
Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.
The Advice Package
With our Advice Session, our professional immigration lawyers will review your case and provide you with comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.
The Application Package
With our Application Package, your dedicated caseworker will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your legal advisor will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.
The Fast Track Package
Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.
The Appeal Package
By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.
Related pages for your continued reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a worker, you will not need to apply for the Certificate of Sponsorship. This is your future employer’s responsibility as the sponsor of your application.
Once you have received a job offer to work in the UK, your new company will need to apply to the HMRC Compliance team to receive your CoS. Before applying for a position in the UK, you will need to make sure that the company is able to hire foreign workers legally. Companies with a UK Sponsor License appear on a list made by the UK government.
You may be seen as an illegal worker and face difficulties in the UK if:
- You do not receive your Certificate of Sponsorship; or
- There is a discrepancy with your expected salary/job title
To ensure that your application is completed correctly and stress-free, speak with IAS today.
Certificates of Sponsorship come in two categories – the type you will receive depends on the kind of work you will be doing in the country.
An Unrestricted Certificate of Sponsorship is applicable to:
- Non-EEA or Swiss nationals, who are prospective employees of a UK business and are earning more than 159,600 a year, or
- Employees who are applying from within the UK to switch onto the Tier 2 Visa (excluding any dependants of Tier 4 Visa holders).
A Restricted Certificate of Sponsorship is for:
- Tier 2 workers who are entering the country on a salary of less than £159,600 a year, or
- Dependent family members of Tier 4 Visa holders who are switching to the UK Tier 2 Visa.
It is important to note that there is currently a cap of 20,700 Restricted CoS issued each year.
Any company with a UK Sponsor License can issue a CoS to migrant employees. These must be applied for through the Sponsorship Management System before a worker applies for their Work Visa.
The application for a CoS can be rejected so it is vital that your employer has your certificate granted before you start your application.
Applications for a Defined CoS are processed within one working day in most cases. However, if the Home Office requires further information about the role or salary, it may take longer.
No, the Immigration Skills Charge must be paid by the sponsor. It is strictly prohibited to pass this cost on to the worker, and doing so can lead to compliance action against your licence.
If you assign an Undefined CoS to a worker who requires a Defined CoS (i.e., they are outside the UK), their visa application will be refused. You will need to assign the correct CoS and the worker will need to re-apply.
No, a Certificate of Sponsorship is only required for work routes such as the Skilled Worker visa or Health and Care Worker visa. Visitor visas do not require sponsorship.
Because of the imposed cap on Restricted CoS, an application for a work visa must be of the highest possible standard.
The lawyers at IAS are experienced in assisting prospective workers with their applications for Tier 2 and Tier 5 work visas. With our services, your lawyer will:
- Complete a document check and ensure you have the correct documents before submitting;
- Liaise with your employer to ensure they hold a UK Sponsor License;
- Assist you in receiving your CoS in time for your application;
- Check whether your position is on the UK Shortage Occupation List;
- Maintain contact with the Entry Clearance Office;
- Provide you with a Letter of Representation to support your case.
Make an inquiry online or get in touch today on +1844 290 6312 to receive our expert support in your application.
