The United Kingdom's Points-Based System (PBS) offers a valuable opportunity for employers to sponsor highly skilled non-European Economic Area (EEA) and non-Swiss citizens for work visas. The Tier 2 (skilled) and Tier 5 (temporary) sponsorship license provided by PBS enables organizations to bring in top talent from around the world, thereby strengthening their workforce and increasing their competitiveness in the international market.
What is a Sponsor license?
A Sponsor licence is a document issued by the UK government that allows corporations to endorse non-EU citizens for work permits. This license is a prerequisite for any company or corporation that desires to employ foreign employees on Tier 2 or Tier 5 permits. The license is valid for four years and must be renewed before expiration. The Tier 2 permit is for proficient employees who have been offered a position in the UK, and the Tier 5 permit is for short-term employees and the youth mobility scheme.
Having a Sponsor license enables corporations to endorse non-EU citizens for work permits, which can be a valuable tool for addressing skill deficiencies and fulfilling the demands of the enterprise. This license is crucial for corporations seeking to recruit foreign employees. It enables them to endorse staff for particular positions rather than being restricted to hiring only from the domestic labour market.
Benefits of a Sponsor license to the organization
Having a Sponsor license brings several advantages to the institution. It allows the institution to access a worldwide pool of aptitude, which can assist in filling skill deficiencies and promoting innovation within the company.
Another advantage is that it allows institutions to endorse employees for short-term assignments, allowing them to bring in specialized abilities for specific projects without having to commit to long-term hires. Furthermore, it empowers institutions to endorse employees for training, which can help build a more proficient and capable workforce.
In addition to the benefits of having access to a global pool of talent and the ability to sponsor employees for specific roles, a sponsor license also allows institutions to sponsor employees for long-term and temporary assignments. This can be particularly beneficial for institutions looking to bring in specialized skills for specific projects but wishing to commit to something other than long-term hires.
How to apply?
Applying for a Sponsor license is a multi-step process that involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and passing an assessment. The application process includes providing detailed information about the institution, including its size, structure, and contact details, as well as information on the specific roles that the institution wishes to sponsor. Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department. The institution may be required to participate in an assessment to ensure that it meets the necessary standards and can comply with the UKVI regulations.
The organization must also pass a UKVI assessment to confirm its ability to fulfil sponsorship duties and that they do not pose a threat to immigration control. It's essential to keep in mind that obtaining a Sponsor license is not a one-time effort, and organizations must renew their license and abide by UKVI reporting requirements regularly.