The UK Self-Sponsorship route offers a unique pathway for entrepreneurs and business owners to get a UK Skilled Worker visa by establishing their own UK company and sponsoring themselves. This route replaced the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa and provides a viable option for those wanting to start or expand their business in the UK.
Why choose the UK Self-Sponsorship route?
No minimum investment threshold required
Full control over your business operations
Path to settlement after 5 years
Family members can join as dependents
No restrictions on company size or sector
UK Self-Sponsorship route explained
To use this route, you must first register a limited company in the UK. Then your company applies for a sponsor licence to sponsor workers. You create a real job role that meets the skill level requirement (RQF Level 3 or higher). Your company gives you a Certificate of Sponsorship, which you use to apply for your Skilled Worker visa.
Key requirements
To succeed with self-sponsorship, you must meet these criteria:
Genuine Business: Establish a legitimate, trading UK company
Sponsor Licence Eligibility: Meet Home Office requirements for sponsorship
Salary Threshold: Pay yourself at least £26,200 or the going rate
English Language: Meet B1 level English requirement
Financial Requirement: Show £1,270 in savings for 28 days
Sponsor Licence requirements
Your UK company must demonstrate:
Genuine need for the sponsored role
Appropriate HR systems and compliance procedures
Financial stability to pay the required salary
No adverse immigration history
Suitable business premises
