How to Use the Tier 2 (Now Skilled Worker) Visa Sponsorship Companies List in the UK

The UK Government’s list of licensed sponsors provides a comprehensive directory of employers who are legally authorized to hire foreign workers. Understanding how to effectively use this list can significantly increase your chances of finding visa sponsorship, opening the door to numerous job opportunities across a wide range of industries.

In this detailed guide, we will explore how to use the Skilled Worker visa sponsorship companies list to its full potential, how to approach the job search process, and key tips for ensuring success.

What is the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship Companies List?

The Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship Companies List is a publicly available resource published by the UK Home Office. This list includes all UK employers who are licensed to sponsor skilled foreign workers under the Skilled Worker Visa program. The employers on this list are authorized to hire non-UK nationals and sponsor their visa applications, provided the roles meet specific skill and salary thresholds.

What’s Included in the List?

The list contains several important details about the companies, including:

• Company name: The name of the employer or business entity.
• Location: The geographical location of the employer’s headquarters or main office in the UK.
• Sponsor license status: Whether the company is active and approved to sponsor visas.
• Type of sponsorship: Whether the company sponsors Skilled Worker Visas (formerly Tier 2 General Visas) or other visa types such as the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa.

By using this list, foreign nationals can directly target employers who have the legal capacity to sponsor a visa, saving time and increasing the likelihood of finding relevant job opportunities.

Who Can Benefit from the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship List?

The Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship List is an essential tool for various groups of people, including:

• International graduates from UK universities looking to remain in the UK for work.
• Skilled professionals from overseas seeking long-term employment in the UK.
• Foreign workers on other visas, such as the Graduate Visa, looking to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa.
• Recruiters and HR professionals interested in hiring non-UK talent.

Understanding how to use the list effectively can make the difference between a successful job search and months of frustration.

How to Access the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship List

The Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship List is publicly available and can be accessed through the UK government’s website. The list is regularly updated to reflect any changes in sponsor licenses, including newly approved sponsors or sponsors who have lost their licenses.

Here’s how you can access it:

1. Visit the UK government website: Go to the official UK government website, specifically the Sponsorship management system section.
2. Download the list: The list is available as a CSV file, which can be downloaded to your computer for easier navigation and search functionality.
3. Sort and filter: Once downloaded, you can use software like Excel or Google Sheets to filter the data based on your preferences, such as company location or the type of visa sponsorship offered.

Alternative Ways to Access Information

In addition to the official UK government list, there are various job portals and websites like UKHired, Glassdoor, and Indeed that compile data on employers who offer visa sponsorships. These platforms often provide additional filters to streamline your job search, enabling you to search specifically for companies offering visa sponsorship.

How to Use the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship List to Find a Job

Using the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship List effectively requires a strategic approach. Below are detailed steps to help you maximize your job search using this resource.

1. Identify Employers in Your Industry

The first step in using the list is to identify employers in your field of expertise. The sponsorship list includes companies from a wide range of industries, such as:

• Technology (e.g., Google, Microsoft)
• Healthcare (e.g., National Health Service, Bupa)
• Finance (e.g., HSBC, Barclays)
• Engineering (e.g., Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems)
• Education (e.g., University of Oxford, University of Manchester)

To narrow down your search:

• Use filters in Excel or Google Sheets to organize companies by their industry or sector.
• Look for companies that match your skills and experience, as employers typically seek workers with specific expertise.

2. Focus on Companies Actively Hiring

Once you’ve identified companies in your industry, the next step is to determine whether they are actively hiring. Many companies update their recruitment needs periodically, so it’s important to check their current job openings.

Here’s how you can do this:

• Visit the careers section of the company’s website: Most companies list their available positions on their websites. Look for job roles that align with your skills and check whether the job listing mentions visa sponsorship.
• Use job search platforms: Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Totaljobs often have detailed job postings that specify whether visa sponsorship is available.

3. Evaluate the Eligibility Requirements

Not all jobs at a sponsoring company will qualify for visa sponsorship. The Skilled Worker Visa has specific eligibility criteria that both the job and the candidate must meet, including:

• Skill level: The job must be at a required skill level (usually RQF Level 3 or above).
• Salary threshold: The role must pay a minimum salary of £26,200 per year, or the “going rate” for the specific occupation.
• Job title: The job must appear on the UK’s list of eligible occupations for visa sponsorship.
• Language proficiency: You must meet the English language requirements, typically by passing a recognized English language test or holding a degree taught in English.

Before applying, ensure that the job you’re interested in meets these criteria. The job description should clearly state if the role qualifies for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Visa.

4. Tailor Your Application

Once you’ve identified the right employer and job, it’s time to apply. Tailoring your CV and cover letter to the specific job and company is crucial, especially when applying to a visa-sponsoring employer.

Here are key tips for tailoring your application:

• Highlight your skills that match the job description: Focus on the qualifications that the employer is seeking, and emphasize how your experience and expertise align with their needs.
• Include your visa status: Mention your willingness to relocate or your current visa status (if applicable). If you’re already in the UK on a Graduate Visa or another temporary visa, state this clearly.
• Showcase international experience: If you’ve worked or studied in different countries, highlight this in your CV. Many UK companies value international perspectives, particularly in fields such as finance, tech, and healthcare.

5. Network with Potential Employers

Networking is one of the most effective ways to secure a job offer in the UK. Connecting with professionals in your industry can help you gain insights into which companies are hiring and how to position yourself as an ideal candidate.

Here are a few networking strategies:

• Attend industry-specific events: Many industries, particularly technology and finance, host conferences, meetups, and webinars. These events are opportunities to connect with potential employers and learn more about companies that sponsor visas.
• Leverage LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking. Join industry groups, connect with professionals in your field, and engage with companies you’re interested in by commenting on their posts or messaging recruiters directly.
• University alumni networks: If you’ve studied in the UK, use your university’s alumni network to connect with graduates who are now working in your field. They can provide valuable advice on securing a visa-sponsored job.

6. Be Persistent and Flexible

Securing a job that offers visa sponsorship in the UK can be competitive, especially in industries where demand is high. It’s important to be persistent and apply to multiple employers to increase your chances of success.

Additionally, consider being flexible in terms of location or job role. While London is the most popular destination for foreign workers, many visa-sponsoring employers are based in other regions such as Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Expanding your search beyond major cities can increase your chances of finding the right opportunity.

Tips for Increasing Your Chances of Securing a Sponsored Job

While using the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship Companies List can significantly improve your job search, there are additional steps you can take to stand out to employers.

1. Obtain UK Qualifications or Certifications

Many UK employers prefer candidates with qualifications recognized by UK professional bodies. If possible, pursue relevant certifications or qualifications that will make you more competitive in the job market. For example, if you’re in finance, obtaining a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) can be beneficial. Similarly, tech professionals can enhance their employability by obtaining certifications in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or data science.

2. Leverage UK Work Experience

If you’re currently on a Graduate Visa, take advantage of this time to gain UK work experience. Employers are more likely to sponsor visas for candidates who already have experience working

in the UK, as they’re familiar with the local business culture and regulations. Even short-term internships or contract roles can make a difference in your application.

3. Demonstrate Your Value to the Employer

Visa sponsorship is a significant investment for employers, as it involves legal processes and fees. Therefore, it’s important to demonstrate why you’re worth the investment. Highlight your unique skills, international experience, and how you can bring value to the company, whether it’s through specialized knowledge, language skills, or cultural insights that can help the company expand into global markets.

4. Stay Informed on Visa Changes

The UK’s immigration system is subject to periodic changes, and it’s important to stay updated on any new developments related to the Skilled Worker Visa. Changes in salary thresholds, eligible occupations, or other visa requirements can impact your eligibility or job prospects. Regularly check the UK government’s website or subscribe to immigration newsletters to stay informed.

Conclusion

The Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship Companies List is an invaluable resource for foreign professionals seeking employment in the UK. By using the list strategically, identifying the right employers, tailoring your applications, and leveraging your skills, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a visa-sponsored job.

Remember to be persistent, flexible, and proactive in your job search. While the process can be competitive, the UK offers numerous opportunities for skilled workers, and with the right approach, you can successfully navigate the job market and secure a rewarding career in the UK.