Self-Sponsorship Route in the UK

The self-sponsorship route offers a unique pathway for entrepreneurs who want to establish and run their own business in the UK while maintaining control of their immigration status.

What is Self-Sponsorship?

Self-sponsorship allows you to:

• Establish a UK company
• Obtain a sponsor license for your own business
• Issue yourself a Certificate of Sponsorship
• Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa

Who is This Route For?

Self-sponsorship is ideal for:

• Entrepreneurs with viable business ideas
• Business owners looking to expand to the UK
• Professionals who want to work for themselves
• Those who don't qualify for Innovator or Start-up visas

The Process

Step 1: Company Formation

• Register a UK limited company
• Set up business premises
• Open a UK business bank account

Step 2: Sponsor License Application

• Apply for a sponsor license
• Demonstrate your business is genuine
• Show you can meet sponsorship duties

Step 3: Certificate of Sponsorship

• Assign yourself a CoS
• Ensure your role meets skilled worker requirements
• Meet minimum salary thresholds

Step 4: Skilled Worker Visa Application

• Apply using your CoS reference
• Meet English language requirements
• Show maintenance funds

Requirements

• Genuine business operation in the UK
• Ability to pay yourself the required salary
• English language proficiency
• Sufficient maintenance funds

Benefits

• Full control over your business
• Path to settlement after 5 years
• No minimum investment requirement
• Flexibility in business operations

How MetropolVisa Can Help

Our experts provide end-to-end support:

• Business plan development
• Company formation assistance
• Sponsor license application
• Visa application support
• Ongoing compliance guidance

Contact us to explore the self-sponsorship route.