Tier 2 Sponsor license

The Tier 2 scheme has replaced the old Work Permit scheme but its purpose is similar, ie to provide a scheme whereby UK employers may employ skilled non-EEA people whose skills are needed. The Tier 2 scheme is more rigorous and complex than its predecessor.

Under the Tier 2 scheme, a UK employer that wishes to employ a non-EEA person who does not hold any other kind of visa that allows them to work in the UK must first of all apply to the UK Border Agency to be put on the Tier 2 Sponsor Licence Register. This is thus a required first step for the employer.  

A formal online application has to be made to the UK Border Agency and various documents have to be submitted to the UK Border Agency by post to demonstrate that the employer is legally constituted and that it fully abides by the various laws relating to insurance, payment of taxes, any required registration with an official body etc. As part of the application process the UK Border Agency may, at its discretion, make a visit to the employer’s premises in order to inspect HR systems etc.  

If the application is successful the employer will be able to apply to the UK Border Agency for a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) for the potential employee. If the Certificate of Sponsorship is granted then the employee (who might be outside the UK or already in the UK) will be able to apply to the UK Border Agency for Tier 2 Migrant leave, so they will be able to work for the employer.