A certificate of sponsorship is an essential document for individuals who seek employment in a foreign country under a work visa. It is an electronic record issued by a licensed sponsor, which confirms that the individual has a legitimate job offer and meets the necessary immigration requirements. This guide explores the importance, process, and key aspects of obtaining this certificate.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship?

A certificate of sponsorship (CoS) is not a physical document but a reference number assigned by an employer to a foreign worker. This reference number is used in the visa application process to confirm that the worker has been offered a valid job and that the employer is authorized to hire international employees.

The employer must be registered with the relevant immigration authorities to issue a certificate of sponsorship. Each certificate comes with a unique reference number that must be entered in the visa application form.

Types of Certificate of Sponsorship

There are two primary types of certificates of sponsorship:

1. Defined Certificate of Sponsorship – This is issued to skilled workers applying from outside the country. Employers must request this certificate from immigration authorities before assigning it to an employee.
   
   

2. Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship – This is for workers who are already in the country and switching to a different visa category or extending their stay. Employers have a limited annual allocation of undefined certificates.
   
   

The Process of Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship

To obtain a certificate of sponsorship, the employer must follow a structured process:

1. Become a Licensed Sponsor – The employer must apply for a sponsorship license from the immigration authorities. This involves providing evidence of the company's legitimacy, financial stability, and ability to comply with immigration rules.
   
   

2. Request a Certificate – Once the employer is a licensed sponsor, they can request a certificate through the sponsor management system (SMS). The request is reviewed by immigration authorities before approval.
   
   

3. Assign the Certificate – After approval, the employer assigns the certificate to the prospective employee. The certificate contains details such as job role, salary, and employment duration.
   
   

4. Visa Application – The employee uses the certificate reference number to apply for a work visa. The immigration authorities assess the application based on the details provided in the certificate.
   
   

Responsibilities of the Sponsor

Employers issuing a certificate of sponsorship have several responsibilities, including:

• Ensuring the job role meets the eligibility criteria.

• Maintaining accurate records of sponsored employees.

• Reporting any significant changes in employment status to immigration authorities.

• Complying with all immigration laws and regulations.

Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in fines, revocation of the sponsorship license, or legal consequences.

Conclusion

The certificate of sponsorship plays a crucial role in facilitating skilled worker migration. Both employers and employees must understand its significance, the application process, and compliance requirements to ensure a smooth and legal hiring process. By following the correct procedures, businesses can successfully employ international talent while adhering to immigration regulations.