How to Use the Tier 2 (now Skilled Worker) Visa Sponsorship Companies List in the UK
There have been a lot of articles and other media publications on how to use the UK government's Tier 2 visa sponsorship list to find employers and jobs in the UK. However, the usefulness of the list is up for debate, as holding a visa sponsorship license does not mean a company is hiring foreigners. Although the vast majority of job seekers find the list useless, this article explains how to use the Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) visa sponsorship company list if you want to explore it as an option.
What is a Tier 2 Visa?
The Tier 2 visa was a route for skilled non-EEA workers to enter the UK with a job offer from an employer. This visa category was replaced by the Skilled Worker Visa in December 2020, as part of the new points-based immigration system. The Skilled Worker Visa retains many features of the Tier 2 visa but introduces some changes aimed at making the UK more attractive to global talent.
Simply put, the Tier 2 visa no longer exists, and it is now called the Skilled Worker visa. However, many employers and publishers still use the term Tier 2 visa as they are not current with new government policies and regulations.
If you see the term "Tier 2 visa" in job descriptions or job titles, you need to approach these jobs with care, as they can also be scams targeting people who are not familiar with the UK immigration system or posted by employers who do not understand new visa rules.
Transition to Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa requires applicants to have a job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsor licence. Additionally, the job must meet the required skill level and salary threshold, and the applicant must demonstrate English language proficiency. The switch from Tier 2 to Skilled Worker Visa aims to streamline the process and make it more accessible to a wider range of professionals.
The UK Government’s Sponsorship Holders List
The UK government maintains a register of licensed sponsors, which lists all employers authorised to sponsor Skilled Worker Visa applicants. This list is regularly updated and is publicly accessible, making it a valuable resource for job seekers who need visa sponsorship. The list can be found here.
Using the List to Find Visa Sponsoring Companies
Step 1. Access the List: Visit the UK government website and download the register of licensed sponsors, which can be found here.
Step 2. Filter Relevant Companies: The list is extensive, so use filters to narrow down the companies by location or company name. As of July 2024, there are more than 100,000 registered visa sponsorship license holders. It is also important to note that the company you want to work for may hold a sponsorship license under a different trading name.
Step 3. Research Companies: Visit the websites of shortlisted companies to check for current job openings and their sponsorship policies, as having a sponsorship license does not mean that they will sponsor.
Step 4. Apply for Jobs: Tailor your applications to meet the specific requirements of each employer, highlighting your eligibility for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Advantages of Using the Sponsorship List
- Direct Access to Employers: The list provides direct access to employers authorised to sponsor visas, reducing the uncertainty in job hunting.
- Up-to-date Information: The list is regularly updated, ensuring that job seekers have the latest information on potential employers.
- Wide Range of Opportunities: The list includes a diverse range of industries and locations, offering numerous opportunities for skilled workers.
Disadvantages of Using the Sponsorship List
- Overwhelming Volume: The sheer number of companies on the list can be overwhelming and time-consuming to navigate. If you check 100 companies a day, it may take you 3 years to go through the list.
- Different Company Policy: The majority of the companies that hold sponsorship licences do not actively hire foreigners. Some of them may not even hire anyone.
- Limited Details: The list provides basic information, requiring further research to understand each company's specific visa sponsorship policies and job openings.
How UK Visa Jobs Can Assist
UK Visa Jobs is designed to simplify the job search for individuals requiring visa sponsorship. Unlike the government’s sponsorship list, UK Visa Jobs offers:
- Curated Listings: A selection of job opportunities specifically from companies known to sponsor visas, reducing the time spent searching. Opportunities are verified using public sources and information from employers to ensure quality.
- User-Friendly Interface: An easy-to-navigate platform tailored to the needs of visa seekers.
- Support and Guidance: Resources and advice on how to prepare strong applications and succeed in the UK job market.
By using UK Visa Jobs, applicants can efficiently find and apply for positions with employers ready to sponsor visas, increasing their chances of securing their dream job in the UK.
