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class="publication-external"> <ul class="organisation-logos"> <li class="organisation-logos__logo"> <div class="gem-c-organisation-logo brand--home-office"> <a class="gem-c-organisation-logo__container gem-c-organisation-logo__link gem-c-organisation-logo__crest gem-c-organisation-logo__crest--ho brand__border-color" href="/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration"> <span class="gem-c-organisation-logo__name">UK Visas and Immigration</span> </a> </div> </li> </ul> </div> <header class="gem-c-inverse-header govuk-!-padding-top-6 govuk-!-padding-bottom-6"> <div class="gem-c-heading gem-c-heading--inverse govuk-!-margin-bottom-0"> <span class="govuk-caption-xl gem-c-heading__context"> Promotional material </span> <h2 class="gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-xl"> The UK's points-based immigration system: an introduction for employers (accessible version) </h2> </div> <p class="gem-c-inverse-header__subtext">Updated 25 February 2022</p> </header> <div id="contents"> <div class="govuk-grid-row gem-print-columns-none"> <div class="govuk-grid-column-one-quarter-from-desktop contents-list-container"> <nav data-module="ga4-link-tracker" aria-label="Contents" class="gem-c-contents-list govuk-!-margin-bottom-4"> <h2 class="gem-c-contents-list__title"> Contents </h2> <ol class="gem-c-contents-list__list"> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":1}' href="#the-uk-labour-market">The UK labour market</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":2}' href="#skilled-worker-route">Skilled Worker route</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":3}' href="#global-talent-route">Global Talent route</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":4}' href="#graduate-route">Graduate route</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":5}' href="#intra-company-transfer">Intra-company Transfer</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":6}' href="#intra-company-graduate-trainee-visa">Intra-company Graduate Trainee visa</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":7}' href="#start-up-and-innovator">Start-up and Innovator</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":8}' href="#health-and-care-visa">Health and Care visa</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":9}' href="#creative-route">Creative route</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":10}' href="#sporting-routes">Sporting routes</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":11}' href="#seasonal-workers-pilot">Seasonal Workers Pilot</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":12}' href="#youth-mobility-scheme">Youth Mobility Scheme</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":13}' href="#eu-citizens-and-applications-to-the-eu-settlement-scheme">EU citizens and applications to the EU Settlement Scheme</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":14}' href="#frontier-workers">Frontier workers</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":15}' href="#right-to-work-checks">Right to work checks</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":16}' href="#becoming-a-licensed-sponsor">Becoming a licensed sponsor</a> </li> <li class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--numbered"> <span class="gem-c-contents-list__list-item-dash" aria-hidden="true"></span> <a class="gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-c-force-print-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline" data-ga4-link='{"event_name":"select_content","section":"Contents","type":"contents list","index_total":17,"index_link":17}' href="#immigration-skills-charge">Immigration skills charge</a> </li> </ol> </nav> <div class="gem-c-print-link govuk-!-display-none-print govuk-!-margin-bottom-6"> <button class="govuk-link govuk-body-s gem-c-print-link__button" data-module="print-link">Print this page</button> </div> </div> <div class="print-wrapper"> <div class="meta-data meta-data--display-print"> <p> <img class="meta-data-licence" src="/assets/government-frontend/open-government-licence-min-93b6a51b518ff99714a1aa2a7d2162735c155ec3cb073c75fb88b2a332fa83d3.png"> </p> <p> © Crown copyright 2022 </p> <p> This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit <a href="https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3">nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3</a> or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: <a href="mailto:psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk">psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk</a>. </p> <p> Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned. </p> <p> This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers </p> </div> </div> <div class="govuk-grid-column-three-quarters-from-desktop contents-container"> <div class="gem-c-govspeak-html-publication"> <div data-module="govspeak" class="gem-c-govspeak govuk-govspeak gem-c-govspeak--direction-ltr govuk-!-margin-bottom-0"> <div class="govspeak"> <p>Under the points-based immigration system, with the exception of Irish citizens, anyone coming to the UK for work must meet a specific set of requirements for which they will score points. Visas are then awarded to those who gain enough points.</p> <p>This system provides flexible arrangements for UK employers to recruit skilled workers from around the world through a number of different immigration routes.</p> <p>You will need a sponsor licence to hire most eligible employees from outside the UK. Before applying to be a sponsor you should check that the jobs you want to hire people for will meet the requirements for sponsoring work visas.</p> <p>This guide provides an overview of the points-based immigration system and sets out the steps employers should take to adapt their business.</p> <figure class="image embedded"><div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/616fe44ae90e07197483b7ab/New_Project.png" alt="Labour pool diagram"></div></figure> <h2 id="the-uk-labour-market">The UK labour market</h2> <p>The points-based system supports a wider package of interventions that make up our long-term approach to the labour market and our strategy to rebuild our economy, supporting the growth of your business and helping people get back to work.</p> <p>The points-based system provides you with the ability to access people and talent from around the world. We encourage employers to first consider domestic recruitment options within the UK. <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/plan-for-jobs" class="govuk-link">Our Plan for Jobs</a> encompasses a range of programmes, some of which offer financial incentives, available to employers who considering hiring employees, offering work experience or upskilling their existing staff.</p> <p>Examples include:</p> <ul> <li>Apprenticeships: combining practical on-the-job skills training with sustained off-the-job learning, available from entry level to master’s degree-equivalent.</li> <li>T Levels: new 2-year qualifications for 16 to 19 year olds. At the heart of each course is a 45-day industry placement, giving you early access to the brightest talent entering your market.</li> <li>Kickstart Scheme: offering six-month work placements in new jobs created using grant funding from the scheme, for 16 to 24 year olds at risk of long-term unemployment. 100% of their time is spent in the workplace with in-work training to help develop transferable skills aimed at increasing their chances of sustained employment.</li> <li>National Careers Service: exploring work and skills opportunities for your workforce including those offered as part of the skills recovery package and helping to find skilled people to fill current vacancies in your organisation</li> <li>Sector-based work academy programme (SWAP): recruit staff with the right training and skills from the outset, developed through fully-funded pre-employment training and providing an easy way to see job candidates in action.</li> <li>Traineeships: skills development programmes that include a work placement. The full programme can last from 6 weeks up to 1 year, though most traineeships last for less than 6 months.</li> <li>Free qualifications for adults: As part of the Plan for Jobs, any adult aged 19 and over, who does not have a level 3 qualification (equivalent to an advanced technical certificate or diploma, or A levels) or higher, now has the opportunity to access a fully funded course.</li> <li>Skills Bootcamps: putting employers at the heart of the further education system, Skills Bootcamps will support your immediate labour market needs by helping you to fill much-needed vacancies. These are available across regions of the country and include a range of digital courses, technical training in skills like construction or engineering, and green skills like electrical vehicle maintenance.</li> </ul> <div class="call-to-action"> <p>You need to have a sponsor licence to hire most workers from outside the UK. This does not apply when hiring Irish citizens or EU citizens with status under the EU Settlement Scheme.</p> </div> <h2 id="skilled-worker-route">Skilled Worker route</h2> <p>The Skilled Worker route encompasses the majority of UK jobs eligible for overseas recruitment, providing a simple and flexible process for accessing the global talent pool.</p> <p>Under the Skilled Worker route, anyone you want to hire from outside the UK will need to demonstrate that:</p> <ul> <li>they have a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor (you)</li> <li>the job offer is at the required skill level – RQF 3 or above (A Level and equivalent)</li> <li>they speak English to the required standard</li> </ul> <p>In addition to this, the job you are offering must meet the applicable minimum salary threshold. This is the higher of either:</p> <ul> <li>the general salary threshold of £25,600, or</li> <li>the specific salary requirement for their occupation, known as the ‘going rate’</li> </ul> <p>All applicants will be able to trade characteristics, such as their qualifications, against a lower salary to get the required number of points. If the job offer is less than the minimum salary requirement, but no less than £20,480, an applicant may still be eligible if they have:</p> <ul> <li>a job offer in a specific shortage occupation</li> <li>a PhD relevant to the job</li> <li>a PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job</li> </ul> <p>There are different salary rules for workers in certain health or education jobs, and for ’new entrants’ at the start of their careers.</p> <p>For further information on the ‘going rate’ for specific occupations and further exemptions, see <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/skilled-worker-visa-going-rates-for-eligible-occupations" class="govuk-link">Skilled Worker visa: going rates for eligible occupation codes</a>.</p> <h3 id="a-total-of-70-points-is-needed-to-be-able-to-apply-to-work-in-the-uk">A total of 70 points is needed to be able to apply to work in the UK</h3> <table> <thead> <tr> <th scope="col">Characteristics</th> <th scope="col">Mandatory/Tradeable</th> <th scope="col">Points</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Offer of job by approved sponsor</td> <td>Mandatory</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Job at appropriate skill level</td> <td>Mandatory</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Speaks English at required level</td> <td>Mandatory</td> <td>10</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salary of £20,480 to £23,039 or at least 80% of the going rate for the profession (whichever is higher)</td> <td>Tradeable</td> <td>0</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salary of £23,040 to £25,599 or at least 90% of the going rate for the profession (whichever is higher)</td> <td>Tradeable</td> <td>10</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salary of £25,600 or above or at least the going rate for the profession (whichever is higher)</td> <td>Tradeable</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Job in a shortage occupation as designated by the Migration Advisory Committee</td> <td>Tradeable</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Education qualification: PhD in a subject relevant to the job</td> <td>Tradeable</td> <td>10</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Education qualification: PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job</td> <td>Tradeable</td> <td>20</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h3 id="identify-whether-a-job-meets-the-required-skill-level">Identify whether a job meets the required skill level</h3> <p>All jobs have a corresponding <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/skilled-worker-visa-eligible-occupations" class="govuk-link">Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code</a>. Each SOC code has a designated skill level. This determines whether the job meets the requirements of the Skilled Worker route.</p> <p>To help you match jobs to the correct occupation code, the Office for National Statistics has created an <a rel="external" href="https://onsdigital.github.io/dp-classification-tools/standard-occupational-classification/ONS_SOC_occupation_coding_tool.html" class="govuk-link">Occupation Coding Tool </a>, which is available online.</p> <h3 id="shortage-occupation-list">Shortage Occupation List</h3> <div class="call-to-action"> <p>The Shortage Occupation List, which is recommended by the independent Migration Advisory Committee, is comprised of skilled jobs where there is an identified national shortage which is sensible to fill, at least in part, through immigration.</p> </div> <p>An occupation on the Shortage Occupation List results in lower application fees and reduced salary requirements, for skilled workers filling jobs which are in shortage. This does not, however, exempt jobs from the wider mandatory requirements of the Skilled Worker Route, including the skills threshold and the English language requirement.</p> <h3 id="skilled-worker-case-studies">Skilled Worker case studies</h3> <p>Lab technician with a STEM PhD coming to the UK with salary offer of £21,000. The general salary threshold applies.</p> <table> <thead> <tr> <th scope="col">General salary threshold: £25,600</th> <th scope="col">Points</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Job offer</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>RQF 3 or above</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>English language</td> <td>10</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salary</td> <td>0</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Education qualification: STEM PhD</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Total</td> <td>70</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Mechanical engineer coming to the UK with salary offer of £26,750. The “going rate” salary threshold for the profession applies.</p> <table> <thead> <tr> <th scope="col">General salary threshold: £33,400</th> <th scope="col">Points</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Job offer</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>RQF 3 or above</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>English language</td> <td>10</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salary</td> <td>0</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Job offer in a shortage occupation</td> <td>20</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Total</td> <td>70</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div class="call-to-action"> <p>Alongside the Skilled Worker route, there are a number of other immigration routes to provide businesses with the flexibility they need. Some of these routes do not require you to be a sponsor.</p> </div> <h2 id="global-talent-route">Global Talent route</h2> <p>The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/global-talent" class="govuk-link">Global Talent route</a> enables the most highly skilled individuals, who can achieve the required number of points, to enter the UK without a job offer if they are endorsed by a recognised UK body, as approved by the Home Office.</p> <p>Applicants can also work in the UK on a Global Talent visa if they’ve won an <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/global-talent-eligible-prize-list" class="govuk-link">eligible award</a>. These prizes have been identified by the Global Talent endorsing bodies as demonstrating exceptional talent.</p> <p>You do not need to be a licensed sponsor to employ a migrant under the Global Talent route.</p> <p>This route is designed to attract recognised global leaders and promising individuals in science, humanities, engineering, the arts and digital technology. Top scientists and researchers can benefit from a quicker endorsement process as part of a fast track STEM scheme.</p> <p>As of January 2021, the current list of approved endorsing bodies is as follows:</p> <ul> <li>The Royal Society, for science and medicine</li> <li>The Royal Academy of Engineering, for engineering</li> <li>The British Academy, for humanities</li> <li>UK Research and Innovation, for science and research</li> <li>Tech Nation, for digital technology</li> <li>Arts Council England, for arts and culture</li> </ul> <h2 id="graduate-route">Graduate route</h2> <p>The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa" class="govuk-link">Graduate route</a> enables international students who have been awarded their degree to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, at any skill level for two years, or three years for doctoral students. It is an unsponsored route, meaning you do not need a sponsor licence to hire someone with a Graduate visa.</p> <p>Graduate visa holders are able to work flexibly, switch jobs and develop their career as required. They cannot extend their visa, however they can switch to a different visa, for example a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa" class="govuk-link">Skilled Worker visa</a>, once they have found a suitable job.</p> <h2 id="intra-company-transfer">Intra-company Transfer</h2> <p>The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/intracompany-transfer-worker-visa" class="govuk-link">Intra-company visa</a> allows multinational organisations to facilitate temporary moves into the UK for key business personnel through their subsidiary branches, subject to ICT sponsorship requirements being met. The route requires applicants to be in roles skilled to RQF 6 (graduate level equivalent), and subject to a different minimum salary threshold from the main Skilled Worker route.</p> <h2 id="intra-company-graduate-trainee-visa">Intra-company Graduate Trainee visa</h2> <p>The Intra-Company Graduate Trainee route is for workers who are being transferred by the business they work for to undertake a role in the UK as part of a structured graduate training programme, with clearly defined progression towards a managerial or specialist role within the organisation.</p> <p>The Intra-company routes will be replaced by a single, sponsored Global Business Mobility route. We aim to deliver the new route by spring 2022.</p> <h2 id="start-up-and-innovator">Start-up and Innovator</h2> <p>The Start-up and Innovator routes are designed to attract entrepreneurial talent and innovative, scalable business ideas to the UK. Start-up is for those setting up an innovative business for the first time, and Innovator is for those with industry experience and at least £50,000 funding. Applicants can be individuals or teams.</p> <h2 id="health-and-care-visa">Health and Care visa</h2> <p>The Health and Care visa is part of the Skilled Worker route. It enables individuals to come to the UK to work if they are working in eligible health occupations, with a job offer from the NHS, adult social care sector or organisations that provide services to the NHS. Applicants benefit from a lower application fee, and are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Charge which applies to most other types of visa.</p> <h2 id="creative-route">Creative route</h2> <p>This route is for applicants in the creative industry who are entering the United Kingdom for short-term contracts or engagements for up to 12 months. Applicants must have a confirmed job offer and their employment sponsored by a UK employer licensed by the Home Office.</p> <h2 id="sporting-routes">Sporting routes</h2> <p>International sportspeople must also have a confirmed job offer and their employment sponsored by a UK employer licenced by the Home Office. Additionally, they must have an endorsement from the relevant governing sports body.</p> <h2 id="seasonal-workers-pilot">Seasonal Workers Pilot</h2> <p>The Seasonal Workers Pilot is currently running until the end of 2021 enabling the recruitment of 30,000 temporary workers to come to the UK for a period of up to 6 months to work in the horticulture sector only. For 2021 only, of the 30,000, up to 800 visas will be ringfenced for foreign butchers.</p> <p>In addition, time-limited visas are being offered to 4,700 HGV drivers in food distribution and 5,500 poultry workers in the run-up to Christmas 2021 to ease pressures caused by disruptions in the global supply chain.</p> <h2 id="youth-mobility-scheme">Youth Mobility Scheme</h2> <p>Employers can also benefit from the youth mobility scheme. The UK has arrangements in place with ten countries and territories to enable around 20,000 young people to come to the UK to work and travel each year. Applicants must be 18 to 30 years old and can stay up to two years.</p> <h2 id="eu-citizens-and-applications-to-the-eu-settlement-scheme">EU citizens and applications to the EU Settlement Scheme</h2> <p>The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families/applying-for-settled-status" class="govuk-link">EU Settlement Scheme</a> was established to enable EU, EEA and Swiss citizens resident in the UK by 31 December 2020, and their family members, to get the immigration status they need to continue to live, work and study in the UK.  </p> <p>For those citizens resident in the UK by 31 December 2020, the deadline for applications was 30 June 2021.  </p> <p>As an employer you are not responsible for making sure your EU employees have applied. However, for many organisations the scheme has been an important aspect of workforce planning and retention. </p> <p>Where an EU citizen has reasonable grounds for missing the EU Settlement Scheme application deadline, they will be given a further opportunity to apply. <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/right-to-work-checks-employers-guide" class="govuk-link">Full guidance has been published</a> on the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/eu-settlement-scheme-introduction-for-employers/eu-settlement-scheme-introduction-for-employers" class="govuk-link">steps you should take</a> as an employer if this situation arises. You should advise them that they must make an application within 28 days.</p> <p>Individuals with settled status can spend up to five years in a row outside the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man without losing this status.</p> <h2 id="frontier-workers">Frontier workers</h2> <p>A <a href="https://www.gov.uk/frontier-worker-permit" class="govuk-link">frontier worker</a> is someone from the EU who is employed, or self-employed in the UK, but lives elsewhere. Anyone frontier working in the UK by 31 December 2020 will be able to keep their status, but they will need to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/frontier-worker-permit/apply" class="govuk-link">apply for a permit</a>. Irish citizens who are frontier working into the UK do not need to apply for a permit, but they can if they want to.</p> <h2 id="right-to-work-checks">Right to work checks</h2> <p>Employers should check job applicants have the right to work in the UK before hiring them, to avoid being liable for a civil penalty.</p> <p>There are two types of right-to-work check: a manual check and an online check. The type of check you conduct will depend on the status of the individual you intend to employ, and in some circumstances, the individual’s preference.</p> <p>A manual check can be completed for UK and Irish citizens who can, for example, use their passport as proof of right-to-work. You will also need to complete a manual check for individuals if they do not have an immigration status that can be shared with you online (<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/view-and-prove-your-immigration-status-evisa" class="govuk-link">eVisa</a>).</p> <p>An online check is required for individuals who only hold an eVisa. This applies to most EU citizens, including those with settled or pre-settled status, anyone with a Hong Kong BNO visa and some other nationalities who have moved to the UK more recently under the points-based immigration system.</p> <p>As of 1 July 2021, you can no longer accept an EU citizen’s passport or ID card alone as evidence of their right to work and will have to check their right to work online (with the exception of Irish citizens).</p> <p>To <a href="https://www.gov.uk/check-job-applicant-right-to-work" class="govuk-link">carry out an online right to work check</a>, you’ll need:</p> <ul> <li>the applicant’s date of birth</li> <li>their share code which they will have obtained online</li> </ul> <p>You must not discriminate when conducting right to work checks. The Home Office has published <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/illegal-working-penalties-codes-of-practice-for-employers" class="govuk-link">statutory codes of practice</a> for employers on how to avoid unlawful discrimination when undertaking checks. This guidance clearly stipulates that employers should provide individuals with every opportunity to demonstrate their right to work and must not discriminate on the basis of race or any of the other protected characteristics.</p> <p>To assist you in carrying out right to work checks, we have developed a right to work check video:</p> <p><a rel="external" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNrOr_GmcKM&t=5s" class="govuk-link">right to work check video</a>.</p> <h2 id="becoming-a-licensed-sponsor">Becoming a licensed sponsor</h2> <div class="call-to-action"> <p>If you are not already a licensed sponsor and you think you will want to sponsor migrants through the Skilled Worker route, you should apply now.</p> </div> <p>Before applying you should check that the people you want to hire will meet the requirements for coming to the UK for work.</p> <p>The standard processing time for an application is usually eight weeks and will start when we receive your application. As a licensed sponsor, you will be able to hire eligible employees from anywhere in the world.</p> <p>Some immigration routes, such as Graduate or Global Talent, are ‘unsponsored’. You don’t need a licence to hire employees with an unsponsored visa.</p> <p>You do not need to be a sponsor to recruit Irish citizens or anyone from the resident labour market with an existing right to work in the UK. This includes EU citizens with settled or pre-settled status, and non-EU citizens with indefinite leave to remain in the UK.</p> <p>You will need to:</p> <h3 id="check-your-business-is-eligible"> <span class="number">1. </span> Check your business is eligible</h3> <p>To get a licence, you cannot have unspent criminal convictions for immigration offences or certain other crimes, such as fraud or money laundering.</p> <h3 id="choose-the-type-of-skilled-worker-licence-you-want-to-apply-for"> <span class="number">2. </span> Choose the type of skilled worker licence you want to apply for</h3> <p>This will depend on whether you are sponsoring a job applicant for general purposes, or for the purpose of an ICT. You can apply for a licence covering either or both.</p> <h3 id="decide-who-will-manage-sponsorship-within-your-business"> <span class="number">3. </span> Decide who will manage sponsorship within your business</h3> <p>You need to appoint people within your business to manage the sponsorship process when you apply for a licence. The main tool they’ll use is the sponsorship management system (SMS). The roles are:</p> <ul> <li>authorising officer – a senior and competent person responsible for the actions of staff and representatives who use the SMS</li> <li>key contact – your main point of contact with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)</li> <li>level 1 user – responsible for all day-to-day management of your licence using the SMS</li> </ul> <p>These roles can be filled by the same person or different people</p> <h3 id="apply-online-and-pay-a-fee"> <span class="number">4. </span> Apply online and pay a fee</h3> <table> <thead> <tr> <th scope="col">Type of licence</th> <th scope="col">Fee for small or charitable sponsors</th> <th scope="col">Fee for medium or large sponsors</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Worker Sponsor Licence</td> <td>£536</td> <td>£1,476</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Temporary Worker</td> <td>£536</td> <td>£536</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Worker and Temporary Worker</td> <td>£536</td> <td>£1,476</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Adding a Worker licence to an existing Temporary Worker licence</td> <td>No fee</td> <td>£940</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Adding a Temporary Worker licence to an existing Worker licence</td> <td>No fee</td> <td>No fee</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>The fees stated are current as of July 2021. Fees are kept under review and may be subject to change. Please check <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-fees-transparency-data" class="govuk-link">GOV.UK</a>.</p> <p>You’re usually a small business if:</p> <ul> <li>your annual turnover is £10.2 million or less</li> <li>you have 50 employees or fewer</li> </ul> <p>Contact the Business Helpdesk if you’re unsure which category your business fits into: <a href="mailto:businesshelpdesk@homeoffice.gov.uk" class="govuk-link">businesshelpdesk@homeoffice.gov.uk</a></p> <h2 id="immigration-skills-charge">Immigration skills charge</h2> <p>The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers/immigration-skills-charge" class="govuk-link">immigration skills charge</a> is a fee paid by a UK employer for each skilled migrant worker they employ through the Skilled Worker and Intra-company Transfer routes. The charge is intended to act as an incentive for employers to recruit and train resident workers rather than migrant workers. Funds raised by the charge are used to support skills and training programmes in the UK. You will need to pay the charge when sponsoring both EU and non-EU migrant workers.</p> <table> <thead> <tr> <th scope="col">Period</th> <th scope="col">Small or charitable sponsors</th> <th scope="col">Medium or large sponsors</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>First 12 months</td> <td>£364</td> <td>£1,000</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Each additional 6 months</td> <td>£182</td> <td>£500</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><a href="https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers" class="govuk-link">For full guidance on becoming a sponsor or to begin your application, visit GOV.UK</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the points-based immigration system and to sign up for email alerts, visit <a rel="external" href="https://pbisemployers.campaign.gov.uk/" class="govuk-link">GOV.UK/HiringFromTheEU</a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="govuk-grid-row"> <a class="govuk-link app-c-back-to-top govuk-!-display-none-print" href="#contents"> <svg class="app-c-back-to-top__icon" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="13" height="17" viewbox="0 0 13 17" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"> <path fill="currentColor" d="M6.5 0L0 6.5 1.4 8l4-4v12.7h2V4l4.3 4L13 6.4z"></path> </svg> Back to top </a> </div> </div> </main> </div> <div class="govuk-width-container"> <div data-module="feedback ga4-event-tracker" class="gem-c-feedback govuk-!-display-none-print"> <div class="gem-c-feedback__prompt gem-c-feedback__js-show js-prompt" tabindex="-1"> <div class="gem-c-feedback__prompt-content"> <div class="gem-c-feedback__prompt-questions js-prompt-questions" hidden> <div class="gem-c-feedback__prompt-question-answer"> <h2 class="gem-c-feedback__prompt-question">Is this page useful?</h2> <ul class="gem-c-feedback__option-list"> <li class="gem-c-feedback__option-list-item govuk-visually-hidden" hidden> <a class="gem-c-feedback__prompt-link" role="button" hidden="hidden" aria-hidden="true" href="/contact/govuk"> Maybe </a> </li> <li class="gem-c-feedback__option-list-item"> <button class="govuk-button gem-c-feedback__prompt-link js-page-is-useful" data-ga4-event='{"event_name":"form_submit","type":"feedback","text":"Yes","section":"Is this page useful?","tool_name":"Is this page useful?"}'> Yes <span class="govuk-visually-hidden">this page is useful</span> </button> </li> <li class="gem-c-feedback__option-list-item"> <button class="govuk-button gem-c-feedback__prompt-link js-toggle-form js-page-is-not-useful" aria-controls="page-is-not-useful" aria-expanded="false" data-ga4-event='{"event_name":"form_submit","type":"feedback","text":"No","section":"Is this page useful?","tool_name":"Is this page useful?"}'> No <span class="govuk-visually-hidden">this page is not useful</span> </button> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div class="gem-c-feedback__prompt-questions gem-c-feedback__prompt-success js-prompt-success" role="alert" hidden> Thank you for your feedback </div> <div class="gem-c-feedback__prompt-questions gem-c-feedback__prompt-questions--something-is-wrong js-prompt-questions" hidden> <button class="govuk-button gem-c-feedback__prompt-link js-toggle-form js-something-is-wrong" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="something-is-wrong" data-ga4-event='{"event_name":"form_submit","type":"feedback","text":"Report a problem with this page","section":"Is this page useful?","tool_name":"Is this page useful?"}'> Report a problem with this page </button> </div> </div> </div> <form action="https://www.gov.uk/contact/govuk/problem_reports" id="something-is-wrong" class="gem-c-feedback__form js-feedback-form" method="post" hidden> <div class="govuk-grid-row"> <div class="govuk-grid-column-two-thirds"> <div class="gem-c-feedback__error-summary gem-c-feedback__js-show js-errors" tabindex="-1" hidden></div> <input type="hidden" name="url" value="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers"> <h3 class="gem-c-feedback__form-heading">Help us improve GOV.UK</h3> <p id="feedback_explanation" class="gem-c-feedback__form-paragraph">Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.</p> <div class="govuk-visually-hidden" aria-hidden="true"> <label for="giraffe">This field is for robots only. 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"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#the-uk-labour-market", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#the-uk-labour-market", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe points-based system supports a wider package of interventions that make up our long-term approach to the labour market and our strategy to rebuild our economy, supporting the growth of your business and helping people get back to work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe points-based system provides you with the ability to access people and talent from around the world. We encourage employers to first consider domestic recruitment options within the UK. \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/plan-for-jobs\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eOur Plan for Jobs\u003c/a\u003e encompasses a range of programmes, some of which offer financial incentives, available to employers who considering hiring employees, offering work experience or upskilling their existing staff.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExamples include:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eApprenticeships: combining practical on-the-job skills training with sustained off-the-job learning, available from entry level to master’s degree-equivalent.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eT Levels: new 2-year qualifications for 16 to 19 year olds. At the heart of each course is a 45-day industry placement, giving you early access to the brightest talent entering your market.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eKickstart Scheme: offering six-month work placements in new jobs created using grant funding from the scheme, for 16 to 24 year olds at risk of long-term unemployment. 100% of their time is spent in the workplace with in-work training to help develop transferable skills aimed at increasing their chances of sustained employment.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eNational Careers Service: exploring work and skills opportunities for your workforce including those offered as part of the skills recovery package and helping to find skilled people to fill current vacancies in your organisation\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSector-based work academy programme (SWAP): recruit staff with the right training and skills from the outset, developed through fully-funded pre-employment training and providing an easy way to see job candidates in action.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eTraineeships: skills development programmes that include a work placement. The full programme can last from 6 weeks up to 1 year, though most traineeships last for less than 6 months.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFree qualifications for adults: As part of the Plan for Jobs, any adult aged 19 and over, who does not have a level 3 qualification (equivalent to an advanced technical certificate or diploma, or A levels) or higher, now has the opportunity to access a fully funded course.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSkills Bootcamps: putting employers at the heart of the further education system, Skills Bootcamps will support your immediate labour market needs by helping you to fill much-needed vacancies. These are available across regions of the country and include a range of digital courses, technical training in skills like construction or engineering, and green skills like electrical vehicle maintenance.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"call-to-action\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYou need to have a sponsor licence to hire most workers from outside the UK. This does not apply when hiring Irish citizens or EU citizens with status under the EU Settlement Scheme.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Skilled Worker route", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#skilled-worker-route", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#skilled-worker-route", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe Skilled Worker route encompasses the majority of UK jobs eligible for overseas recruitment, providing a simple and flexible process for accessing the global talent pool.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnder the Skilled Worker route, anyone you want to hire from outside the UK will need to demonstrate that:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ethey have a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor (you)\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ethe job offer is at the required skill level – RQF 3 or above (A Level and equivalent)\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ethey speak English to the required standard\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition to this, the job you are offering must meet the applicable minimum salary threshold. This is the higher of either:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ethe general salary threshold of £25,600, or\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ethe specific salary requirement for their occupation, known as the ‘going rate’\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll applicants will be able to trade characteristics, such as their qualifications, against a lower salary to get the required number of points. If the job offer is less than the minimum salary requirement, but no less than £20,480, an applicant may still be eligible if they have:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ea job offer in a specific shortage occupation\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ea PhD relevant to the job\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ea PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere are different salary rules for workers in certain health or education jobs, and for ’new entrants’ at the start of their careers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor further information on the ‘going rate’ for specific occupations and further exemptions, see \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/skilled-worker-visa-going-rates-for-eligible-occupations\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eSkilled Worker visa: going rates for eligible occupation codes\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"a-total-of-70-points-is-needed-to-be-able-to-apply-to-work-in-the-uk\"\u003eA total of 70 points is needed to be able to apply to work in the UK\u003c/h3\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eCharacteristics\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eMandatory/Tradeable\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003ePoints\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eOffer of job by approved sponsor\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eMandatory\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eJob at appropriate skill level\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eMandatory\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eSpeaks English at required level\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eMandatory\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e10\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eSalary of £20,480 to £23,039 or at least 80% of the going rate for the profession (whichever is higher)\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTradeable\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e0\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eSalary of £23,040 to £25,599 or at least 90% of the going rate for the profession (whichever is higher)\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTradeable\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e10\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eSalary of £25,600 or above or at least the going rate for the profession (whichever is higher)\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTradeable\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eJob in a shortage occupation as designated by the Migration Advisory Committee\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTradeable\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eEducation qualification: PhD in a subject relevant to the job\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTradeable\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e10\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eEducation qualification: PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTradeable\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"identify-whether-a-job-meets-the-required-skill-level\"\u003eIdentify whether a job meets the required skill level\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll jobs have a corresponding \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/skilled-worker-visa-eligible-occupations\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eStandard Occupational Classification (SOC) code\u003c/a\u003e. Each SOC code has a designated skill level. This determines whether the job meets the requirements of the Skilled Worker route.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo help you match jobs to the correct occupation code, the Office for National Statistics has created an \u003ca rel=\"external\" href=\"https://onsdigital.github.io/dp-classification-tools/standard-occupational-classification/ONS_SOC_occupation_coding_tool.html\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eOccupation Coding Tool \u003c/a\u003e, which is available online.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"shortage-occupation-list\"\u003eShortage Occupation List\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"call-to-action\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Shortage Occupation List, which is recommended by the independent Migration Advisory Committee, is comprised of skilled jobs where there is an identified national shortage which is sensible to fill, at least in part, through immigration.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn occupation on the Shortage Occupation List results in lower application fees and reduced salary requirements, for skilled workers filling jobs which are in shortage. This does not, however, exempt jobs from the wider mandatory requirements of the Skilled Worker Route, including the skills threshold and the English language requirement.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"skilled-worker-case-studies\"\u003eSkilled Worker case studies\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eLab technician with a STEM PhD coming to the UK with salary offer of £21,000. The general salary threshold applies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eGeneral salary threshold: £25,600\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003ePoints\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eJob offer\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eRQF 3 or above\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eEnglish language\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e10\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eSalary\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e0\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eEducation qualification: STEM PhD\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTotal\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e70\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003cp\u003eMechanical engineer coming to the UK with salary offer of £26,750. The “going rate” salary threshold for the profession applies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eGeneral salary threshold: £33,400\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003ePoints\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eJob offer\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eRQF 3 or above\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eEnglish language\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e10\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eSalary\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e0\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eJob offer in a shortage occupation\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e20\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTotal\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e70\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"call-to-action\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAlongside the Skilled Worker route, there are a number of other immigration routes to provide businesses with the flexibility they need. Some of these routes do not require you to be a sponsor.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Global Talent route", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#global-talent-route", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#global-talent-route", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/global-talent\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eGlobal Talent route\u003c/a\u003e enables the most highly skilled individuals, who can achieve the required number of points, to enter the UK without a job offer if they are endorsed by a recognised UK body, as approved by the Home Office.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eApplicants can also work in the UK on a Global Talent visa if they’ve won an \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/global-talent-eligible-prize-list\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eeligible award\u003c/a\u003e. These prizes have been identified by the Global Talent endorsing bodies as demonstrating exceptional talent.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou do not need to be a licensed sponsor to employ a migrant under the Global Talent route.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis route is designed to attract recognised global leaders and promising individuals in science, humanities, engineering, the arts and digital technology. Top scientists and researchers can benefit from a quicker endorsement process as part of a fast track STEM scheme.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs of January 2021, the current list of approved endorsing bodies is as follows:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThe Royal Society, for science and medicine\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThe Royal Academy of Engineering, for engineering\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThe British Academy, for humanities\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eUK Research and Innovation, for science and research\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eTech Nation, for digital technology\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eArts Council England, for arts and culture\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Graduate route", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#graduate-route", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#graduate-route", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eGraduate route\u003c/a\u003e enables international students who have been awarded their degree to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, at any skill level for two years, or three years for doctoral students. It is an unsponsored route, meaning you do not need a sponsor licence to hire someone with a Graduate visa.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGraduate visa holders are able to work flexibly, switch jobs and develop their career as required. They cannot extend their visa, however they can switch to a different visa, for example a \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eSkilled Worker visa\u003c/a\u003e, once they have found a suitable job.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Intra-company Transfer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#intra-company-transfer", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#intra-company-transfer", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/intracompany-transfer-worker-visa\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eIntra-company visa\u003c/a\u003e allows multinational organisations to facilitate temporary moves into the UK for key business personnel through their subsidiary branches, subject to ICT sponsorship requirements being met. The route requires applicants to be in roles skilled to RQF 6 (graduate level equivalent), and subject to a different minimum salary threshold from the main Skilled Worker route.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Intra-company Graduate Trainee visa", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#intra-company-graduate-trainee-visa", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#intra-company-graduate-trainee-visa", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe Intra-Company Graduate Trainee route is for workers who are being transferred by the business they work for to undertake a role in the UK as part of a structured graduate training programme, with clearly defined progression towards a managerial or specialist role within the organisation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Intra-company routes will be replaced by a single, sponsored Global Business Mobility route. We aim to deliver the new route by spring 2022.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Start-up and Innovator", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#start-up-and-innovator", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#start-up-and-innovator", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe Start-up and Innovator routes are designed to attract entrepreneurial talent and innovative, scalable business ideas to the UK. Start-up is for those setting up an innovative business for the first time, and Innovator is for those with industry experience and at least £50,000 funding. Applicants can be individuals or teams.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Health and Care visa", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#health-and-care-visa", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#health-and-care-visa", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe Health and Care visa is part of the Skilled Worker route. It enables individuals to come to the UK to work if they are working in eligible health occupations, with a job offer from the NHS, adult social care sector or organisations that provide services to the NHS. Applicants benefit from a lower application fee, and are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Charge which applies to most other types of visa.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Creative route", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#creative-route", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#creative-route", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThis route is for applicants in the creative industry who are entering the United Kingdom for short-term contracts or engagements for up to 12 months. Applicants must have a confirmed job offer and their employment sponsored by a UK employer licensed by the Home Office.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Sporting routes", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#sporting-routes", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#sporting-routes", "text": "\u003cp\u003eInternational sportspeople must also have a confirmed job offer and their employment sponsored by a UK employer licenced by the Home Office. Additionally, they must have an endorsement from the relevant governing sports body.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Seasonal Workers Pilot", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#seasonal-workers-pilot", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#seasonal-workers-pilot", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe Seasonal Workers Pilot is currently running until the end of 2021 enabling the recruitment of 30,000 temporary workers to come to the UK for a period of up to 6 months to work in the horticulture sector only. For 2021 only, of the 30,000, up to 800 visas will be ringfenced for foreign butchers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition, time-limited visas are being offered to 4,700 HGV drivers in food distribution and 5,500 poultry workers in the run-up to Christmas 2021 to ease pressures caused by disruptions in the global supply chain.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Youth Mobility Scheme", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#youth-mobility-scheme", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#youth-mobility-scheme", "text": "\u003cp\u003eEmployers can also benefit from the youth mobility scheme. The UK has arrangements in place with ten countries and territories to enable around 20,000 young people to come to the UK to work and travel each year. Applicants must be 18 to 30 years old and can stay up to two years.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "EU citizens and applications to the EU Settlement Scheme", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#eu-citizens-and-applications-to-the-eu-settlement-scheme", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#eu-citizens-and-applications-to-the-eu-settlement-scheme", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families/applying-for-settled-status\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eEU Settlement Scheme\u003c/a\u003e was established to enable EU, EEA and Swiss citizens resident in the UK by 31 December 2020, and their family members, to get the immigration status they need to continue to live, work and study in the UK.  \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor those citizens resident in the UK by 31 December 2020, the deadline for applications was 30 June 2021.  \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs an employer you are not responsible for making sure your EU employees have applied. However, for many organisations the scheme has been an important aspect of workforce planning and retention. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhere an EU citizen has reasonable grounds for missing the EU Settlement Scheme application deadline, they will be given a further opportunity to apply. \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/right-to-work-checks-employers-guide\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eFull guidance has been published\u003c/a\u003e on the \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/eu-settlement-scheme-introduction-for-employers/eu-settlement-scheme-introduction-for-employers\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003esteps you should take\u003c/a\u003e as an employer if this situation arises. You should advise them that they must make an application within 28 days.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndividuals with settled status can spend up to five years in a row outside the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man without losing this status.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Frontier workers", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#frontier-workers", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#frontier-workers", "text": "\u003cp\u003eA \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/frontier-worker-permit\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003efrontier worker\u003c/a\u003e is someone from the EU who is employed, or self-employed in the UK, but lives elsewhere. Anyone frontier working in the UK by 31 December 2020 will be able to keep their status, but they will need to \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/frontier-worker-permit/apply\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eapply for a permit\u003c/a\u003e. Irish citizens who are frontier working into the UK do not need to apply for a permit, but they can if they want to.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Right to work checks", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#right-to-work-checks", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#right-to-work-checks", "text": "\u003cp\u003eEmployers should check job applicants have the right to work in the UK before hiring them, to avoid being liable for a civil penalty.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere are two types of right-to-work check: a manual check and an online check. The type of check you conduct will depend on the status of the individual you intend to employ, and in some circumstances, the individual’s preference.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA manual check can be completed for UK and Irish citizens who can, for example, use their passport as proof of right-to-work. You will also need to complete a manual check for individuals if they do not have an immigration status that can be shared with you online (\u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/view-and-prove-your-immigration-status-evisa\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eeVisa\u003c/a\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn online check is required for individuals who only hold an eVisa. This applies to most EU citizens, including those with settled or pre-settled status, anyone with a Hong Kong BNO visa and some other nationalities who have moved to the UK more recently under the points-based immigration system.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs of 1 July 2021, you can no longer accept an EU citizen’s passport or ID card alone as evidence of their right to work and will have to check their right to work online (with the exception of Irish citizens).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/check-job-applicant-right-to-work\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003ecarry out an online right to work check\u003c/a\u003e, you’ll need:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ethe applicant’s date of birth\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003etheir share code which they will have obtained online\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou must not discriminate when conducting right to work checks. The Home Office has published \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/illegal-working-penalties-codes-of-practice-for-employers\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003estatutory codes of practice\u003c/a\u003e for employers on how to avoid unlawful discrimination when undertaking checks. This guidance clearly stipulates that employers should provide individuals with every opportunity to demonstrate their right to work and must not discriminate on the basis of race or any of the other protected characteristics.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo assist you in carrying out right to work checks, we have developed a right to work check video:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ca rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNrOr_GmcKM\u0026amp;t=5s\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eright to work check video\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Becoming a licensed sponsor", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#becoming-a-licensed-sponsor", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#becoming-a-licensed-sponsor", "text": "\u003cdiv class=\"call-to-action\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIf you are not already a licensed sponsor and you think you will want to sponsor migrants through the Skilled Worker route, you should apply now.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eBefore applying you should check that the people you want to hire will meet the requirements for coming to the UK for work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe standard processing time for an application is usually eight weeks and will start when we receive your application. As a licensed sponsor, you will be able to hire eligible employees from anywhere in the world.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSome immigration routes, such as Graduate or Global Talent, are ‘unsponsored’. You don’t need a licence to hire employees with an unsponsored visa.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou do not need to be a sponsor to recruit Irish citizens or anyone from the resident labour market with an existing right to work in the UK. This includes EU citizens with settled or pre-settled status, and non-EU citizens with indefinite leave to remain in the UK.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou will need to:\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"check-your-business-is-eligible\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"number\"\u003e1. \u003c/span\u003e Check your business is eligible\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo get a licence, you cannot have unspent criminal convictions for immigration offences or certain other crimes, such as fraud or money laundering.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"choose-the-type-of-skilled-worker-licence-you-want-to-apply-for\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"number\"\u003e2. \u003c/span\u003e Choose the type of skilled worker licence you want to apply for\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis will depend on whether you are sponsoring a job applicant for general purposes, or for the purpose of an ICT. You can apply for a licence covering either or both.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"decide-who-will-manage-sponsorship-within-your-business\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"number\"\u003e3. \u003c/span\u003e Decide who will manage sponsorship within your business\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou need to appoint people within your business to manage the sponsorship process when you apply for a licence. The main tool they’ll use is the sponsorship management system (SMS). The roles are:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eauthorising officer – a senior and competent person responsible for the actions of staff and representatives who use the SMS\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ekey contact – your main point of contact with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003elevel 1 user – responsible for all day-to-day management of your licence using the SMS\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese roles can be filled by the same person or different people\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3 id=\"apply-online-and-pay-a-fee\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"number\"\u003e4. \u003c/span\u003e Apply online and pay a fee\u003c/h3\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eType of licence\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eFee for small or charitable sponsors\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eFee for medium or large sponsors\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eWorker Sponsor Licence\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£536\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£1,476\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eTemporary Worker\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£536\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£536\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eWorker and Temporary Worker\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£536\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£1,476\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eAdding a Worker licence to an existing Temporary Worker licence\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eNo fee\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£940\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eAdding a Temporary Worker licence to an existing Worker licence\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eNo fee\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eNo fee\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe fees stated are current as of July 2021. Fees are kept under review and may be subject to change. Please check \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-fees-transparency-data\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eGOV.UK\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou’re usually a small business if:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eyour annual turnover is £10.2 million or less\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eyou have 50 employees or fewer\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eContact the Business Helpdesk if you’re unsure which category your business fits into: \u003ca href=\"mailto:businesshelpdesk@homeoffice.gov.uk\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003ebusinesshelpdesk@homeoffice.gov.uk\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Immigration skills charge", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#immigration-skills-charge", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers#immigration-skills-charge", "text": "\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers/immigration-skills-charge\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eimmigration skills charge\u003c/a\u003e is a fee paid by a UK employer for each skilled migrant worker they employ through the Skilled Worker and Intra-company Transfer routes. The charge is intended to act as an incentive for employers to recruit and train resident workers rather than migrant workers. Funds raised by the charge are used to support skills and training programmes in the UK. You will need to pay the charge when sponsoring both EU and non-EU migrant workers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003ePeriod\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eSmall or charitable sponsors\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eMedium or large sponsors\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eFirst 12 months\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£364\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£1,000\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003eEach additional 6 months\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£182\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd\u003e£500\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eFor full guidance on becoming a sponsor or to begin your application, visit GOV.UK\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor more information on the points-based immigration system and to sign up for email alerts, visit \u003ca rel=\"external\" href=\"https://pbisemployers.campaign.gov.uk/\" class=\"govuk-link\"\u003eGOV.UK/HiringFromTheEU\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e" } } ] } </script><script type="application/ld+json"> { "@context": "http://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "item": { "name": "Home", "@id": "https://www.gov.uk/" } }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "item": { "name": "Entering and staying in the UK", "@id": "https://www.gov.uk/entering-staying-uk" } }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "item": { "name": "Rights of foreign nationals in the UK", "@id": "https://www.gov.uk/entering-staying-uk/rights-foreign-nationals-uk" } }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "item": { "name": "Foreign nationals working in the UK", "@id": "https://www.gov.uk/entering-staying-uk/Foreign-nationals-working-in-UK" } }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 5, "item": { "name": "UK points-based immigration system: employer information", "@id": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information" } } ] } </script> </body> </html>