Sponsor application checklist

This checklist helps you to decide whether you are ready to apply for a sponsor licence under the points-based system.

Please note that this is not an absolute test that your application will succeed - it is simly a guide to the basic requirements and the most common pitfalls in the application process.

The essentials

To be eligible to become a sponsor, you must be able to say 'Yes' to whichever of these statements apply to you. If you need further detail, use the 'See also' links or refer to the relevant paragraphs of the Guidance for sponsor applications.

Statement	Answer	See also	Guidance for sponsors
We are a genuine organisation, based in and operating lawfully in the UK.	Yes	Eligibility for a sponsor licence	Paragraph 84
We are a multinational company based outside the UK with a direct link by common ownership or control to entities who are genuine organisations based in, and operating lawfully in, the UK.	Yes	Eligibility for Tier 2 (Intra Company Transfer)	Paragraph 154-155, Appendix A
We can provide originals or certified copies of all the documents needed to support our application.	Yes	Supporting evidence you must send	Paragraphs 14, 98, Appendix A

Preferential requirements

If you can also tick 'Yes' to the following statements, you will increase the chances of your organisation becoming an A-rated sponsor. The 'See also' links and references to the Guidance for sponsor applications provide more information.

Statement	Answer	See also	Guidance for sponsors
We use clear and robust HR systems.	Yes	How we rate human resource systems	Paragraphs 107, 327, 377
The jobs we want to offer to migrant workers are at a skill level of S/NVQ level 3 or above.	Yes	Categories of skilled worker	Paragraphs 146 -148

Potential problems

If you can answer 'No' to these questions, you will probably avoid the main issues that might result in your organisation becoming a B-rated sponsor. Follow the 'See also' links or references to the Guidance for sponsor applications to help sort out any problem areas.

Question	Answer	See also	Guidance for sponsors
Are you or any of your key personnel barred from being company directors for any reason other than through being an un-discharged bankrupt?	No	Key personnel Staff convictions and civil penalties	Paragraph 374
Has your organisation been issued with a civil penalty for employing illegal workers, or for other immigration-related matters in the past 6 months?	No	Staff convictions and civil penalties