How to Find a Licensed Sponsor in the UK – Graduate Guide 2025

Turning your UK degree into a long-term career

You’ve completed your studies and enjoyed the freedom of the Graduate Visa, but you’re now looking for a more permanent future. The key is finding a licensed sponsor, an employer approved by the Home Office to hire international workers.

If you secure sponsorship, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa and stay in the UK for up to five years. This guide explains exactly how to find a licensed employer, what to look for, and how to approach them confidently.

Who this guide is for

• International graduates currently on a Graduate Visa
• UK employers wanting to hire overseas talent
• Students planning their career before graduation

Whether you’re already working or still looking, understanding sponsorship is the first step toward building a stable career in the UK.

Key requirements for sponsorship

Before you begin your search, it helps to know what makes a company eligible to sponsor you.

Eligibility

Your employer must:

• Hold a valid Home Office Sponsor Licence
• Offer a job listed under an eligible occupation code
• Pay at least the minimum salary threshold
• Issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) once you accept the role

Salary and occupation codes

Most graduates will need to earn at least £38,700 per year or the “going rate” for their job, whichever is higher.
If you qualify as a new entrant or your role is on the shortage occupation list, a lower threshold may apply.

Documents you will need

• Valid passport and current visa
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• Job offer letter with salary details
• Proof of English language ability (often your UK degree)

Step-by-step guide to finding a licensed sponsor

Step 1: Check the official list of sponsors

Visit the Home Office Register of Licensed Sponsors, it’s free and updated regularly. You can search by company name or industry to see if an employer holds a licence.

Step 2: Target industries that regularly sponsor

Certain sectors hire international graduates more often than others, such as:

• Technology and engineering
• Finance and accounting
• Healthcare and social care
• Hospitality and catering
• Education and research

Step 3: Use smart job search filters

Many job sites like Indeed and LinkedIn allow you to filter for “visa sponsorship” roles. Look for phrases such as “Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship available” in job descriptions.

Step 4: Approach employers professionally

If you find a great opportunity with a non-licensed company, don’t rule them out. Many UK employers are open to becoming sponsors once they understand the process.
Explain how licensing works and that it allows them to retain skilled staff long-term.

Step 5: Seek support if you get stuck

If you’re unsure how to check codes, salary rates, or licence status, speak to an immigration advisor. Professional guidance ensures you don’t waste time on ineligible roles.

Timeline and fees to expect

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming all UK employers can sponsor

Only companies on the Home Office Register can legally sponsor you.

Ignoring salary requirements

Even if your job title qualifies, you must still meet the minimum salary or going rate.

Waiting too long to apply

Start looking for sponsors at least six months before your Graduate Visa expires.

Not checking occupation codes

Always confirm your job matches the official code used by your employer.

How AHJ Immigration helps graduates find sponsors

Finding the right employer can feel overwhelming, but we make it simple. At AHJ Immigration, we:

• Help you identify licensed sponsors in your sector
• Check if your job and salary meet eligibility rules
• Guide employers through sponsorship applications
• Support you through the Skilled Worker Visa process from start to finish

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 or book your free online consultation now.

Book your consultation

Free 30-minute consultation

We start with a free session covering visa routes and rules, including how sponsorship works and what employers look for.

Or call 0121 828 2224 to book by phone.

Paid 1-hour consultation (£120)

After your free call, you can book a 1-hour session where we:

• Review your CV and eligibility
• Analyse potential sponsor options
• Provide written advice and next steps

This fee is deducted from your final application cost if you continue with us.

FAQs

1. Where can I find the official sponsor list?
On the UK Home Office website under “Register of Licensed Sponsors – Workers.”

2. Can my current employer apply for a licence?
Yes. They can apply to become a sponsor if they meet Home Office requirements.

3. How long does sponsorship approval take?
Usually 8–12 weeks, though some employers qualify for priority processing.

4. What if my job doesn’t meet the salary threshold?
You may qualify as a new entrant or under a shortage occupation role. Check current Home Office guidance.

5. Can AHJ Immigration help my employer get licensed?
Yes. We regularly assist businesses in applying for sponsorship licences and training them on compliance.

Our process

1. Free Consultation – Overview of your situation and immigration rules.
2. Paid Consultation – Detailed document analysis and written advice.
3. Gathering Documents – Templates, checklists, and 1-to-1 consultant support.
4. Application Stage – Final review and submission of your application.
5. Waiting Phase – We monitor your case and assist with queries.
6. Decision Phase – We explain your decision and next steps, helping you stay compliant or resubmit if needed.

Disclaimer

Fees and requirements are always subject to change as UK immigration is ever-evolving. The information provided is correct at the time of publishing. We regularly update our guides to reflect the latest Home Office guidance.

Secure your future with the right sponsor

The right sponsor can turn your UK degree into a permanent career path. With early planning and expert guidance, you can find an employer who values your skills and supports your visa journey.

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 or book your free consultation.

After your free session, book a paid 1-hour consultation (£120) for detailed document and sponsor advice, and we’ll deduct the fee from your final application cost if you continue with us.

Your career in the UK starts with the right employer. Let’s find them together.