A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is the electronic document you must assign to each overseas worker before they can apply for their visa. Getting it right first time is essential — errors cause delays and can trigger compliance concerns.
A CoS is not a physical document — it’s an electronic record created on the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) that contains all the details of the job, the worker, and the sponsoring employer. Each CoS has a unique reference number that the worker uses in their visa application.
As a licensed sponsor, you are responsible for ensuring all information on the CoS is accurate, complete, and complies with immigration rules.
Access the Sponsorship Management System using your Level 1 User credentials
Input personal information, passport details, and job particulars accurately
Ensure the salary meets the minimum threshold and the SOC code matches the role
Once assigned, share the CoS reference number with your worker for their visa application
A defined CoS is for workers applying from outside the UK and requires individual UKVI approval before assignment. An undefined CoS is for workers already in the UK switching visa categories and can be assigned immediately from your allocation.
A CoS is valid for 3 months from the date of assignment. The worker must use it to submit their visa application within this period, or it will expire and a new one must be assigned.
Yes — for workers outside the UK, you assign a defined CoS before they apply for their visa. They will use the CoS reference number in their visa application.
You need the worker’s personal details, passport information, job title, SOC code, salary, start date, and work location. All information must be accurate as errors can delay or cause refusal.
Our experts ensure every CoS is assigned correctly, avoiding costly delays and compliance issues.
