Build Your Business. Sponsor Yourself. Settle in the UK.
Self sponsorship is a term commonly used to describe an arrangement in which a UK business sponsors an eligible worker who also has an ownership interest in that business. It is not a separate visa category. The business must meet the sponsor licence requirements, and the applicant must independently meet the Skilled Worker requirements.
This isn't a standalone visa category, it's a structured immigration strategy that combines company formation with sponsor licensing to create a legitimate, HMRC- and Home Office-compliant route into the UK.
At Waltham Law Chambers, we guide founders through every stage of this route — from incorporating the right company structure to securing your personal visa — ensuring your application meets the Home Office's genuine business and genuine vacancy requirements at every step.
How the Self-Sponsorship Route Works
UK Company Formation
We advise on and support the setup of a genuine, operational UK company — structured correctly from day one to meet Home Office scrutiny around legitimacy, funding, and commercial activity.
Sponsor Licence Application
Once your company is incorporated, we manage the full Sponsor Licence application on its behalf, preparing the evidence needed to demonstrate a genuine, active UK business capable of sponsoring workers.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
With the licence granted, we assist your company in issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship for your role, ensuring the position meets skill level, salary, and genuine vacancy requirements under the Skilled Worker route.
Personal Visa Application
Finally, we prepare and submit your personal Skilled Worker visa application, using the CoS issued by your own company, the final step in becoming your own sponsor.
Why Choose the Self-Sponsorship Route
Business ownership does not remove sponsorship duties or visa conditions. Any future extension or settlement application depends on the requirements in force and the applicant’s circumstances at that time.
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A recognised, structured pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
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No dependence on finding an external UK employer to sponsor you
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Bring your partner and children with you as dependants