Sponsoring Skilled Workers in 2026

The rules for sponsoring overseas workers have changed significantly, making it increasingly important for UK employers to understand the current Skilled Worker visa requirements before recruiting internationally.

As of 2026, businesses face higher salary and skill thresholds, increased sponsor licence and visa fees, a higher English language requirement and tighter restrictions on certain occupations.

At DJF Solicitors, Lexvisa, our specialist immigration division, advises businesses across London and the UK on sponsor licences, Skilled Worker visas and Home Office compliance.

What Is a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence?

A Skilled Worker sponsor licence allows an eligible UK employer to sponsor overseas nationals to work in qualifying roles.

Once licensed by the Home Office, an employer can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to an eligible worker, enabling them to apply for a Skilled Worker visa.

Holding a sponsor licence also carries ongoing compliance obligations. Employers must maintain appropriate systems, monitor sponsored workers and report relevant changes to the Home Office.

Most Worker sponsor licences no longer need to be renewed every four years and will generally remain valid unless surrendered or revoked.

What Is the Skilled Worker Salary Threshold in 2026?

For most new Skilled Worker applications, the standard salary threshold is now £41,700 per year or the applicable going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher.

This is an increase from the previous £38,700 general threshold.

Lower salary requirements can apply in certain circumstances, including some new entrants, applicants with relevant PhD qualifications and other specified categories. Transitional rules may also apply to existing Skilled Workers.

Employers should therefore check the salary requirement for the specific occupation before assigning sponsorship. Our specialist immigration team can advise employers on the relevant requirements, contact us today.

Has the Skilled Worker Skill Requirement Changed?

Yes. For most new applications, sponsored jobs must now be skilled to at least RQF Level 6, broadly equivalent to graduate-level skill.

Some medium-skilled roles at RQF Levels 3 to 5 can still qualify if they are included on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List, or where transitional provisions apply.

The Temporary Shortage List is currently time-limited, so businesses intending to recruit for medium-skilled roles should obtain up-to-date advice before proceeding.

What Is the English Language Requirement in 2026?

For most people making their first Skilled Worker application from 8 January 2026, the English language requirement increased from CEFR Level B1 to Level B2.

Applicants must demonstrate the required standard in reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Existing Skilled Workers who obtained permission under the previous rules may continue to qualify at B1 when extending or updating their permission in certain circumstances.

How Much Does a Sponsor Licence Cost in 2026?

Home Office fees increased on 8 April 2026.

The current Worker sponsor licence fees are:

£611 for a small or charitable sponsor

£1,682 for a medium or large sponsor

The priority service for an eligible sponsor licence application remains £750, subject to availability.

A Certificate of Sponsorship for a Skilled Worker currently costs £525.

How Much Is the Immigration Skills Charge?

The Immigration Skills Charge also increased substantially for Certificates of Sponsorship assigned from 16 December 2025.

For a small or charitable sponsor, the charge is generally £480 for the first 12 months and £240 for each additional six months.

For a medium or large sponsor, it is generally £1,320 for the first 12 months and £660 for each additional six months.

Exemptions apply in certain circumstances. Contact DJF Solicitors to obtain legal advice from their specialist immigration team.

Employers must pay applicable sponsorship charges themselves. The Home Office places restrictions on passing the sponsor licence fee, Certificate of Sponsorship fee, Immigration Skills Charge and associated sponsorship costs to sponsored workers.

Have Skilled Worker Visa Fees Increased?

Yes. Skilled Worker visa application fees increased from 8 April 2026.

For standard applications made outside the UK, the fee is currently £819 for up to three years and £1,618 for more than three years.

For standard applications made inside the UK, the corresponding fees are £943 and £1,865.

Different fees apply in some circumstances, including qualifying Health and Care Worker applications and jobs on the Immigration Salary List.

Can Employers Sponsor Medium-Skilled Workers?

Sponsorship below RQF Level 6 is now significantly restricted.

Certain medium-skilled occupations can continue to qualify if they appear on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List, while transitional protection may apply to some existing Skilled Workers.

There are also restrictions on dependants for workers newly sponsored in certain medium-skilled roles. Speak with our expert immigration team for guidance on restrictions and whether they apply to the workers you are considering hiring.

Employers should therefore establish whether the specific occupation remains eligible before making an offer based on Skilled Worker sponsorship.

Can Employers Sponsor Care Workers from Overseas?

New overseas applications for care workers and senior care workers closed from 22 July 2025.

There are limited transitional arrangements allowing certain individuals already in the UK to switch into qualifying care roles, currently intended to operate until 2028 subject to the applicable requirements.

Care sector employers should seek advice before assigning sponsorship, particularly given the increased Home Office scrutiny of the sector.

Sponsor Licence Compliance

Obtaining a sponsor licence is only the beginning of an employer's responsibilities.

Sponsors must comply with Home Office requirements relating to record keeping, reporting, right to work checks and monitoring sponsored workers.

Non-compliance can result in licence suspension, revocation or restrictions on future sponsorship.

Lexvisa, the immigration division of DJF Solicitors, can assist businesses with sponsor licence applications, Skilled Worker sponsorship and ongoing compliance.

Why Choose DJF Solicitors?

DJF Solicitors provides practical business immigration advice to employers across London and the UK. Through Lexvisa, our specialist immigration division, we assist with sponsor licence applications, Skilled Worker visas, sponsor compliance and Home Office action.

Call DJF Solicitors on 02030110276 to speak to our immigration team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Skilled Worker minimum salary in 2026?

For most new applications, the standard requirement is £41,700 per year or the applicable going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher. Different thresholds can apply in certain circumstances.

What skill level is required for a Skilled Worker visa?

Most newly sponsored roles must be at RQF Level 6 or above. Limited exceptions apply to eligible medium-skilled occupations.

What is the English language requirement for a Skilled Worker visa in 2026?

Most first-time Skilled Worker applicants from 8 January 2026 must meet CEFR Level B2. Transitional rules allow certain existing Skilled Workers to continue meeting B1.

How much does a Skilled Worker sponsor licence cost?

The current fee is £611 for a small or charitable sponsor and £1,682 for a medium or large sponsor.

How much does a Certificate of Sponsorship cost?

A Skilled Worker Certificate of Sponsorship currently costs £525.

Does a sponsor licence need to be renewed?