Applying for certificates of sponsorship
The Home Office has announced that it intends to increase some of its fees to contribute to funding the migration and borders system, and reduce the cost to the taxpayer.
The changes announced in Parliament on Thursday 16 January 2025 include a proposed increase in the cost of a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
At the moment, the fee for a CoS is £239. Home Office will announce when these changes come into effect – when it does, the cost of a sponsorship fee will be £525. The change will affect new visa applications and sponsorship renewals.
We will update this page at the conclusion of the legislative process. Read our latest news for more information that includes questions and answers.
A sponsorship licence holder is the organisation responsible for issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) directly to the migrant.
The CoS is not an actual document but a reference number which the migrant can use to apply for leave to remain in, or entry to the UK. This step-by-step guide highlights the differences between undefined and defined CoS and the process employers should use when applying for them.
Below is a step-by-step guide on how employers can complete the CoS process.
More resources about the sponsorship licence system is available on the NHS Employers website.
