UK Self-Sponsorship Visa: The Smart Route for Entrepreneurs in 2025
The Self-Sponsorship Route offers entrepreneurs and skilled professionals the opportunity to live and work in the UK without needing a traditional UK-based sponsor. This pathway is ideal for individuals who want to establish or expand their own business in the UK while gaining the freedom to manage their visa independently.
Key Requirements for the Self-Sponsorship Route
Establish a UK Company
- You must incorporate a private limited company in the UK (e.g., through Companies House).
- You should be either the sole director or hold a significant ownership stake.
Secure a Sponsor Licence
- Your UK business must obtain a sponsor licence from the Home Office to sponsor workers, including yourself.
- The business must prove it is a genuine trading entity and meet compliance obligations.
Create a Genuine Role
- The business must offer a genuine, skilled role that meets the requirements of the UK Skilled Worker visa (e.g., management, tech, marketing, etc.).
- The job must meet minimum salary thresholds set by the Home Office.
Meet the English Language Requirement
- You must prove English proficiency at CEFR level B1 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening), unless exempt.
Financial Requirement
- You should demonstrate you have enough personal funds to support yourself (usually £1,270 in your account for 28 days).
- Business funding is not mandated but is recommended for sustainability and operations.
Supporting Documents Typically Required
Discover essential criteria for successful self-sponsorship applications.
Certificate of incorporation of the UK company
Sponsor licence approval letter
Proof of qualifications and experience
English language certificate (if required)
Business plan outlining your role, activities, and viability
Employment contract and job description
Proof of maintenance funds
Understand Self-Sponsorship Criteria
Explore comprehensive requirements and eligibility criteria for the self-sponsorship immigration pathway, tailored for professionals seeking independence.
Eligibility Requirements
Review the key qualifications needed to pursue self-sponsorship successfully.
Application Process
Step-by-step instructions to navigate the self-sponsorship application with confidence and compliance.
Supporting Documentation
Identify the necessary documents that strengthen your self-sponsorship application.
Timeline & Validity
Discover how DavidsonMorris guides you through the self-sponsorship immigration process with expert insights.
- Sponsor Licence: ~8 weeks (standard processing)
- Skilled Worker Visa: ~3 weeks (after submission)
- Visa Validity: Initially up to 5 years with a path to permanent residency (ILR)
