Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) is an essential step towards securing a UK working visa. This certificate is issued by the UK government and is required by anyone who wishes to work legally in the UK. A COS is a document that proves that a UK employer has permission to employ an individual from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
The process of getting a COS can be complex and time-consuming, but it is essential for those who wish to pursue employment opportunities in the UK. In this article, we will take a closer look at the process of obtaining a COS for the UK working visa.
Step 1: Find an Employer
The first step towards obtaining a COS is to find an employer who is willing to sponsor you. The employer must be registered with the UK government’s Sponsor Management System (SMS) and must have a valid Tier 2 Sponsor License. You can search for such employers on the internet or through recruitment agencies.
Step 2: Job Offer
Once you have found an employer who is willing to sponsor you, the employer will offer you a job. The job offer must be for a skilled job that cannot be filled by a resident worker. The job should also meet the English language requirement and should pay at least £20,800 per annum.
Step 3: Employer Applies for a COS
After you have received a job offer, your employer will apply for a COS on your behalf. The employer will need to provide details about the job, the salary, and the reasons why you are the best candidate for the job. Your employer will also need to provide evidence that they have conducted a Resident Labor Market Test, which is a requirement that ensures that no qualified resident worker is available for the job.
Step 4: Receive a COS
If your employer’s application for a COS is successful, you will receive a COS reference number. This reference number is essential, as it will be required when you apply for your UK working visa.
Step 5: Apply for a UK Working Visa
Once you have received a COS reference number, you can apply for your UK working visa. You will need to provide evidence of your qualifications, English language proficiency, and any other documents required by the UK government. You will also need to pay the appropriate visa fee, which will depend on the type of visa you are applying for and the length of your stay.
FAQs:
1. What is a COS Certificate, and why is it required?
A COS (Certificate of Sponsorship) is a document that proves that a UK employer has permission to employ an individual who is not an EEA national or Swiss citizen. It is required for anyone who wishes to work in the UK.
2. How do I find an employer who is willing to sponsor me?
You can find eligible employers on the internet or through recruitment agencies. You can also contact companies that have a Tier 2 Sponsor License.
3. What skills or qualifications do I need to qualify for a UK working visa?
To qualify for a UK working visa, you will need a job offer from an eligible employer, a salary of at least £20,800 per annum, and English language proficiency.
4. What are the visa fees for a UK working visa?
The visa fees will depend on the type of visa you are applying for and the length of your stay.
In conclusion, obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) is a crucial step towards securing a UK working visa. It requires finding an eligible employer who is willing to sponsor you, having the necessary skills and qualifications, and following the correct procedure for obtaining a COS and applying for a UK working visa. With a little determination and effort, you can achieve your dreams of working in the UK.