UK visa & immigration service
Explore whether a genuine UK business and Skilled Worker sponsorship structure may fit your plans.
- Business and immigration strategy
- Sponsor licence preparation
- Skilled Worker application support
“Self-sponsorship” is not a separate UK visa category. The term is commonly used for a lawful structure in which a genuine UK business obtains a sponsor licence and sponsors an owner, director or other worker for an eligible role under the Skilled Worker route.
Owning or controlling a company does not create an automatic right to sponsorship or a visa. The business, role, salary, Certificate of Sponsorship and applicant must each satisfy the applicable rules, and the vacancy must be genuine.
What needs to be assessed?
- Whether the UK business is genuine, trading or credibly preparing to trade
- Whether the company is eligible for the correct sponsor licence
- Whether the proposed job is genuine and eligible for sponsorship
- Whether the salary and going-rate requirements are met
- Whether suitable Key Personnel and HR compliance systems are in place
- Whether the applicant meets the Skilled Worker requirements
How Leon Advisers can help
- Assess the proposed business and immigration structure
- Identify legal and evidential risks before submission
- Prepare the sponsor licence application and supporting representations
- Review the proposed role, occupation code and salary position
- Support the Certificate of Sponsorship and Skilled Worker application stages
- Explain ongoing sponsor duties and compliance expectations
Important information
This route involves both company-level and individual immigration requirements. Any arrangement created only to obtain immigration permission, or any role that is not genuine, may lead to refusal and sponsor compliance action.
Regulated immigration support
Leon Advisers provides regulated immigration support tailored to the facts of each case. We explain the scope of work and professional fee before instructions begin. The Home Office makes every immigration decision and no outcome can be guaranteed.
Read the official GOV.UK sponsor guidance
Contact Leon Advisers to discuss your circumstances
Last reviewed: 27 August 2026.
Immigration rules and Home Office guidance can change. This page provides general information and is not a substitute for advice on your individual circumstances.
Ready to take the next step?
Start with a clear first conversation.
Tell us about your circumstances and the outcome you are working towards.