When applying for a UK visa, the term “sponsorship” can cause confusion. Some applicants hear about visa sponsorship letters, while others are told they need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Although they sound similar, these are two very different things, used for very different visa types.
In this article, we explain the distinction between the two, how they are used in UK immigration and why knowing the difference is vital when planning your application.
What is a visa sponsorship letter?
A visa sponsorship letter is a supporting document that can accompany an application for a visitor visa or similar short-term category. It is often written by a UK-based person or organisation who is inviting the applicant to visit the country. This could be a family member, a friend, an event organiser or even an employer who wants the applicant to attend a short-term meeting or engagement.
The purpose of the letter is to strengthen the visa application by confirming details such as:
- The sponsor’s name, address and immigration status in the UK
- Their relationship to the applicant
- The purpose and duration of the applicant’s visit
- Whether accommodation or financial support will be provided
For example, if someone is travelling to attend a wedding, the host might provide a sponsorship letter confirming the arrangements. Or, if an overseas speaker is invited to present at a UK conference, the organiser may issue a letter setting out the purpose of the trip.
It is important to note that a sponsorship letter is not always a legal requirement, and it does not guarantee visa approval. However, it can provide valuable supporting evidence to demonstrate the applicant’s plans and credibility.
What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
A Certificate of Sponsorship is very different. It is a formal digital record generated through the Home Office’s online Sponsorship Management System (SMS). Unlike a letter, it is not a document that can be printed or written informally. Instead, it is a unique reference number issued by a UK employer that holds a valid sponsor licence.
A Certificate of Sponsorship is essential for those applying under work-based visa routes such as the Skilled Worker visa or Global Business Mobility routes. Without one, an applicant cannot proceed with their visa application.
There are two main types of Certificate of Sponsorship. A defined CoS is used when someone is applying from outside the UK, while an undefined CoS applies to people switching visas or extending their stay from within the country. Each certificate contains key information such as the job title, occupation code, salary, start date and the employer’s details.
The CoS must be used within three months of being issued and it is valid for a single visa application only. While it confirms that a licensed employer is sponsoring the applicant, it does not guarantee that the visa will be approved. Applicants must still meet salary thresholds, English language requirements and other eligibility rules.
Key differences between sponsorship letters and Certificates of Sponsorship
Although they both involve the concept of sponsorship, these two tools serve very different purposes. A sponsorship letter is a helpful supporting document, most often used for visitor visas, written by an individual or organisation. A Certificate of Sponsorship, on the other hand, is an official digital record used for work visas, generated only by employers with a sponsor licence.
The sponsorship letter is more informal in nature and aims to reassure the Home Office about the applicant’s intentions. The Certificate of Sponsorship is a formal requirement with strict compliance rules for employers. If a business issues a CoS incorrectly, they risk penalties or even losing their sponsor licence.
Practical examples
Imagine a student’s parents want to attend their graduation ceremony in London. They can include a sponsorship letter with their visitor visa application, written by the student, confirming where they will stay and how long they will visit.
Now consider a different scenario. A UK-based IT company wants to hire a skilled developer from abroad. Before the candidate can apply for their Skilled Worker visa, the company must assign them a Certificate of Sponsorship through the Home Office system. Without this digital record, the visa application would be rejected.
When might an employer issue a letter instead of a CoS?
Employers may sometimes provide a sponsorship letter for short visits, such as attending meetings or events on a visitor visa. However, whenever a role involves formal employment or paid work in the UK, a Certificate of Sponsorship is the mandatory requirement. Letters cannot replace this process and would not be accepted for a work visa application.
The bottom line for applicants and sponsors
A visa sponsorship letter and a Certificate of Sponsorship may sound similar, but they are used in very different circumstances. The sponsorship letter is supportive, often informal and relevant to visitor visa applications. The Certificate of Sponsorship is formal, mandatory for work visa routes and can only be issued by a licensed employer through the Home Office system.
If you are planning to visit or work in the UK, it is vital to know which type of sponsorship applies to your situation. For expert advice on both visitor and work visas, Osbourne Pinner’s immigration solicitors can guide you through the process.
We’re on hand in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus and Manchester. But we can also talk on a video call to discuss your circumstances remotely. That starts with a free 30-minute consultation to help you understand your options and prepare a strong application. Use the form below, call 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected].
