Points-based system - apply for your sponsor licence as soon as possible
01 October 2008
This year we began the roll-out of our points-based system - the biggest shake-up of our immigration system for 45 years. At the end of November we will be launching the skilled worker tier (tier 2) and the temporary worker tier (tier 5).
Under the points-based system, employers will need a sponsor licence to bring in skilled or temporary workers from outside the European Economic Area or Switzerland. You should make your application for a sponsor licence as soon as possible so we can make sure you get the earliest possible decision and minimise any delays to your recruitment process. In order to help us process your application please make sure that you send in a complete and accurate application, fee and appropriate supporting documentation. If we contact you to request further information or to arrange a visit please comply as soon as possible.
The section on sponsorship under the points-based system contains all the information you need to make your licence application.
If you are still unsure about how the points-based system will work, watch our short overview video.