Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship: For skilled professionals aiming to build a career in the United Kingdom, Tier 2 visa sponsorship has long been one of the most reliable legal pathways to work and settle in the country. Although the former Tier 2 (General) visa has now been replaced by the Skilled Worker visa under the UK’s points-based immigration system, the term “Tier 2 visa sponsorship” remains widely used by employers and job seekers alike. In practical terms, it refers to UK employers sponsoring overseas workers for eligible skilled roles when they cannot fill vacancies locally.
Whether you are a healthcare professional job in USA, IT specialist, engineer, teacher, hospitality manager, or skilled tradesperson, understanding how Tier 2 visa sponsorship works can open doors to life-changing opportunities in the UK. This in-depth guide explains eligibility requirements, industries hiring sponsored workers, salary thresholds, application steps, benefits, challenges, and how to improve your chances of securing a sponsored job.
Key Takeaways
- Tier 2 visa sponsorship now operates under the UK Skilled Worker visa system.
- You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor overseas workers.
- Jobs must meet skill level and minimum salary thresholds set by the UK government.
- Healthcare, IT, engineering, education, and hospitality offer strong sponsorship opportunities.
- Sponsored roles can lead to permanent settlement in the UK after meeting residency requirements.
What Is Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship?
Tier 2 visa sponsorship refers to a UK employer sponsoring a foreign national to work legally in the country under the Skilled Worker route. The previous Tier 2 (General) category was restructured after Brexit and incorporated into the UK’s updated immigration framework.
Under this system:
- The employer must hold a valid sponsorship licence.
- The worker must receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- The job must meet required skill and salary levels.
- The applicant must meet English language requirements.
The program is administered by the UK government and applies across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa System
The modern Tier 2 route falls under the UK’s points-based system. Applicants must score enough points based on:
- Job offer from an approved sponsor
- Appropriate skill level
- Minimum salary threshold
- English proficiency
- Maintenance funds (if required)
While the structure has evolved, the goal remains the same: attracting skilled international talent to fill labour shortages.
Who Can Apply for Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship?
Tier 2 sponsorship is open to professionals whose roles appear on the UK’s eligible occupation list. Common categories include:
- Doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers
- IT specialists and software developers
- Engineers and construction professionals
- Teachers and education specialists
- Hospitality managers and chefs
- Skilled tradespeople
Applicants typically need relevant qualifications, work experience, and proof of English proficiency.
Industries Offering the Most Tier 2 Sponsorship Jobs
Healthcare
The UK’s National Health Service frequently sponsors overseas professionals due to ongoing workforce shortages. Doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and care workers are in consistent demand.
Information Technology
The UK tech sector recruits software engineers, cybersecurity experts, cloud architects, and data analysts from around the world.
Engineering and Construction
Civil, mechanical, electrical, and structural engineers are heavily recruited for infrastructure and energy projects.
Education
Secondary school teachers in subjects such as mathematics, science, and foreign languages are regularly sponsored.
Hospitality and Culinary Arts
Hotels and restaurants sponsor experienced chefs, kitchen managers, and hospitality supervisors.
Salary Requirements for Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship
To qualify, applicants must meet minimum salary thresholds. The required salary depends on:
- The occupation code
- Whether the role is on the shortage occupation list
- The applicant’s age and experience
Generally, the salary must meet the government’s minimum threshold or the “going rate” for that occupation—whichever is higher.
Employers must also pay sponsored workers fairly compared to UK employees in similar roles.
How the Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship Process Works
Step 1: Secure a Sponsored Job Offer
The first and most important step is obtaining a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor foreign workers.
Step 2: Employer Issues Certificate of Sponsorship
Once selected, the employer assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which includes details about your role, salary, and employment terms.
Step 3: Submit Your Visa Application
You apply online for the Skilled Worker visa, providing:
- Passport and identification documents
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Proof of English proficiency
- Financial evidence (if required)
Step 4: Biometric Appointment
You attend a visa application centre for fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 5: Visa Decision
After approval, you can travel to the UK and begin employment.
Benefits of Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship
Legal Work Authorization
You gain lawful permission to work in the UK under regulated employment conditions.
Family Sponsorship
Eligible dependents can join you in the UK.
Access to Public Services
Sponsored workers may access healthcare and certain public benefits, depending on visa terms.
Career Growth
Working in the UK strengthens your global career profile.
Pathway to Settlement
After five years under the Skilled Worker route, many applicants qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Challenges of Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship
Employer Dependency
Your visa is tied to your sponsoring employer. Changing jobs requires a new sponsorship process.
Salary Thresholds
Some qualified candidates may not meet required salary levels.
Processing Time
Visa processing can take several weeks depending on location and case complexity.
Competition
Sponsorship opportunities attract global applicants, increasing competition.
How to Find Genuine Tier 2 Sponsorship Jobs
- Search for employers listed as licensed sponsors on official UK government databases.
- Use reputable job portals that filter by visa sponsorship availability.
- Network with UK recruiters and hiring managers.
- Tailor your CV to UK formatting standards.
- Avoid recruiters demanding large upfront payments.
Always confirm that the employer holds a valid sponsorship licence before proceeding.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Sponsored
- Target occupations facing skill shortages.
- Upgrade qualifications and certifications recognized in the UK.
- Strengthen English language skills.
- Be flexible about location within the UK.
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews, focusing on skills that address local workforce gaps.
Employers sponsor candidates who demonstrate long-term commitment and immediate value.
Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship and Permanent Residency
Many professionals use Tier 2 sponsorship as a stepping stone toward permanent settlement. After five continuous years under the Skilled Worker route, applicants may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, provided they meet salary and residency requirements.
Settlement allows:
- Freedom to work without sponsorship
- Access to broader public benefits
- Eligibility for British citizenship (subject to additional criteria)
Why Tier 2 Sponsorship Remains in High Demand
Despite regulatory updates, employer sponsorship continues to be one of the strongest immigration pathways to the UK. With labour shortages in healthcare, technology, engineering, and education, international professionals remain essential to sustaining economic growth.
For ambitious individuals seeking stability, career advancement, and international exposure, Tier 2 visa sponsorship offers a structured and reliable route into the UK job market.
FAQs
Is Tier 2 visa sponsorship still available?
Yes. While the Tier 2 (General) visa has been replaced, sponsorship continues under the Skilled Worker visa system.
How do I know if an employer can sponsor me?
Check whether the employer is listed as a licensed sponsor on the UK government’s official register.
Can I switch employers on a sponsored visa?
Yes, but your new employer must issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship, and you must apply to update your visa.
Does Tier 2 sponsorship lead to permanent residency?
Yes. After five years of continuous lawful residence under the Skilled Worker route, you may apply for settlement.
How long does the sponsorship process take?
Processing times vary but typically range from three to eight weeks, depending on application complexity and location.