Certificate of Sponsorship Processing Time – A Comprehensive Guide for Employers

The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a critical document in the UK immigration process, enabling UK employers to hire overseas workers. However, understanding the processing time for a CoS can significantly impact business operations and the recruitment process. This guide explores everything employers and workers need to know about the CoS processing time, factors influencing it, and how to ensure a smooth application process.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

A Certificate of Sponsorship is an electronic record issued by the UK Home Office to an employer who wishes to sponsor a foreign worker. It is a fundamental requirement for any visa application under the UK’s sponsored visa routes, such as the skilled worker visa or the health and care worker visa.

There are two types of CoS: Defined and Undefined. A Defined CoS is for workers applying from outside the UK, while an Undefined CoS is for those already in the UK, such as individuals on a visa looking to switch sponsors. Understanding the difference between these two is crucial as it may affect your processing timeline.

How Long Does it Take to Process a Certificate of Sponsorship?

The standard processing time for a CoS varies depending on whether the employer is new or an established sponsor. For new employers applying for a sponsor licence, the entire process, including obtaining a licence and issuing a CoS, can take several weeks or months. Employers with an existing licence usually experience faster processing times.

For Defined CoS, the Home Office typically provides a decision within 1 working day. However, it can take 10 to 15 working days or longer if further information is requested by the Home Office. For Undefined CoS, the time frame can vary and may take up to five to ten working days. Employers looking to expedite the process can opt for the Sponsor Licence Priority Service for faster handling.

For more on sponsor licence processing, read our article on how long does a sponsor licence take.

Factors Affecting Certificate of Sponsorship Processing Time

Several factors can influence how long it takes for a CoS to be issued:

1. Type of Certificate: Whether you're applying for a Defined or Undefined CoS can affect the timeline.
2. Completeness of Documentation: Incomplete or inaccurate information can delay the process. Make sure you have all the documents required for a Certificate of Sponsorship ready before applying.
3. Time of Year: High-traffic periods, such as the end of the fiscal year, can slow down processing times.
4. Home Office Scrutiny: The Home Office may scrutinize your sponsor management system (SMS) activity, which could add extra time to the process. It's essential to ensure your sponsor management system is compliant and up-to-date.
5. Priority Processing: Employers can opt for priority services, where available, to expedite the process.

Employers should also ensure they’re aware of their sponsor licence duties to avoid unnecessary delays due to compliance issues.

Employer Responsibilities During the CoS Processing Time

As an employer, your responsibility is to ensure that all documents and information submitted to the Home Office are accurate and up to date. Failing to meet compliance standards can lead to delays or, in extreme cases, sponsor licence revocation.

Employers must also regularly check their SMS accounts and provide timely responses to any Home Office requests for additional information. Ensuring that you have a designated SMS Level 1 user who is well-versed in the process can help avoid delays.

How to Track Your Certificate of Sponsorship Application

Once you've applied for a CoS, you can track its progress through the UK Visas and Immigration's sponsor management system. Employers should regularly check their sponsor licence number and SMS portal for any updates on the CoS application status.

Additionally, if you've applied for an expedited process through the Sponsor Licence Priority Service, ensure you follow up with the Home Office if no response is received within the promised time frame.

What to Do If Your CoS Application is Delayed

If your CoS application is delayed beyond the expected timeframe, there are a few steps you can take:

• Contact the Home Office: Reach out to the Home Office for an update on your application. Be sure to have your sponsor licence number and CoS reference number handy.
• Check for Missing Information: Ensure there are no requests from the Home Office for additional documentation that you may have missed.
• Review Your Compliance: Double-check that your sponsor licence duties are fully met to avoid potential delays or penalties.

If delays persist, it may also be helpful to consult immigration experts or legal advisors who specialize in sponsor licence applications and CoS issuance.

FAQs on Certificate of Sponsorship Processing Time

• How long does a Certificate of Sponsorship take to process for a new employer?
  New employers applying for a sponsor licence may face longer processing times, typically ranging from 4 to 8 weeks.
• Can I expedite my CoS processing?
  Yes, you can use the Sponsor Licence Priority Service for faster CoS issuance.
• What happens if my CoS application is rejected?
  In case of rejection, you can appeal the decision or rectify the issues and reapply. Employers facing a rejected application should consult experts to avoid delays in the future.
• How does the CoS processing time affect the visa application process?
  The CoS is required before a worker can apply for their visa. Delays in processing your CoS can result in longer wait times for the visa application, impacting the worker's start date.

Conclusion

Understanding the processing time for a Certificate of Sponsorship is critical for employers aiming to hire foreign talent. By staying compliant, submitting complete applications, and leveraging the available priority services, businesses can minimize delays. If you have further questions or need assistance with your CoS application, feel free to get in touch.

Employers looking to estimate costs associated with the visa process can also explore our visa fees calculator to understand government fees and other expenses.