Check a Sponsor Licence Number - 2025 Guide

What is a Sponsor Licence Number

A Sponsor Licence Number is a unique identifier issued to UK organisations after you have successfully applied for a sponsor licence and are authorised to sponsor foreign workers. Whether you're a job seeker, employer, or recruitment professional, you may need to verify a Sponsor Licence Number to ensure compliance with UK immigration regulations.

How to Get a Sponsor Licence Number

Before obtaining a Sponsor Licence Number, your organisation must apply for a sponsor licence through the UK Home Office. Here’s a summary of the process:

• Check Eligibility – Ensure your business is legally operating in the UK and capable of fulfilling sponsorship duties.
• Gather Documentation – Prepare and submit required documents, such as business registration details and proof of compliance with immigration laws.
• Complete the Online Application – Apply via the Home Office’s official portal and pay the relevant fee.
• Pass Home Office Checks – The Home Office may conduct compliance visits to verify your organisation’s ability to meet sponsorship responsibilities.
• Receive a Decision – If approved, your business will be assigned a Sponsor Licence Number.

Holding a sponsor licence also comes with compliance responsibilities, such as monitoring sponsored employees, updating the SMS, and reporting any violations.

Finding Your Sponsor Licence Number

Your license number is a crucial identifier for your organisation’s capability to sponsor workers. You can find it in three places:

Via the Sponsor Management System

• Log into your SMS account, where your licence number is clearly displayed.
• This is the most reliable way to check your number.

In Official UKVI Documents

• Check your original licence approval letter from the Home Office.
• Look for it in other official Home Office communications.

On a Certificate of Sponsorship

• Your licence number appears on every CoS you issue.
• Workers can see it on their CoS documentation.

SLN vs CoS Numbers: What's the Difference?

The UK Home Office issues the Sponsor Licence Number (SLN) and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) numbers, which serve different purposes.

The SLN is a permanent identifier assigned to the sponsoring employer, confirming that an organisation is authorised to sponsor migrant workers. In contrast, a CoS number is issued to an individual worker, allowing you to apply for a visa under a sponsored work route. Each CoS number is unique and specific to a single sponsorship instance.

How to Check an Organisation’s Sponsor Licence Number

Prospective workers cannot directly check an organisation’s sponsor licence number. However, you can search the online register of licensed sponsors on GOV.UK. This public register lists all organisations approved to sponsor migrant workers in the UK. It also provides the current sponsorship rating, indicating compliance with sponsorship duties. This transparency helps potential employees and partners make informed decisions about working with a company.

The register includes:

• The organisation’s name and location
• The type of workers they are licensed to sponsor
• Categories under the Worker and Temporary Worker routes, such as:
  • Skilled Worker visa
  • T2 Minister of Religion
  • Senior or Specialist Worker (under the Global Business Mobility route)

If an organisation is not on the register, it is not currently approved to sponsor migrant workers.

Navigating the Online Register

The official register of licensed sponsors is available on the Home Office website, where users can download an Excel version of the list, which is updated daily. The register provides insights into the types of visas each sponsor is authorised to issue, including the skilled worker visa, temporary worker immigration routes, and other categories for skilled workers. This information helps employees understand their immigration status and the types of jobs they can apply for.

QC Immigration has also developed a live dashboard with a user-friendly search feature. This tool makes it easier to find licensed sponsors, view a detailed overview of each organisation, and access direct links to their website and social media channels.

Get UK Sponsor Licence Support

A sponsor licence is essential for UK businesses looking to legally employ non-UK nationals, enabling access to a diverse, skilled workforce. However, obtaining and maintaining a licence comes with strict requirements that can be challenging to navigate. Whether you need help with the application process or ongoing compliance, QC Immigration offers expert guidance to ensure your organisation remains compliant and competitive.

Sponsor Licence Applications

Applying for a sponsor licence can be complex, especially when balancing other business responsibilities. If you're unsure where to start or feeling overwhelmed by the process, QC Immigration can provide step-by-step support. From assessing eligibility to preparing your application and ensuring a smooth submission, we help you confidently secure your licence.

Sponsor Licence Compliance

Once approved, maintaining compliance is just as crucial as obtaining the licence. Failure to meet sponsorship duties can lead to serious consequences, including licence suspension, revocation, penalties and even the cancellation of sponsored workers' visas. QC Immigration assists organisations in staying compliant by ensuring proper record-keeping, timely reporting of employment changes, and effective use of the Sponsorship Management System. Our support helps protect your licence, prevent penalties, and maintain your ability to sponsor top global talent.