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A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document issued by a UK employer that holds a sponsor licence. It is required for most people applying for a Skilled Worker or other sponsored work visa in the UK.

Despite the name, it is not a physical certificate. Instead, it is a unique reference number that links to information about the job and the worker in the Home Office system. The CoS confirms that:

• The employer is licensed to sponsor overseas workers

• The job meets the required skill level

• The salary meets the relevant threshold

• The role is genuine and complies with UK immigration rules

There are two main types of CoS:

• Defined CoS – for applicants applying from outside the UK

• Undefined CoS – for certain applicants applying from within the UK

Once a CoS is assigned, the applicant can use the reference number to submit their visa application. Without a valid Certificate of Sponsorship, it is not possible to apply for most sponsored UK work visas.

⚠️ Please remember that employers DO NOT sell a COS, nor can a COS be purchased. If anyone asks for a fee to issue a COS, it is a scam. Job applicants must be aware of this.

✅ A COS will be provided by a licensed sponsor once the candidate receives a job offer. You can apply for verified jobs with visa sponsorship from legitimate employers on UK Visa Jobs.

In short, a CoS is the formal confirmation from a licensed UK employer that they are sponsoring a worker for a specific role under the UK immigration system.