UK-based sponsors (employers) are required to pay an Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) when assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship to someone applying for a Skilled Worker or Senior or Specialist Worker visa. This charge applies to these types of UK work visa applications when the applicant is applying from outside the UK for a visa duration of six months or more, or from inside the UK for any length of time. If the worker’s visa application is refused or withdrawn, or if the visa is approved but the applicant decides not to join, the sponsoring employer will receive a full refund of any ISC fees paid.
Are there exemptions to when it’s required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge?
Certain exemptions exist based on occupational codes or when the visa holder’s first Certificate of Sponsorship was assigned. At Newland Chase, we can provide full guidance on whether exemptions exist for each application. Employers are not required to pay ISC for their workers’ dependents.
How much does the Immigration Skills Charge cost?
The charge is based on 1) the size of the sponsoring organization and 2) how long the work visa application is being applied for—the duration between the start and end dates on the Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Small or charitable sponsors: First 12 months is £364. Each additional six months is £182.
- Medium or large sponsors: First 12 months is £1,000. Each additional six months is £500.
These fees are subject to change by the UK Government at short notice. Newland Chase will always quote the current fees as part of the application process.
This news alert is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For case-specific guidance or further information, please contact Newland Chase directly.
