If you would like to become a Tier 2 Visa Sponsor, allowing you to sponsor nurses from outside the EEA then the process can seem daunting. However, it doesn’t have to be. We’ve put together the key information you need to know below, and also where to go for more help.

Can you give me a quick overview of the process?

Yes – watch this two minute YouTube overview video highlighting the key steps of the sponsor application process (please note this is not a video produced by MHR).

How much will it cost me to become a sponsor?

If you are a small or charitable organisation it will cost £536. If you’re a medium or large organisation it will cost you £1476. You can find Companies House guidelines on who is classed as a small employer.

How many nurses can I sponsor?

There is no limit, but you must be able to justify your need for them.

How do I apply to be a sponsor?

You can complete an online form.

However please note – you will only have five days to submit your documentation after you have submitted your application so please ensure you have these documents ready before you make your application.

How long does the process take?

It usually takes about 2-3 months from start to finish.

What documents do I need?

You must have at least four supporting documents for your application. You can look up the relevant documents in Appendix A on the UKVI website. These documents need to be originals or certified copies.

What is the Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) and how does it apply to me?

When you assign a Restricted Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to a nurse, you must be able to show that you have not been able to recruit this nurse within the UK. To prove this you must have evidence to demonstrate that you have advertised the vacancy for a minimum of 28 days in the six months prior to the CoS being assigned, and did not receive any suitable applicants.

I have questions – where can I go for help?

There is a comprehensive information pack online documenting the whole process. Please note that this is a very large document (200+ pages) so we recommend you use the contents page to help direct you to the relevant part.

You can also ring the UKVI sponsorship helpline: 03001234699 (option 3).

My Healthcare Recruit supports UK healthcare employers in the public, private, and care sector to find international nurses who are a great fit for their organization, by using market-leading video interviewing tools to connect them to our database of qualified candidates. Our innovative approach makes international candidates easier to find and more cost-effective to source than ever before. Find out more at www.myhealthcarerecruit.com