Webinar: The “Self-Sponsorship” route for overseas businesses establishing a UK presence

With the closure of the Tier 1 Entrepreneur and Investor routes, international business owners faced significant barriers to relocating to the UK to start or grow their companies. In 2020, the UK government removed the previous 10% ownership restriction from the Tier 2 (General) framework, paving the way for a strategy commonly referred to as the “Self-Sponsorship UK Visa.” This approach allows entrepreneurs to establish, acquire or, if they already own one, utilise an existing UK business to sponsor their own Skilled Worker visa. Though often overlooked, this option provides a practical means for business owners to legally enter, operate and settle in the UK while managing their own company.

Frequently misunderstood or underutilised, this Self-Sponsorship route may become an essential tool for navigating the UK’s points-based immigration system. However in recent months, the government has adopted a somewhat hostile attitude toward this option, increasing scrutiny and casting uncertainty over its future.

This webinar explores the intricacies of the “Self-Sponsorship UK Visa” within the Skilled Worker framework. We will equip you with the necessary knowledge to tackle these emerging challenges and discuss:

• legal sources and main features
• potential candidates
• how to navigate the complexities of the Self-Sponsorship route
• what are the main issues and risks related to self-sponsorship?
• key strategies and practical tips for ensuring compliance with Home Office guidelines and avoiding common mistakes

You’ll gain practical insights into assessing client eligibility, interpreting Home Office guidance, preparing strong applications, and navigating common pitfalls, including sponsor licence compliance and the ‘genuineness’ requirement.

Join us for this practitioner-focused training session to enhance your expertise and acquire practical, up-to-date knowledge on the Self-Sponsorship route.

Presenter

Paolo Barbato. Paolo is a partner and the Head of Immigration at Child & Child, a prestigious West End law firm with over 150 years of history. He specialises in business and corporate immigration, as well as complex private immigration and nationality law matters.

Audience

Level: intermediate

This webinar is designed for lawyers, advisers and caseworkers who are already familiar with the Skilled Worker route and want to enhance their understanding of Self-Sponsorship as a strategic option for business clients. It is ideal for professionals involved in business immigration or those looking to expand their practice in this area.

Booking

The ticket cost is £80 + VAT for members and £90 + VAT for non-members. Members, to secure your discount, please log in to your Free Movement account before booking.

We are running an early bird discount on tickets until 23:59 on Wednesday 9th March 2025. Use code “SELFSPONSORSHIP180325” for 20% off.

Important notes

• A recording of the webinar is NOT included in the ticket price.
• After the webinar, you will be emailed a copy of any presentation slides.
• If you would like a certificate of attendance for your continuing professional development record after the webinar has finished, please email editor@freemovement.org.uk.
• Refund policy: We understand that circumstances can change. Cancellation and refund is possible with no questions asked up to 7 days before the webinar is due to begin. Please contact editor@freemovement.org.uk.