The Ultimate Guide to UK Hospitality Visa Sponsorship (2025)

For International Talent & UK Employers Navigating the New Immigration Landscape

The UK hospitality sector, a cornerstone of the nation's economy, is experiencing a resurgence post-pandemic. However, with evolving immigration policies, both international professionals seeking opportunities and UK employers aiming to hire global talent face new challenges. This guide offers a detailed overview of the current visa sponsorship landscape, ensuring you're well-informed and prepared.

For International Hospitality Professionals

1. Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker visa is the primary route for non-UK nationals to work in the UK hospitality sector. 

Key requirements include:

• Job Offer: A confirmed offer from a UK employer holding a valid sponsor licence.

• Salary Threshold: As of April 2025, the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas has been raised to £38,700 per year, unless the job is on the Immigration Salary List, which allows for a lower threshold of £30,960 per year. The Immigration Salary List is available here.

• English Proficiency: Proof of English language skills, usually via an approved test.

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): An electronic document issued by your employer detailing your role and salary.

  
  

Roles commonly sponsored include:

• Hotel and accommodation managers

• Restaurant and catering managers

• Chefs and head chefs

• Event and conference organizers

• Hotel Analysts, Asset Managers, and Investment professionals

Note: Entry-level positions like waitstaff or housekeeping are less likely to qualify under the Skilled Worker visa due to skill and salary thresholds.

2. Alternative Visa Routes

For those not meeting Skilled Worker criteria, consider:

• Youth Mobility Scheme: Open to individuals aged 18-30 (up to 35 for some countries), allowing work in the UK for up to 2 years without sponsorship.

• Graduate Visa: For international students completing a UK degree, permitting work for 2 years post-graduation.

Visa Sponsorship Considerations For UK Hospitality Employers

1. Obtaining a Sponsor Licence

To hire international talent, your business must secure a sponsor licence. Steps include:

• Eligibility Check: Ensure your business is legitimate and has appropriate HR systems.

• Application: Submit an online application and pay the relevant fee (£574 for small businesses; £1,579 for large businesses).

• Compliance: Be prepared for potential site visits and ongoing compliance checks.

Once approved, you'll receive a licence rating and can issue CoS to prospective employees.

2. Financial Considerations

Beyond the licence fee, consider:

• Certificate of Sponsorship: £525 per sponsored worker or £55 per temporary worker.

• Immigration Skills Charge: £364 per year for small businesses; £1,000 for large businesses.

Note: These fees are in addition to recruitment and onboarding costs.

3. Compliance and Responsibilities

As a sponsor, you're obligated to:

• Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of sponsored employees.

• Report Changes: Inform UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) of significant changes, such as job role alterations or early terminations.

• Ensure Genuine Employment: Roles must meet skill and salary thresholds and be genuine vacancies.

  
  

Recent Policy Changes Impacting Hospitality

The UK government has introduced several immigration reforms:

• Settlement Period Extension: Migrants now need to reside in the UK for 10 years before applying for indefinite leave to remain, unless they make significant contributions to the economy or society. 

• Care Worker Visa Route Abolished: Overseas recruitment for care home roles has been banned, impacting sectors reliant on international staff. 

• Salary Threshold Adjustments: Increases in salary thresholds may affect the eligibility of certain hospitality roles for sponsorship. 

These changes aim to reduce net migration but have raised concerns about exacerbating labor shortages in sectors like hospitality.

Navigating the Future

For international professionals, staying informed about visa requirements and seeking roles with licensed sponsors is crucial. Employers must adapt to policy changes, ensuring compliance while addressing staffing needs.

By understanding the evolving landscape and leveraging available resources, both candidates and employers can navigate the complexities of UK hospitality visa sponsorship in 2025 and beyond.

How XpertHost Supports You

At XpertHost, we specialize in connecting hospitality professionals with forward thinking companies. Our services include:

• Candidate Support: Guidance on visa applications, interview preparation, coaching, and job matching.

• Employer Assistance: Support in obtaining sponsor licences, and talent acquisition strategies.

  
  

Partner with XpertHost to find and retain the best available talent in hospitality and navigate the UK's hospitality visa landscape confidently.