Statistics released by the Home Office in June 2025 show that nearly 50% of all sponsor licence applications now face rejection. Skilled Worker visa grants for overseas workers have also dropped by over one-third over the same period, with particularly steep falls in vital sectors such as social care, hospitality, tech, IT and agriculture.
Government policies, such as higher skill thresholds, higher salary requirements and increased compliance scrutiny are having a clear impact on the ability of businesses to sponsor non-UK nationals, and we do not expect that employer sponsorship is set to get any easier. When combined with the rising costs and compliance obligations associated with sponsorship, employers and individuals are increasingly looking to explore alternative immigration options that might be available to them.
This webinar will provide an essential overview on:
- Our predictions for the future of immigration policy in the UK
- The current immigration landscape
- Global Talent Visas: for those who can demonstrate exceptional talent or promise in their fields
- The Innovator Route: to engage entrepreneurial talent
- Family / Dependant Visas: supporting family members
- Government Authorised Exchange: for short term work experience and internship programmes
- The Graduate and High Potential Individual visa routes: for international graduates looking to work in the UK
- The Youth Mobility Scheme: to help businesses access young international talent
- An overview of the key requirement of Continuous Residence for future Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applications
This article first appeared on https://www.wardhadaway.com/insights/events/webinar-unlocking-alternative-immigration-routes-beyond-sponsorship/
