Has Obtaining a Sponsor Licence for Restaurants Become Harder in 2025?

For restaurant businesses operating in the UK, bringing in skilled personnel from abroad has become increasingly common in recent years. However, with new regulations coming into effect in 2025, the Sponsor Licence application process has become one that requires more careful planning.

So, should we really describe this process as having “become harder,” or does it simply need to be conducted in a “more systematic and informed” manner?

What Does the New Salary Threshold Mean?

As of 2025, the minimum salary threshold for candidates sponsored under the Skilled Worker visa has been significantly updated:

• Minimum annual salary: £38,700
• Hourly equivalent: £15.88

These figures apply to positions such as chefs, supervisors, and managers in restaurants.

While some sectors may have lower thresholds, most restaurant positions must now meet this range.

This situation requires more professional planning — with the right job description, appropriate scope of duties, and salary alignment, the process can be successfully managed.

Compliance Requirements Have Been Clarified

The Home Office has more clearly defined the responsibilities that businesses must fulfill as sponsors. This has made the process not more complicated but rather more transparent and predictable.

Some key points restaurants need to consider:

• Operating legally and actively in commercial activities
• Demonstrating a genuine need for personnel
• Correctly using the SMS (Sponsor Management System)
• Providing documented evidence of the duties and salary details of hired individuals
• Maintaining organized and traceable HR systems
• Clearly defining key personnel roles (Authorising Officer, Level 1 User)

Personal Services Prohibited

As of 2025, sponsor licences can no longer be used for personal services (e.g., private drivers, nannies).

Restaurants can only sponsor genuine and commercial positions. Applications are expected to clearly document these distinctions.

If you want to bring in personnel under the Skilled Worker visa but don’t know where to start, let’s plan together.

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