How UK Companies Can Sponsor a Tier 2 Visa for an UX/UI Designer Outside the Shortage Occupation List

Understanding the Visa Process and Eligibility Criteria

Employing a UX/UI designer through a Tier 2 visa in the UK, especially when the job is not on the Shortage Occupation List, requires a comprehensive understanding of the visa process and eligibility criteria. This article provides a detailed guide on how UK companies can navigate this process.

1. Ensure Eligibility

Job Offer: The company must have a confirmed job offer for the UX/UI designer position. This is a crucial starting point to ensure the recruitment process is on track.

Sponsorship License: The employer must hold a valid sponsorship license from the UK Home Office. If the company does not already have a license, they will need to apply for one. Acquiring a sponsorship license involves thorough documentation and demonstrating that the business is legitimate and capable of accepting a sponsored worker.

2. Job Requirements

Skill Level: The position must meet the minimum skill level requirement, typically equivalent to RQF Level 3, akin to A-levels. For an UX/UI designer, this skill level is generally adequate.

Salary Threshold: The job must meet the minimum salary requirements. As of August 2023, the general salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa is ￡26,200 per year. This threshold is likely to be the same for UX/UI designers.

3. Conduct a Labor Market Test if Applicable

When the job is not on the Shortage Occupation List, a Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) may be required. This involves advertising the job for a minimum of 28 days to prove that there are no suitable settled workers in the UK for the role. The advertisement should be placed on an appropriate platform and meet specific criteria to ensure its validity.

It is important to note that conducting a Labor Market Test may add several weeks to the overall process, so planning ahead is essential.

4. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once the job offer is confirmed and the labor market test is completed (if necessary), the employer can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the prospective employee. This document contains a unique reference number that is critical for the visa application process.

5. Application Process for the Candidate

The UX/UI designer must apply for the Skilled Worker visa using the CoS provided by the employer. They will need to provide the following documents:

Proof of English language proficiency A valid passport Other supporting materials such as educational qualifications or work experience

It is advisable to consult the official government UK Immigration Service guide for a detailed list of required documents and application procedures.

6. Compliance and Responsibilities

The employer has several compliance and responsibility obligations, including:

Kept records of the employee's contact details Routine reporting of employment status changes to the Home Office Ensuring the continued eligibility of the worker for the visa type

Failure to comply with these obligations may result in penalties or loss of sponsorship rights.

7. Consider Alternative Routes

If the Tier 2 Skilled Worker route is not feasible, the company could explore other visa options such as:

The Global Talent Visa for highly skilled individuals outside the EU/EEA The Innovator Visa for entrepreneurs

Evaluating these alternatives may provide a viable path to the UK for the UX/UI designer.

Conclusion

Sponsoring a UX/UI designer via a Tier 2 Skilled Worker visa is possible but requires careful adherence to UK immigration rules. Ensuring the job meets the skill and salary thresholds and conducting a labor market test if necessary are critical steps. Staying up-to-date with any changes in immigration policy is also essential, as regulations can evolve frequently.

By following these guidelines, UK companies can successfully sponsor an UX/UI designer for a valued and essential position within their organization.