What changed for hospitality in July 2025
Since 22 July 2025, most new Skilled Worker jobs must be at degree level (RQF 6) and pay at least £41,700 a year, or the going rate for the job if higher. Many hospitality roles are below that level, including chefs, restaurant managers and hotel managers, so they can no longer be sponsored for new overseas recruits.
Which hospitality roles can still be sponsored?
Roles at degree level can still be sponsored if the salary rules are met. In hospitality businesses, these are usually head-office and senior roles, such as some finance, marketing, IT and senior management positions. We check each role against its occupation code and salary before you apply, so you don't pay for a licence you can't use.
Staff you already sponsor
Workers who were already sponsored before July 2025 may be able to extend their visas under transitional rules, in some cases only with the same employer. If you have sponsored chefs or managers, talk to us well before their visas expire so we can plan their extensions.
Other ways to recruit legally
Many people in the UK already have the right to work without sponsorship, such as people with settled status, Graduate visa holders, dependants of other visa holders and people on the Youth Mobility Scheme. Always check the right to work of every new employee before they start, and recheck time-limited permission before it expires.
Illegal working: the biggest risk for restaurants
Restaurants and takeaways are a regular focus of Home Office enforcement visits. Employing someone without the right to work can lead to a civil penalty of up to £60,000 per worker, and if you hold a sponsor licence, it can be suspended or revoked. Correct right to work checks for every member of staff are your protection.
Sponsor licence for restaurants help in Manchester
We're IAA-regulated and based in Manchester city centre, working with employers across the North West and the rest of the UK. We check which of your roles can be sponsored, prepare your sponsor licence application, and keep you compliant with our sponsor licence compliance service.
How we help
- Check your eligibility and confirm the right route at your consultation
- Give you a personalised document checklist
- Prepare and complete your application forms
- Review all evidence against the current rules before submission
- Keep you updated until you have a decision
Fees and timescales
Our fee is agreed before we start. See our fees. Government fees are paid separately, and are listed on GOV.UK.
Common questions
Can restaurants still sponsor chefs?
Not for new overseas recruits in most cases. Since July 2025, chef roles are below the degree-level skill threshold. Chefs already sponsored before then may be able to extend under transitional rules.
Is a sponsor licence still worth it for a restaurant?
It can be, if you have degree-level roles such as finance or senior management, or existing sponsored staff to keep. We check your roles before you apply.
What is the fine for employing an illegal worker?
Up to £60,000 per illegal worker, plus possible action against your sponsor licence.