Navigating the UK Immigration System for Game Studios

The UK game industry continues to flourish, with approximately 39.1 million Britons consuming video games, as reported by Newzoo's Global Games Market Report 2022. The industry is a significant economic driver, contributing £2.87 billion to the UK economy, and boasts a highly international workforce, with nearly 30% of employees holding non-British nationalities. The UK's immigration system has undergone significant changes, making it challenging to navigate. Before sponsoring work visas, it is essential to check if a candidate already has the right to work in the UK. Certain groups, such as British and Irish citizens, EEA and Swiss nationals, and individuals with indefinite leave to remain, have unrestricted or specific rights to work. Sponsorship is a licensing agreement between the Home Office and employers, requiring a sponsor license to sponsor work visa applications. To become a sponsor, a UK entity must demonstrate its genuineness, a genuine vacancy, robust HR and compliance processes, and key personnel responsible for maintaining the license. The process of obtaining a sponsor license typically takes three to five months. Once the license is granted, employers can sponsor Skilled Worker visa applications for candidates who meet specific criteria, including an offer of sponsorship, an A-level level skillset, English language proficiency, and a minimum salary requirement. The application process differs depending on whether the candidate is outside or inside the UK. Employers must comply with Home Office rules and maintain specific documents, including right to work checks, contact details, and employment records. Significant changes in circumstances, such as changes in ownership or employee transfers, must be reported to the UKVI within 20 working days. Alternative routes, such as graduate visas, High Potential Individual visas, and T5 internships, may be considered when sponsorship is not possible. The UK's immigration system is continually evolving, and understanding the Skilled Worker visa route can help game studios secure top talent, regardless of their immigration status.