Introduction
If you are applying for a UK work visa, you might be wondering how to check CoS status to ensure your application goes smoothly. The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a crucial document assigned by your employer that allows you to apply for a visa.
Knowing how to check CoS status will help you verify whether your CoS has been issued, used, or is still valid. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to check your CoS status and ensure everything is in order before submitting your visa application.
What Is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document issued by a UK employer (sponsor) to a foreign worker applying for a work visa. Each CoS has a unique reference number, which must be used during the visa application process.
There are two main types of CoS:
- Defined CoS – Issued to Skilled Worker visa applicants outside the UK.
- Undefined CoS – Issued to applicants already in the UK.
Each CoS is valid for three months from the date of issuance. If not used within this period, it expires and must be reissued by your employer.
Why Knowing How to Check CoS Status Is Important
Understanding how to check CoS status is essential because:
✔ It confirms whether your CoS has been issued
✔ It ensures your CoS is still valid before applying for a visa
✔ It helps avoid unnecessary delays or visa rejections
✔ It ensures you have the correct CoS type for your application
Now, let’s go through seven ways to check your CoS status easily.
7 Simple Ways to Check CoS Status
1. Contact Your Sponsor (Employer)
Your employer is responsible for assigning your CoS through the UK Sponsorship Management System (SMS). You can ask them to check your CoS status and confirm:
✅ Whether your CoS has been assigned
✅ If it is still active
✅ Whether it has been used in a visa application
If you haven’t received your CoS number, your employer should provide it.
2. Log in to the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)
The UKVI Sponsorship Management System (SMS) is where employers manage their sponsored workers. If your employer grants you access, you can check details like:
- Your CoS reference number
- The current status of your CoS
- Its expiry date
3. Check Your CoS Number
After your employer assigns your CoS, you should receive a 9-digit CoS reference number. If you have received this number, it means:
✔ Your CoS has been assigned and is valid
✔ You can use it in your visa application
If you haven’t received your CoS number, contact your employer to verify its issuance.
4. Review Your Visa Application Status
If you have already submitted your visa application, you can check whether your CoS has been used by:
- Logging into the UKVI visa application portal
- Checking your application status
- Looking for updates related to your CoS
If your visa has been approved, your CoS has been successfully used.
5. Contact UKVI (UK Visas & Immigration)
If you’re unsure about your CoS status, you can contact UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) to verify whether your CoS is valid and whether it has been used.
🔹 UKVI Contact Page: www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi
6. Check the CoS Expiry Date
A Certificate of Sponsorship is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. If it expires before you use it in your visa application, you will need to request a new CoS from your employer.
You can check the expiry date on your CoS document or ask your employer.
7. Confirm If Your CoS Is Defined or Undefined
- Defined CoS is issued for applicants outside the UK.
- Undefined CoS is for those already in the UK.
If your visa type does not match your CoS type, your application may be delayed or rejected. Always verify with your employer that you have the correct CoS.
Common CoS Statuses and What They Mean
Understanding the different CoS statuses is important for tracking your application. Here’s what each status means:
🔹 Assigned – Your employer has issued your CoS, and it is ready for use.
🔹 Used – Your CoS has been submitted with a visa application.
🔹 Expired – Your CoS was not used within 3 months and is no longer valid.
🔹 Withdrawn – Your employer has withdrawn the CoS, making it invalid.
If your CoS has expired or been withdrawn, your employer will need to issue a new one before you can apply for a visa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to get a CoS assigned?
It usually takes 1-2 weeks for a UK employer to assign a CoS, but processing times may vary.
Q2: Can I check my CoS status myself?
You cannot check it directly unless your employer grants you access to the Sponsorship Management System (SMS). However, you can confirm your CoS details with your employer.
Q3: What happens if my CoS is rejected?
If your CoS is rejected, your employer will need to issue a new one or correct any errors before you reapply.
Q4: Can I use a CoS after it expires?
No, a CoS must be used within 3 months of being issued. If it expires, you need a new one.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to check CoS status is crucial for a smooth visa application process. The best way to verify your CoS is to contact your employer, check the UKVI portal, and ensure all details are correct.
If you’re experiencing delays, reach out to UKVI for assistance. Stay proactive and ensure your Certificate of Sponsorship is valid before applying for a UK work visa.
✅ Need help with your UK visa application? Contact UKVI or speak to your employer for guidance!
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