Understanding which type of Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) allocation request your company needs depends on your CoS year expiry date. You can check this easily in Borderless.
📅 Annual Reallocation Request
An Annual CoS Allocation is the total number of CoS you’re allowed to issue over a 12-month period - called your CoS year.
If you don’t have an annual allocation set up, you’ll need to submit individual CoS requests every time you sponsor someone, which can take extra time.
To set up an Annual Allocation on Borderless, simply select “Yes” when asked “Is this an annual allocation request?” during your Undefined CoS request.
Please note:
Can be made only within 3 months before your CoS year expires.
Helps companies plan ahead for recruitment needs in the next year.
Essentially asks: “How many CoS do we think we’ll need for the next full year?”
🔍 Where to Check Your CoS Year Expiry Date
Go to the Certificates of Sponsorship tab in Borderless and click "View Undefined" under the Undefined section. This will show your CoS year expiry date.
📌 Important: At the end of your CoS year, any unused CoS will expire - they cannot roll over to the next year.
⚡ In-Year Allocation Request
If you run out of your annual CoS before the year ends, you can request an In-Year CoS Allocation to get more certificates.
These requests are reviewed case-by-case and require a strong justification.
Keep in mind your overall allocation might change if your organisation’s situation changes (e.g., downsizing).
In-Year CoS approvals usually expire 3 months after being issued, unless otherwise stated.
Please note:
Covers the period until your current CoS allocation expires.
Essentially asks: “How many additional CoS do we need to cover the rest of the current allocation year?”
Defined vs. Undefined CoS — What’s the Difference? 🌍
Defined CoS
For applicants applying from outside the UK (coming into the country).
Usually allocated to a specific individual.
Annual allocations do not apply here — you request these separately as needed.
Undefined CoS
For applicants already in the UK (switching sponsors or visa types).
Usually covered under your Annual or In-Year allocation requests.
💬 Need help or an update? - Open the Support tab at the bottom right of your screen to contact our team directly.