Maintaining Your UK Sponsorship Licence: Compliance, Renewals, and Responsibilities

Maintaining Your UK Sponsorship Licence: Compliance, Renewals, and Responsibilities

Receiving your Sponsor Licence is only the beginning. To keep it active and maintain your A-rating, you must follow strict Home Office compliance rules.

1. Key Employer Responsibilities

  •  Report any employee changes (address, job title, termination) within 10 working days.
  •  Keep copies of employee right-to-work documents.
  •  Maintain updated records of contact details and attendance.

 

2. Sponsorship Management System (SMS) Usage

Your Level 1 and Level 2 Users must:

  •  Assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS)
  •  Update licence information
  •  Renew your licence before expiry

3. Home Office Audits and Visits

UKVI can conduct compliance audits anytime announced or unannounced. If issues are found, your licence can be downgraded to a B-rating or even revoked.

4. Renewal Process

A Sponsor Licence is valid for 4 years. Renew at least 1 month before expiry to avoid disruption in hiring or visa extensions.

5. Training and Awareness

Keep your HR and compliance team updated with immigration rule changes. Regular internal audits help prevent penalties and maintain smooth operations.

Final Thoughts

Holding a Sponsor Licence is both a privilege and a responsibility. Startitup Global offers complete compliance management including renewal reminders, HR audits, and CoS assistance so your business remains fully compliant and ready to hire globally.

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