If you’re a UK employer looking to hire skilled workers from overseas, ensuring compliance with UK immigration regulations is crucial. As a sponsor under the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa program, you’ll be responsible for maintaining the integrity of your sponsorship duties and fulfilling several legal obligations. Here are the key steps to ensure you’re in compliance with the requirements.
1. Understanding the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is the cornerstone of the UK Skilled Worker Visa application process. As a sponsor, you must issue a CoS to each worker you wish to hire. This document confirms your support for the worker’s visa application and ensures they are authorized to work for you in the UK. It’s essential to understand the different types of CoS available and how to assign them properly. A failure to issue or assign a valid CoS can lead to penalties or a suspension of your sponsorship license.
2. Maintaining Accurate Records
As a sponsor, you must keep accurate and up-to-date records for each worker. This includes their employment details, such as job title, salary, and the duration of their contract. Additionally, you must monitor the immigration status of your employees and report any significant changes, like if a worker stops reporting to work or their contact details change. Keeping meticulous records will help demonstrate that your organization is compliant with immigration laws.
3. Meeting Salary Requirements
One of the key requirements for a UK Skilled Worker Visa is the salary threshold. The position you’re offering must meet the minimum salary set by the Home Office, typically £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, unless the role is exempt or the applicant is applying under a shortage occupation list. Regularly reviewing the salaries of your sponsored workers ensures you meet these requirements and avoid any potential penalties.
4. Reporting Responsibilities
Sponsors must report certain events to the Home Office, including if a worker fails to attend work or their visa status changes. Additionally, if a worker leaves your employment, you must inform the Home Office within 10 days. Non-compliance with reporting duties could risk your sponsorship license.
5. Sponsoring Workers under Other Visas
Aside from the Skilled Worker Visa, the UK also offers other routes like the Start-Up Visa, which may suit entrepreneurs or those seeking to start a business in the UK. Familiarizing yourself with the criteria for each visa type and understanding your role as a sponsor for these categories ensures that you can legally support workers on the appropriate visa.
By adhering to these compliance measures, you can maintain your sponsor license and contribute to the success of your workforce. For further assistance and detailed guidance on sponsorship responsibilities, feel free to visit our Skilled Worker Visas page and learn more about the process.
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