UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has announced significant changes under the forthcoming Fair Work Agency legislation to ensure stricter compliance with the Skilled Worker immigration route. These changes, expected to take effect before the end of 2024, will impact employers using this route and introduce stricter penalties for non-compliance.
Here’s what you need to know about the new compliance rules and how they might affect your business.
Key changes for sponsors
1. Employers to cover all sponsor licence costs
Under the new rules, employers will now be responsible for covering the full cost of the sponsor licence process. This includes:
- The licence fee
- Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Associated administration fees (specific details on what constitutes “administration fees” are yet to be confirmed).
Previously, employers were only required to pay the Immigration Skills Surcharge, but the extended requirements mean higher costs for businesses sponsoring Skilled Worker visas.
2. Extended Action Plan for non-compliance
Sponsors found breaching existing Skilled Worker immigration rules will now face a 12-month Action Plan, increased from the current 3-month period. This extension aims to give non-compliant sponsors more time to address and resolve any issues while maintaining a stricter oversight period.
3. Increased cooling-off period for licence revocation
For sponsors who lose their licences due to system abuse, a longer cooling-off period will be introduced before they can reapply. The exact length of this cooling-off period has not yet been confirmed but is expected to be a key deterrent for repeated breaches.
Why these changes matter
These new measures underline the importance of compliance for employers using the Skilled Worker route. With higher costs and extended consequences for non-compliance, businesses must ensure they fully understand their responsibilities under UK immigration law.
What you should do
If your business relies on the Skilled Worker immigration route, now is the time to act.
- Review your current practices: Ensure your processes align with existing and upcoming compliance requirements.
- Plan for additional costs: Budget for the full sponsor licence process, including the new administrative cost coverage.
- Stay updated: Monitor announcements from UKVI for updates on the cooling-off period and administration fee details.
- Seek expert advice: Compliance can be complex, and professional guidance can help ensure you meet all requirements and avoid penalties.
How VisaLogic can help
Navigating these changes can be challenging, but VisaLogic is here to help. Our team of experts provides tailored advice and support for businesses navigating UK immigration rules.
- Need guidance on meeting compliance requirements?
- Unsure about how the new costs will impact your business?
We’ve got you covered. Contact VisaLogic today at 0845 646 1456 for expert advice and support.
FAQs
What are the new sponsor costs?
Employers must now cover the sponsor licence fee, Certificates of Sponsorship, and additional administrative fees (details pending confirmation), in addition to the Immigration Skills Surcharge.
When do these changes take effect?
The new rules are expected to come into effect before the end of 2024.
What happens if a sponsor breaches the rules?
Non-compliant sponsors will face a 12-month Action Plan and may be subject to an extended cooling-off period if their licence is revoked.
How can VisaLogic assist with compliance?
VisaLogic offers expert advice to help businesses understand and comply with UKVI regulations. Contact us at 0845 646 1456 for assistance.