UKVI is requiring all organisations that hold a sponsor licence to update the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) with the organisation’s company number and National Insurance Numbers (NINOs) for Key Personnel.
We previously wrote about the requirement for sponsors to provide a NINO for all Level 1 users and explained that UKVI intended to roll out a similar requirement for Authorising Officers (AO) and Key Contacts (KC).
UKVI has now confirmed, by way of a notification on the SMS dated 10 October 2023, that a NINO must be provided for AOs and KCs. This must be done when replacing or amending the AO or KC, when updating their details or otherwise at the ‘earliest convenience’.
Sponsors also need to make the same updates in relation to their Level 1 Users.
The same UKVI SMS notification also asks sponsors to add what it refers to as their ‘Companies House reference number’ (i.e. their company number). UKVI states that this should allow them to undertake effective checks and will also aid the migration of sponsors to the new sponsorship system.
We are recommending that sponsors access their SMS and make the above notifications over the next few weeks to ensure that all details are accurate on the SMS. Please contact your Carter Thomas advisor if you are a client of the firm and need assistance.
We do not yet know when UKVI is intending to roll out the new sponsorship system but this is a clear sign that they have started to lay the groundwork for the transition to it.
The Sponsor Guidance has not recently been updated so it is important to ensure that Level 1 Users are regularly logging into the SMS to keep up to date with any relevant notifications.
Business immigration services: How can we help
Our solicitors are experienced in all aspects of the UK’s sponsor system and frequently conduct onsite or remote sponsor compliance reviews for clients. If you require a review of your current systems and processes, or legal advice on a specific issue, we would be happy to help. Please contact us or use the enquiry form below.
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