General information, not a personal recommendation
These pages explain published sponsor duties. They do not audit an organisation, approve a role or replace the current sponsor guidance.
Plain-English answer
What this means operationally
A sponsor licence does not replace the prescribed right-to-work check. The employer should use the correct check before work and repeat it where required.
Build the control
Core actions
- Identify the correct checking method
- Complete the check before employment
- Retain the prescribed evidence and date
- Schedule follow-up checks for time-limited permission
Compliance pressure points
Common risks
- Assuming the CoS is proof of right to work
- Incorrect online check
- No follow-up reminder
- Different standards applied by nationality
Detect
Managers and systems identify a worker or business event.
Verify
The sponsor team checks the facts and current guidance.
Record
Evidence and decisions are retained consistently.
Report
Required SMS action is taken within the applicable timeframe.
Primary source
Read the current sponsor guidance
Personal circumstances?
Verify a regulated professional →Know when a guide is no longer enough
Eligibility assessments, evidence reviews, application preparation and representation should be handled by a suitably regulated professional.