In order to prevent delays when the UK’s involvement in EU freedom of movement ends in January 2021, the Home Office has given employers with sponsor licences that are due for expiration more time to renew them.
Normally, UK sponsors have no more than 90 days before the licences expire to renew them. However, as thousands of licences are due to expire at the end of the year – whilst EU citizens simultaneously become subject to the same immigration requirements as other nations’ citizens – the Home Office is taking steps to avoid a backlog. Sponsors have been contacted by the Home Office and urged to consider the scope of the sponsor licence they will need under the new points-based immigration system.
Licences will automatically be extended while the Home Office considers the renewal application, although this will become void if the full fee is not paid. As a result, sponsors should apply early so if the application is rejected, it can be resubmitted before the end date.
The Home Office says that renewal applications will be processed within ten working days. This can take longer if more information is required. If an application is approved, the sponsor will receive a confirmation via the Sponsor Management System (SMS) under the heading ‘Applications and renewals tracking’.
Now the Home Office has provided details of the points-based immigration system, sponsors can decide whether or not to apply for additional licences so EEA citizens can be sponsored too. A key point to think about is if an existing intra-company transfer licence needs to be updated to allow EEA staff members to be transferred, or whether a new licence will be needed. Sponsors should also consider if Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) allocations need to be increased.
Scarsdale Solicitors – Manchester, Rochdale and Oldham
If you need advice on this matter or any other immigration issue, call the team at Scarsdale Solicitors Oldham, Scarsdale Solicitors Manchester and Scarsdale Solicitors Rochdale. If you require the assistance of Manchester Immigration solicitors, Rochdale immigration solicitors and Oldham immigration solicitors, call us today on 0161 660 6050.
