Sponsor Compliance & Audits

Holding a sponsor licence comes with ongoing legal obligations. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) expects sponsors to actively manage their duties throughout the entire period of a worker’s visa — not just at the point of application.

Core sponsor duties include keeping accurate and up-to-date records for all sponsored workers, conducting right to work checks before and during employment, reporting any significant changes — such as a sponsored employee leaving, changing role, or being absent for more than ten consecutive working days — and cooperating fully with Home Office compliance visits.

UKVI carries out unannounced compliance visits to check that licence holders are meeting their duties. These visits can happen at any time, and inspectors may request access to employment records, contracts, payslips, and HR policies.

Preparing for an audit involves ensuring your HR and record-keeping systems are robust, that all sponsored workers are properly documented, and that your assigned key personnel — typically your Authorising Officer and Key Contact — are trained and aware of their responsibilities.

Many businesses discover gaps in their compliance only when an audit arrives. Proactive legal support can help you identify and address weaknesses before the Home Office does.

At Terence Ray Solicitors, we conduct sponsor compliance health checks for businesses of all sizes, assist with audit preparation, and advise on best practice throughout the licence period.

Call 020 3367 1430 or email info@trsolicitors.co.uk.