Government urges Employers without a Sponsor Licence to Apply Sooner Rather than Later

Applying for a Sponsorship Licence

Following the end of the Brexit transition period on 31^st December 2020, businesses will need a Sponsor Licence to sponsor employees who would be new EU national entrants.

The Government has issued guidance urging employers to apply for a Sponsor Licence now to avoid being unprepared come January 2021.

At Cartwright King, our business immigration solicitors, Birmingham  can support UK businesses to apply for sponsorship licences. 

Brexit and Sponsorship Licences

Whilst it is yet to be seen whether the Brexit transition period will be extended due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is clear that the Government is concerned businesses will not be ready for the new immigration system. Businesses struggling amidst the pandemic are unlikely to be considering recruitment plans for 2021. Due to this, there is likely to be influx of Sponsor Licence applications at the end of the year which may result in Home Office processing delays.

At a time where businesses are looking to bounce back following the pandemic and require employees with specific key skills, it is vital that businesses are prepared.

The updated Government guidance for employers can be found here. Annex 9 confirms that employers who are not yet licenced sponsors, but will need to be from 1^st January 2021, can apply for a Sponsor Licence now.

They have released an introduction to the points-based immigration system for employers which can also be found here.

We recommend that employers that do not currently have a Sponsor Licence should apply now if they plan to sponsor migrants from January 2021. Applying early ensures that your business is prepared for the new immigration system.

Get in touch with our Birmingham Business immigration solicitors to find out what your options are.