Search

How can we help?

Icon

The Sponsorship Management System (SMS) for Beginners

Last month, we posted an article on the role of the Authorising Officer and explained that this person does not have access to the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) unless he/she is a Level 1 or 2 user. Since then we’ve received enquiries from HR staff wanting to know more about the SMS, who has access to it and the differences between a Level 1 and 2 user.

What is the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)?

When you are granted a sponsor licence, the key personnel (level 1 and 2 users) you have chosen will be given access to the SMS. This online function will allow you to:

  • Apply for and assign Certificate of Sponsorships;
  • Report migrant activity such as:
    • Sponsored worker not attending work on the first day
    • Unauthorised absences from work
    • Early termination of employment
    • Significant changes to a sponsored worker’s job role/salary
    • Changes to sponsored worker’s employment (such as if they are affected by TUPE)
  • Reporting changes to your company’s details (acquisitions, mergers, changes of address and name)
Rebecca Hone

Senior Associate

View profile

+44 20 7539 8019

Since then we’ve received enquiries from HR staff wanting to know more about the SMS, who has access to it and the differences between a Level 1 and 2 user.

Who has access to the SMS?

Only those appointed as Level 1 and 2 users have access to the SMS. Such users:

  • Must be permanently based in the UK for the duration of the period that they will fill the role
  • Must meet the specific requirements on criminal convictions set out in the guidance notes
  • Can be paid member of staff or those engaged as an office holder. You could also appoint an employee of a third-party organisation who assists you with your HR functions or a UK based legal representative

You can appoint/deactivate users via the SMS.

What is the difference between a Level 1 and 2 User?

A Level 1 user has full access to the SMS and can:

  • Add/remove Level 2 users
  • Assign CoS
  • Request more unrestricted CoS
  • Inform UKVI of changes to your details
  • Report worker activity and inform UKVI of changes of work addresses
  • Renew the sponsor licence and track progress

A Level 2 user has limited access to the SMS and can only:

  • Assign CoS
  • Report worker activity

Whilst the SMS can be tricky to navigate, the government has published guidance on using certain functions.

About this article

Disclaimer
This information is for guidance purposes only and should not be regarded as a substitute for taking legal advice. Please refer to the full General Notices on our website.

Rebecca Hone

Senior Associate

View profile

+44 20 7539 8019

About this article

Read, listen and watch our latest insights

art
  • 21 March 2024
  • Immigration

What is a right to work share code?

A right to work share code is a unique 9-character alphanumeric code generated via the UK Government website. This initiative has been implemented by the UK Government to verify an individual’s right to work online.

art
  • 06 March 2024
  • Immigration

New Immigration Rules: Business Visitors to the UK

As of 31 January 2024, the UK has undertaken substantial revisions to the immigration rules for business visitors.

art
  • 21 February 2024
  • Immigration

FAQs Partner Visa UK

Discover the UK Spouse Visa: eligibility, finances, relationship criteria, and the latest updates in 2024 for a successful application.

Pub
  • 07 February 2024
  • Immigration

Spouse Visa UK Guide 2024

Our immigration solicitors have a proven track record of obtaining fiancé, spouse and unmarried partner visa for applicants wishing to come to the UK as the partner of a British/ Irish citizen or person present and settled in the UK.

art
  • 06 February 2024
  • Immigration

Spouse Visa – Is your relationship genuine and subsisting?

For years many couples have become frustrated by the requirements for a spouse visa as the rules and guidance are difficult to understand. A significant amount of applications are rejected on the basis of the applicant not providing the adequate documents to evidence the relationship requirement.

art
  • 23 January 2024
  • Immigration

Partner visa – Is your relationship genuine and subsisting?

Many couples have become frustrated with the requirements for a UK Partner visa as the rules and guidance are difficult to understand. A significant number of applications are refused based on failing to provide adequate documentation to evidence the relationship requirement.