Bisina SomtoThe United Kingdom (UK) Home Office has announced plans to extend the renewal period for UK work visa sponsor licenses from four years to a decade.
This shift brings a sigh of relief to expatriates and employers alike, promising to simplify processes and reduce financial burdens associated with maintaining a workforce in the UK.
Acquiring a sponsor license is pivotal for employers seeking to recruit individuals from outside the UK, including citizens of EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland who entered the UK post-December 31, 2020. Educational institutions also rely on sponsor licenses for admitting international students and faculty members.
From April 6, the obligation to renew sponsor licenses every four years will be eliminated. Instead, expiring licenses will automatically receive a ten-year extension, eliminating the need for future renewals.
Sponsors holding valid licenses need not take any action, as their licenses will be automatically included in this extension.
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In the past, entities sponsoring licenses were required to apply for renewal 90 days before expiration, incurring fees ranging from £536 to £1,476 depending on business size and charitable status. The renewal process could extend up to eight weeks, adding administrative burdens and costs to employers.
The Home Office has also announced plans to refund fees for sponsors currently in the renewal process and advises checking license expiration dates via the online Sponsorship Management System (SMS). Those in the midst of renewal procedures will be contacted directly.
This development occurs amidst ongoing debates surrounding immigration in the UK. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s administration has proposed increases in costs associated with hiring foreign staff, including a significant rise in the salary threshold announced last December.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
She covers a wide range of topics, from celebrity interviews to industry trends and film reviews.
As an Entertainment Reporter for Prime Business Africa, She continues to provide comprehensive and insightful coverage of the entertainment industry, offering readers an insider's perspective on the latest developments and trends. She is a trusted source for breaking news, exclusive interviews, and thought-provoking analyses.
Somto is dedicated to providing valuable information and entertainment to her audience while upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity.
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