What Happens When a Sponsor Licence is Revoked?

If UKVI revokes a sponsor licence, the following will occur:

• The licence will be revoked across all tiers and categories for which the sponsor is authorised.
• The sponsor will be removed from the register of sponsors and lose the ability to sponsor workers.

Common Reasons for Sponsor Licence Revocation

UKVI can revoke a sponsor licence for both mandatory and discretionary reasons. Some common grounds for revocation include:

• Providing False Information: The sponsor knowingly submitted false details on their sponsor licence application.
• Failure to Meet Action Plan Requirements: A sponsor with a B-rated licence fails to complete the requirements of their action plan within the specified timeframe.
• Employing Workers in Ineligible Roles: Employing a migrant in a role that does not meet the required skill level.

In some cases, if a sponsor breaches their duties, UKVI may initially suspend the licence while conducting further investigations. Following these enquiries, UKVI will decide to either:

• Reinstate the Licence
• Downgrade the Licence
• Revoke the Licence

Consequences of Sponsor Licence Revocation

If a sponsor licence is revoked, the following consequences apply:

• Curtailment of Sponsored Workers’ Leave: Sponsored workers’ visas will usually be curtailed to 60 calendar days unless they have fewer than 60 days remaining.
• Options for Sponsored Workers: Workers must either:
  • Apply for leave in a different visa category.
  • Find new employment with another licensed sponsor.
  • Leave the UK before their curtailed leave expires.
• No Right of Appeal: There is no right to appeal a revocation decision.
• Cooling-Off Period: Sponsors must wait 12 months before reapplying for a new licence.

Reapplying After Licence Revocation

When reapplying for a sponsor licence after the cooling-off period, sponsors must:

• Address the Reasons for Revocation: Demonstrate how previous compliance issues have been resolved.
• Ensure Robust Compliance Measures: Implement strong HR systems and procedures to meet UKVI standards.

Protect Your Licence with Expert Support

Maintaining compliance with UKVI regulations is critical to avoid licence revocation. Regular compliance checks, robust HR processes, and expert guidance can help protect your licence.

If your sponsor licence is at risk, contact us today for professional advice and support.