Sponsor compliance: current Part 3 guidance
Sponsor licence compliance is governed by the current Workers and Temporary Workers sponsor guidance, including Part 3: sponsor duties and compliance. Version 05/26 is valid from 20 May 2026.
Part 3 confirms that sponsors must monitor compliance with the Immigration Rules, sponsor guidance and wider UK law. Sponsors must keep accurate records, report relevant changes, comply with right to work duties, monitor sponsored workers and remain prepared for Home Office compliance action.
The old four-year sponsor licence renewal requirement was removed on 6 April 2024 for most sponsors. The practical risk is therefore not “renewal” in the old sense, but whether the licence would survive Home Office scrutiny, suspension or revocation action.
Current source: Sponsor guidance Part 3: sponsor duties and compliance, version 05/26. Last reviewed by NA Law Solicitors: June 2026.
Sponsor Licence Refusal | What to Do Next
A Sponsor Licence refusal can delay recruitment and create business risk. Get advice before deciding whether to reapply, challenge or restructure the application.
Book a Case Assessment →Why Sponsor Licence Applications Are Refused
UKVI may refuse an application if it is not satisfied the business is genuine, the role is credible, the documents are complete, or the organisation can meet sponsor duties. Refusal reasons must be reviewed carefully before any fresh application is made.
What to Do Next
- Review the refusal reasons in detail.
- Identify whether the issue is evidence, genuineness, HR systems or eligibility.
- Correct compliance weaknesses before reapplying.
- Prepare a stronger application with clear legal submissions.
Current Fee Position
| Fee Item | Current GOV.UK Amount |
|---|---|
| Worker sponsor licence: small or charitable sponsor | £611 |
| Worker sponsor licence: medium or large sponsor | £1,682 |
| Certificate of Sponsorship for Skilled Worker | £525 |
| Immigration Skills Charge: small or charitable sponsor | £480 per year per worker |
| Immigration Skills Charge: medium or large sponsor | £1,320 per year per worker |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I appeal a Sponsor Licence refusal?
Sponsor Licence refusals do not usually carry a full appeal right. The available options depend on the reason for refusal and may include correcting the issues and reapplying.
Will a cooling-off period apply?
A cooling-off period can apply in refusal cases. The length and effect depend on the refusal reason and the sponsor guidance in force.
Should I reapply immediately?
Not unless the refusal reasons have been properly addressed. A rushed reapplication can repeat the same problems.
How much is a Worker sponsor licence application?
Current GOV.UK fees list the Worker sponsor licence fee as £611 for a small or charitable sponsor and £1,682 for a medium or large sponsor.
How much is a Skilled Worker Certificate of Sponsorship?
The current Skilled Worker Certificate of Sponsorship fee is £525. Sponsors should also budget for the Immigration Skills Charge where it applies.
What is the Immigration Skills Charge?
The Immigration Skills Charge is a charge paid by sponsors when assigning certain Certificates of Sponsorship. Current rates are £480 per year for a small or charitable sponsor and £1,320 per year for a medium or large sponsor, per year of sponsorship.
Can EU nationals need sponsorship?
Yes. EU and EEA nationals who arrived after 31 December 2020 and do not hold Settled Status, Pre-Settled Status or another right to work may need sponsorship like other non-settled workers.
Can NA Law Solicitors help with compliance?
Yes. We advise on sponsor licence applications, CoS allocation, right to work checks, compliance systems, refusals, suspensions and revocations.
Speak to a Sponsor Licence Specialist
Get practical advice before applying, assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship, or responding to a Home Office issue.
Book a Case Assessment →