How do I sponsor a migrant?
Level 1 user
This page explains the role of the level 1 user of a licensed sponsor under the point-based system.
On this page
The role of the level 1 user
The level 1 user will conduct your day-to-day sponsorship activities by using the sponsorship management system. The level 1 user can:
- ask for additional level 1 users and add level 2 users or remove them;
- assign certificates of sponsorship to migrants;
- ask for an increase in the number of certificates of sponsorship that a sponsor can assign (its limit);
- tell us of minor changes to the sponsor?s details;
- fill in the change of circumstances section to ask us to record bigger changes in the sponsor?s circumstances;
- report migrant activity to us (for example, inform us if a migrant goes missing or does not attend their job or course);
- withdraw certificates of sponsorship;
- manage work or study addresses;
- amend user details.
Assigning more level 1 users
When you apply online, you can only appoint one level 1 user on the sponsor application online. When you get your licence you can use the sponsorship management system to ask for more level 1 users.
The number of level 1 users
You can appoint as many level 1 users as you think you will need, based on the structure of your business and your business needs.
As the authorising officer is responsible for the actions of the users, it is advisable to keep the number of level 1 users to the minimum necessary for effective business operation.
Who the level 1 user can be
The level 1 user can be:
- a paid member of staff or office holder (people who hold unpaid jobs); or
- an employee of a third party organisation used to deliver all or part of their human resource function; or
- a representative.
The level 1 user must be based in the United Kingdom. If the organisation has overseas branches the authorising officer can only appoint a level 1 user who is based in a United Kingdom branch. A legal representative may act as the level 1 user.
Who the level 1 user cannot be
The level 1 user cannot be:
- a contractor;
- a consultant who is contracted for a specific project;
- a temporary member of staff supplied by an agency.
Application forms
Sponsor change of circumstances form
- Sponsor change of circumstances formPDF 273KB opens in a new window
Terms explained
-
Certificates of sponsorship
These are virtual documents (unique reference numbers) that an organisation gives to migrants they want to employ, and that the migrant uses when applying.under the points-based system for coming to the United Kingdom to work, train or study. Also known as confirmation of acceptance for studies.
-
Legal representative
A solicitor or other qualified adviser who advises you on how our laws apply to your case.
-
Sponsorship management system
An IT system used by organisations that sponsor migrants under the points-based system. It allows sponsors to allocate certificates of sponsorship to migrants, carry out the administrative functions necessary to comply with their sponsor obligations and duties, and communicate information to us.