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By Sanwar Ali:
As the UK faces a significant skills shortage, employers are looking for ways to recruit and retain talent. One solution is the sponsor licence scheme, which allows employers to hire migrant workers from outside the UK on a skilled worker visa. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the current skills shortages in the UK, the sponsor licence scheme, the skilled worker visa process, and how employers can navigate this complex landscape.
Table of Contents
- Current Skills Shortages in the UK
- Sponsor Licence Scheme
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Shortage Occupation List
- Eligibility for Sponsorship
- Challenges in Employing Migrant Workers
- Certificate of Sponsorship
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- Complying with Sponsor Licence Obligations
- How Workpermit.com Can Help
Current Skills Shortages in the UK
A recent ManpowerGroup Talent Shortage survey revealed that 80% of UK businesses are experiencing difficulties filling jobs, more than double the pre-pandemic rate of 35% in 2019. The most difficult sectors to recruit for include communication services, energy and utilities, healthcare and life sciences, and information technology. As a result, many employers are turning to the sponsor licence scheme as a solution to address the skills shortages in the UK.
Sponsor Licence Scheme
The sponsor licence scheme allows UK employers to hire skilled migrant workers from outside the UK. To participate in the scheme, employers must first obtain a sponsor licence from the UK Home Office. This involves demonstrating that the company is a genuine organisation operating lawfully in the UK, with appropriate human resources systems in place to manage sponsored workers. The sponsor licence scheme is a crucial tool for employers facing skills shortages, as it enables them to tap into a global talent pool.
Skilled Worker Visa
The skilled worker visa is designed for non-UK residents who have been offered a skilled job in the UK. To qualify for this visa, applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence, and the role must be at an appropriate skill level. In addition, applicants must score enough points on the UK points-based immigration system, which takes into account factors such as English language skills, salary, and whether the job is on the shortage occupation list.
Shortage Occupation List
The shortage occupation list is a list of occupations that the UK government has identified as facing a significant skills shortage. Jobs on this list are given priority when it comes to skilled worker visa applications. Some of the occupations on the list include engineers, IT professionals, healthcare workers, and various roles in the creative industries. Employers looking to hire workers in these fields may find it easier to secure skilled worker visas for their prospective employees.
Eligibility for Sponsorship
To be eligible for sponsorship under the UK skilled worker visa scheme, applicants must meet certain criteria. They must:
- Have a valid job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence.
- Score enough points on the UK points-based immigration system.
- Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from their sponsoring employer.
- Prove their knowledge of English.
- Be able to support themselves financially without needing public funds.
Challenges in Employing Migrant Workers
Employing migrant workers under the sponsor licence scheme can be complex and time-consuming. Some of the challenges employers may face include:
- Navigating the UK points-based immigration system.
- Ensuring compliance with sponsor licence obligations.
- Managing the visa application process for prospective employees.
- Addressing concerns around Brexit and its impact on immigration policies.
Despite these challenges, the sponsor licence scheme remains a valuable tool for UK employers seeking to address skills shortages.
Certificate of Sponsorship
A certificate of sponsorship is a reference number issued by a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence. It serves as proof that the employer has offered a genuine job to a migrant worker and that the employer will comply with the requirements as a sponsor. The assigned certificate of sponsorship contains information about the job, salary, and the worker's personal details. It is needed for the worker's visa application process.
Immigration Health Surcharge
As part of the skilled worker visa application process, applicants are required to in many cases pay an immigration health surcharge (IHS). This payment helps to cover the cost of using the UK's National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the country. The IHS is paid upfront for the entire duration of the visa, and the amount depends on the length of the visa and the applicant's circumstances. Health and Care visa applicants do not need to pay this.
Complying with Sponsor Licence Obligations
Employers with a sponsor licence must comply with various obligations to maintain their licence and avoid penalties. Some of these obligations include:
- Ensuring that sponsored workers have the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience for their roles.
- Keeping accurate records of sponsored workers and their immigration status.
- Reporting any changes in the sponsored worker's circumstances to the Home Office.
- Cooperating with Home Office inspections and audits.
Failure to comply with these obligations can result in the suspension or revocation of the sponsor licence, as well as financial penalties.
How Workpermit.com Can Help with a Sponsor Licence
Workpermit.com can assist employers with obtaining a sponsor licence, hiring skilled workers, and complying with sponsor licence obligations. Our experienced team can provide guidance and support throughout the process, helping employers to navigate the complexities of the sponsor licence scheme and address skills shortages effectively.
For more information and advice, please contact us on 0344 991 9222 or at london@workpermit.com.
