Background
We were approached by a Church looking to explore the possibility of employing workers from South Africa. The church has been operating on a small-scale basis for years and felt they did not have what it takes to get a sponsor Licence.
A UK based organisation will need a sponsor licence to employ someone to work for them from outside the UK. This includes citizens of the European Union, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland who arrived in the UK after 31st December 2020.
We were also able to assist our client in obtaining a certificate of sponsorship and in successfully applying for a visa to enable the Applicant to enter the UK.
How we assisted our client
- We initially arranged a meeting with one of the trustees and talked them through the step-by-step process and requirements. This involved proving that the Church is a genuine religious body and had a genuine need to employ a candidate who is not already settled in the UK.
- After a health check on their records, we were able to identify some aspects of their history that needed to be improved upon. We then created a checklist for the trustee to put together a dossier which was reviewed and approved in readiness for us to commence preparation of the initial application.
- We advised the church to interview the prospective employee and provide evidence of same. This is to show that the identified candidate has the requisite skills and experience to do the job. They were also advised to ensure their records with HMRC are in good shape and to choose a suitable individual in a senior position to act as the Authorizing Officer, to liaise with the Home Office during and after the application.
- The application was submitted with evidential documents to prove to the Home Office that, the church was registered with the Charity Commission and in good standing. We also proved that there was a genuine vacancy to be filled at the church as opposed to the vacancy created to circumvent immigration laws.
- We were able to secure priority service for the church and the licence was issued without delay.
Our services do not end when you have your licence, we can also provide after service care for as long as you need us. You will continue to have direct contact with a qualified lawyer.
A sponsor licence is usually valid for as long as the organisation continue to meet the eligibility requirements. The Home Office will conduct a compliance check on organisations when they want to keep track of the day to day activities and HR system.
If you think your organisation may not meet the eligibility requirements to apply for a sponsor licence, or you want the reassurance of legal advice to ensure you get things right, please contact us.
Email; immigrationfeeearners@branchaustinmccormick.com
