The Authorising Officer (AO) is a crucial role in managing your sponsor licence and overseeing all activities in the SMS. Here’s a breakdown of what this role entails:
Managing SMS Users
The AO is responsible for appointing and overseeing SMS users within your organisation. This includes ensuring that all actions taken by representatives and users (such as Level 1 Users) align with immigration laws. As the AO, you’re accountable for all actions carried out under your organisation’s account.Primary Contact with the Home Office
The AO serves as the main point of contact with the Home Office regarding your sponsor licence. This includes ensuring that any required updates, such as changes in circumstances, are reported promptly and accurately.Maintaining Transparency and Honesty
It’s essential for the AO to act with full honesty and provide accurate information during the application process and throughout the licence’s life. Failing to disclose important information or providing false statements could result in the refusal or revocation of the licence.Undergoing Home Office Checks
As part of the AO’s responsibilities, the Home Office will conduct necessary checks, including reviewing any unspent criminal convictions or other matters that might affect their suitability for the role.
The AO is vital to ensuring compliance with immigration laws, maintaining communication with the Home Office, and upholding transparency in managing the sponsor licence.
Borderless is here to help clarify your queries around immigration law and your responsibilities. If you have any questions you can always use our Immigration Advice chatbot, or reach out to us if you can't find the answer.