Every organisation with a Skilled Worker or other sponsored visa licence must appoint an Authorising Officer.
The AO is the most senior person responsible for the sponsor licence and the organisation’s compliance with UK immigration law. The AO is accountable for:
Managing Sponsor Management System (SMS) users
Ensuring compliance with sponsorship duties
Acting as the primary liaison with the Home Office
🎯 Core Responsibilities
1. Managing SMS Users
Appoint, monitor, and manage SMS users (e.g., Level 1 Users).
Ensure all actions carried out within the SMS comply with immigration laws.
Retain oversight and accountability for all activities undertaken via the organisation’s SMS account.
2. Primary Contact with the Home Office
Act as the official point of contact with the Home Office regarding the sponsor licence.
Ensure changes in circumstances (e.g., change of address, key personnel changes, mergers/acquisitions) are reported accurately and on time.
Respond promptly to Home Office queries or compliance audit requests.
3. Maintaining Transparency and Honesty
Provide accurate, truthful information during the licence application process and throughout the life of the licence.
Disclose any relevant information that may affect the licence or the AO’s suitability for the role.
Avoid omissions or false statements - these can result in licence refusal, suspension, or revocation.
4. Undergoing Home Office Checks
The AO will be subject to Home Office checks, including:
Unspent criminal convictions
Compliance history with immigration laws
Any factors that could impact the AO’s suitability
⚠️ Compliance Risks
Failure to meet AO responsibilities can result in:
Suspension or revocation of the sponsor licence
Visa curtailment for sponsored workers
Loss of ability to sponsor new workers
Potential reputational and legal consequences for the organisation
📌 Best Practice for AOs
Conduct regular internal audits of SMS activity and compliance processes.
Ensure all SMS users are trained on sponsor duties.
Keep records and evidence of compliance activity.
Maintain clear communication between HR, recruitment, and compliance teams.
💬 Need help or an update? - Open the Support tab at the bottom right of your screen to contact our team directly.