New Home Office Guidance On Sponsorship Rules

Last month, we reported on the Government's crackdown on visa abuse and exploitation. As part of this, the Home Office has now updated its guidance in respect of the costs that employers are prohibited from recovering or attempting to recover from sponsored workers.

With effect from 31 December 2024, employers cannot recoup or attempt to recoup by any means the following costs.

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) fee (currently £239 per period of sponsorship, increasing to £525 from 11 February 2025) where the CoS was assigned on or after 31 December 2024; and
• Skilled Worker sponsor licence application fee and the 'associated administrative costs of [the] sponsor licence application'. The reference to 'associated administrative costs' is somewhat unclear, but the Home Office has specified this includes premium service fees in respect of obtaining a sponsor licence. We are seeking further clarification from the Home Office on this point and will update you as we