Sponsor Guidance Changes Include Backtrack On Right To Work Checks

There are several updates to Home Office guidance this week that sponsors should be aware of. Especially as since the last set of updates sponsors are now required to read Home Office sponsor guidance in full and be aware of any developments (this being the third set of changes in three months).

The most dramatic update, which will come as a relief for many sponsoring employers, is a reversal of guidance updated just last month which required sponsors to carry out checks on the right to work of anyone they “directly engage” – not just their employees or workers they sponsor. The guidance has reversed this position.

These are the most significant updates – effective immediately (from 20 May 2026) with our explanation. The changes are in bold and links to the full guidance can be found below. Do take legal advice if you are concerned about how these updates will affect sponsor licence applications or compliance.