Reporting Migrant Worker Changes: A Guide for UK Sponsors
What you need to know
- •Most changes must be reported within 10 working days.
- •Reports are made through the Sponsor Management System (SMS).
- •Reportable changes include absences, salary changes, job changes, and departures.
- •Non-compliance can lead to sponsor licence suspension or revocation.
- •Keep accurate records of all reports submitted.
Licensed sponsors must report a range of changes about their sponsored workers through the Sponsor Management System. Failure to report can result in compliance action, licence downgrading, or revocation. This guide covers all reporting requirements.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.
Your Reporting Duties
As a licensed sponsor, you have ongoing duties to report changes about your sponsored workers. These duties are part of your sponsor responsibilities and are monitored by the Home Office.
Reports are submitted through the Sponsor Management System (SMS), the online portal used to manage your sponsor licence, assign Certificates of Sponsorship, and fulfil compliance obligations.
What You Must Report
Worker Stops Working
Report within 10 working days when a sponsored worker:
- Resigns or is dismissed
- Is made redundant (see redundancy and Skilled Worker visas)
- Does not start the job
- Is absent without permission for 10 or more consecutive working days
Changes to Employment
- Change of job title, duties, or core hours
- Significant change in salary (reduction or increase)
- Change of work location
- Promotion or demotion that changes the nature of the role
Worker's Personal Details
- Change of home address
- Change of contact details
- Criminal conviction
Sponsorship Issues
- If you suspect the worker is breaching their visa conditions
- If the worker's circumstances change in a way that affects their eligibility
Reporting Through the SMS
The Sponsor Management System is accessed online. Only authorised users can submit reports. You should ensure that:
- Your authorising officer, key contact, and Level 1 users are kept up to date.
- At least one authorised user is always available to submit reports.
- Reports are submitted within the required timeframes.
- You keep records of all reports submitted, including dates and reference numbers.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.
Timeframes
Most reports must be made within 10 working days of the change occurring. Some specific situations have different timeframes:
- Worker not starting: Report within 10 working days of the expected start date.
- Unauthorised absence: Report on the 10th working day of absence.
- Changes to your organisation: (mergers, takeovers, changes of address) must be reported as they happen.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The Home Office takes reporting duties seriously. Non-compliance can result in:
- A compliance visit ( Home Office audit)
- Downgrading from A-rated to B-rated status
- Suspension of your sponsor licence
- Revocation of your sponsor licence, which affects all your sponsored workers
- Civil penalties
Best Practices
- Designate a responsible person or team for sponsor compliance.
- Set up internal processes so that HR changes trigger SMS reports.
- Train all relevant staff on reporting requirements.
- Keep a log of all SMS reports with dates and details.
- Conduct regular internal audits of your compliance processes.
- Stay updated on changes to sponsor guidance from the Home Office.
Next Steps
Review your current reporting processes and ensure you are meeting all requirements. If you are unsure about a specific reporting obligation, check the sponsor guidance on GOV.UK or seek legal advice.
Related guides:
This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an OISC-registered adviser or immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the latest rules.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.