On 31st May 2023, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) updated the Appendix A list of supporting documents for sponsor license applications. This Sponsor Licence Documents article will explain the key changes and how they affect sponsor license applicants.
What is Appendix A?
Appendix A lists the documents required to support a Sponsor Licence Documents application. The updated version applies to all applications made or decided after 31st May 2023.
The list is divided into four tables:
- Table 1: Specific bodies and organizations – Certain government departments or public bodies may not need to submit all documents unless specified in Table 3.
- Table 2: Start-ups, franchises, charities, and regulated organizations – These applicants must provide specific documents.
- Table 3: Route-specific documents – This table covers categories like International Sportsperson, Global Business Mobility, and others.
- Table 4: Other permitted documents – You can use these to meet the minimum requirement of four documents.
It’s essential to provide the correct documents to give your sponsor license application the best chance of approval.
Key Changes to Appendix A (May 2023)
Table 3, which lists the route-specific documents, has undergone three major changes:
1. Government Authorised Exchange (Diplomatic Missions)
UKVI clarified that if a diplomatic mission or consular post is applying under the Diplomatic Missions Interns Scheme, they must provide a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO).
The updated guidance states:
“If you are applying as a diplomatic mission or consular post under the Diplomatic Missions Interns Scheme, you must send a signed MoU between your organization and the FCDO with your application.”
2. Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier
UKVI has clarified that applicants under the Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier route must provide evidence of an eligible contract with an overseas service provider. This contract must cover services included in a relevant and current UK trade agreement.
The guidance has been rewritten as:
“You must provide evidence that you have an eligible contract with an overseas service provider for the supply of a service covered by a relevant UK trade commitment currently in force or provisionally applied.”
3. UK Expansion Workers (Japanese and Australian Businesses)
The UK Expansion Worker category has seen changes regarding businesses from Japan and Australia. Following the implementation of the new UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on 31st May 2023, the section titled “Exception for Japanese Businesses” now includes Australian businesses.
Now, Japanese and Australian businesses expanding to the UK do not need to provide evidence that they have been trading overseas for at least 3 years (as listed in section 2(b) of the guidelines). However, they must still submit other required documents.
The updated guidance now reads:
“You do not have to submit documents under (2)(b) if you are a Japanese or Australian business expanding to the UK under the respective trade agreements. However, you must submit other required documents. If you want to sponsor more than one worker at a time, you must submit the documents under (2)(b).”
This change reflects the benefits of the UK-Australia FTA. Specifically, it eliminates tariffs, opens UK markets to Australian agricultural goods, and offers preferential terms in services, digital trade, and intellectual property.
Implications of the Changes for Sponsor Licence Applicants
The recent updates are relatively minor but are important for certain sponsor license categories.
- Changes 1 and 2 ensure that organizations have the correct contracts or agreements in place to meet sponsor license requirements.
- Change 3 impacts Japanese and Australian businesses, making it easier for them to expand into the UK without having to provide certain documents.
If you’re unsure whether you have the required documents or contracts for your sponsor license application, it’s a good idea to consult an immigration expert at Law and Visas. They can check your documents to make sure they meet UKVI’s requirements, and if needed, advise you on how to submit additional information (like a cover letter) to clarify any details.
How to Calculate the Cost of Your Sponsor Licence Application
If you’re applying for a sponsor license, you can calculate the approximate cost using our online calculator. Simply answer a few questions, and you’ll get an estimate of the fees involved in the process.
For expert guidance on sponsor license applications, including how to ensure your documents meet the latest UKVI requirements, Law and Visas is here to help. Contact us today for professional advice and support throughout the application process.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Sponsor Licence Documents or an Immigrant Investor Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration lawyer consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process, coordinating with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas and permits they need for international travel. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
