The UK care sector is facing a significant shortage of skilled workers, making it essential for care homes to look beyond local talent and recruit qualified professionals from overseas. To do this legally, care homes need a sponsor licence. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a sponsor licence for a care home, including the application process, compliance requirements, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
If you’re just getting started, make sure to read our detailed Sponsor Licence Application guide to understand the basics.
What Is a Sponsor Licence for a Care Home?
A sponsor licence allows UK care homes to legally employ skilled workers from outside the UK. It’s particularly relevant for care homes that want to hire healthcare professionals under the skilled worker visa or the health and care worker visa. The licence enables care homes to issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to prospective employees, granting them the right to work in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria for Care Homes
Before applying for a sponsor licence, it's crucial to ensure your care home meets the sponsor licence eligibility criteria. This includes:
- Being a genuine and operational care home in the UK.
- Demonstrating a genuine need for skilled workers.
- Having the necessary systems in place to monitor sponsored employees.
Additionally, you must appoint key personnel, such as a Sponsor Licence Authorising Officer, to manage your sponsor licence duties.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Sponsor Licence
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
The first step involves gathering all the necessary documents, including proof of business registration, financial statements, and sponsor licence documents. This ensures you meet the Home Office requirements.
Step 2: Choose the Right Licence Type
Care homes typically apply for a sponsor licence under the "Worker" route, which covers long-term employment. If you’re unsure, refer to our sponsor licence application guide for more details.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Submit your application through the Home Office portal, providing details of your care home, key personnel, and the roles you’re looking to sponsor. Remember to pay the appropriate sponsor licence fee.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Sponsor Licence?
The standard processing time is usually 8 weeks, but care homes can use the Sponsor Licence Priority Service to get a decision within 10 working days. For more information on processing times, read our guide on how long does a sponsor licence take.
Sponsor Licence Costs for Care Homes
The cost of obtaining a sponsor licence depends on the size of your care home. You will also need to pay the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) for each sponsored worker. For a detailed breakdown of costs, check out our sponsor licence fees article.
Maintaining Compliance as a Sponsor Licence Holder
Once your care home has a sponsor licence, it's crucial to comply with the sponsor licence duties outlined by the Home Office. This includes:
- Record Keeping: Maintain up-to-date records of all sponsored workers, including job descriptions, salary details, and contact information.
- Reporting Duties: Report any changes in employment, such as changes in job roles or if a sponsored worker leaves your care home. Learn more about this in our guide on sponsor licence change of circumstances.
- Compliance with SMS: Use the sponsor management system (SMS) to manage your sponsored employees. If you’re new to this system, read our guide on the SMS.
Failure to meet these requirements can result in a sponsor licence revocation, so it's essential to stay informed and compliant.
What Happens If Your Sponsor Licence Is Revoked?
If your care home fails to comply with sponsorship duties, your licence can be downgraded, suspended, or even revoked. If this happens, you may no longer be able to sponsor skilled workers, which can impact the operation of your care home significantly. In case of sponsor licence revocation, it's crucial to act quickly to rectify any compliance issues.
Sponsor Licence Renewal
A sponsor licence is valid for 4 years, after which you must renew it to continue sponsoring workers. Make sure you apply for sponsor licence renewal before it expires to avoid disruption to your recruitment process.
The Importance of the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once your care home has obtained a sponsor licence, you can issue a certificate of sponsorship (CoS) to skilled workers you wish to hire. Each worker needs a CoS to apply for their visa. Ensure you have sufficient CoS allocations through the SMS and issue them accurately to avoid visa refusals.
How Borderless Can Help Your Care Home
Applying for and managing a sponsor licence can be complex, but Borderless offers expert guidance every step of the way. We assist with the application process, help you understand your compliance obligations, and manage the SMS on your behalf. If you need assistance, feel free to get in touch with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Small Care Homes Apply for a Sponsor Licence?
Yes, as long as you meet the sponsor licence eligibility requirements, care homes of any size can apply.
How Much Does a Sponsor Licence Cost for Care Homes?
The cost varies based on the size of your care home. Use our visa fees calculator to estimate your costs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Sponsor Licence?
The typical processing time is 8 weeks. However, you can expedite the process with the Sponsor Licence Priority Service.
Can My Sponsor Licence Be Revoked?
Yes, if you fail to meet your compliance duties, your licence can be downgraded or revoked. Learn more about sponsor licence revocation.
What Is the Role of the Sponsor Licence Authorising Officer?
The Sponsor Licence Authorising Officer is responsible for ensuring compliance with all sponsorship duties.
Conclusion
Obtaining a sponsor licence is a crucial step for care homes looking to recruit skilled workers from overseas. By understanding the process, meeting compliance obligations, and staying informed, you can effectively manage your sponsor licence and ensure your care home remains fully staffed. If you need expert guidance, contact us at Borderless for assistance.
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