Tag Archives: Tier 2

UK Eases Visa Rules – 1st October 2013

Last Friday, Mark Harper, the immigration minister, announced changes which generally ease visa rules from 1st October 2013. Some of the key changes are: Removal of the English language requirement for intra-company transferees. Tourists and business visitors are allowed to do some study where it is not the main purpose of their visit. Share ownership […]

UK Tier 2 Visa

This guide is directed at individual skilled professionals who would like to work in the UK on a sponsored Tier 2 visa work permit . [/wptabcontent][/wpspoiler][wpspoiler name=”If you are an Employer”][wptabcontent] Click here for our employer’s guide to Tier 2 visas Information for Employers Tier 2 Employer Overview Tier 2 Sponsorship Licenses SOC Codes Shortage […]

Alternatives to Tier 2 Licensing

Securing a Tier 2 Sponsorship License and continually ensuring Immigration compliance can be an expensive and time consuming matter. If you are planning to sponsor 10+ workers the time and expense may be worthwhile, however if you need unique skill and experience combinations for shorter periods of time other options may be better.

Sponsor Ratings

The UK Border Agency assigns Tier 2 Licensed Employers a rating based on their compliance with Tier 2 rules and processes. ‘A-Rated’ License Holders have no evidence of abuse and comply with all necessary Tier 2 systems, ‘B-Rated’ License Holders have been found to lack adequate systems to maintain compliance. 

Sponsorship Duties

If you secure a Tier 2 Sponsorship License with the UK Border Agency you will be required to meet a number of ongoing Sponsorship Duties. This guide is a summary, and is not a substitute for professional advice. If you do not meet these duties you may find that your license is downgraded or cancelled.

Tier 2 Sponsorship Licenses

In order to sponsor an individual on a Tier 2 General visa your company must hold a Tier 2 Sponsorship License with the UK Border Agency (UKBA). To gain a license an application must be submitted which shows that you are a genuine organisation with suitable HR systems to ensure Immigration compliance.

Extending your stay when your Tier 5 Visa runs out

Are you a highly skilled Australian or New Zealander currently working in the UK on a Tier 2 General Visa? Are you looking to move to a new visa which will allow you to remain in the UK long term? If so Commonwealth Contractors can help!