UKVI enhances post-licence priority change of circumstances service: what you need to know.

28 Nov 2024, 17 mins ago

The priority change of circumstances (CoC) Service provides sponsor licence holders a way to submit their requests to the Home Office for expedited processing.

At Gherson, we are closely monitoring the recent updates from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) regarding this service. These changes are expected to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the service for sponsors.

Keeping up with UKVI updates is vital for effective sponsorship management. These recent enhancements to the priority CoC service represent a positive step towards greater flexibility and capacity for sponsors. By leveraging these improvements, you can manage your obligations better and support your workforce with confidence.

Types of requests that can be expedited

The priority change of circumstances service allows sponsors to prioritise certain requests each day by submitting an application via email. These requests are:

  • additional certificate of sponsorship (CoS) allocation
  • annual certificate of sponsorship (CoS) allocation
  • add a new level 1 user
  • change level one user
  • replace the authorising officer (AO)
  • amend the authorising officer (AO)
  • replace the key contact (KC)
  • amend the key contact (KC)
  • add a representative
  • amend your organisation details – moved to new premises

Extended service hours

Previously, the priority CoC Service operated from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Effective immediately, UKVI has extended the hours to 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. This two-hour extension provides greater flexibility for sponsors needing to make urgent changes outside traditional business hours. Sponsors now have a broader window to address their needs, whether early in the morning or late in the day.

Increased maximum requests

UKVI has also increased the daily maximum number of requests that can be made through the priority CoC service. The limit has risen from 60 requests to 100 requests. This change aims to accommodate more sponsors and streamline processing for high-demand periods.

Implications for sponsors

These updates are particularly advantageous for sponsors managing large workforces or frequently updating sponsorship details due to changing business needs. Key benefits include:

  1. Enhanced Flexibility: the extended hours enable sponsors to submit priority requests earlier in the day, making it easier to address urgent matters or accommodate different time zones.
  2. Greater Capacity: with the Home Office increasing the daily request limit, more sponsors can access the service. This is especially helpful for businesses experiencing growth or handling complex staffing arrangements.
  3. Improved Efficiency: the combination of more requests and extended hours contributes to faster processing times, minimising potential disruptions to your workforce and ensuring compliance with sponsorship obligations.

Next steps for sponsors

To take full advantage of these enhancements, we recommend that sponsors:

  • Review Current Processes: evaluate your existing procedures for managing sponsorship changes to identify how the extended hours and increased request limits can improve your operations.
  • Plan Ahead: with the ability to submit more requests, proactively plan your sponsorship updates to ensure all necessary changes are accounted for within the new limits.
  • Stay Informed: regularly review the UK government’s official guidance to keep up with any further updates or additional support services.

How we can help

Navigating the complexities of sponsorship changes can be challenging, particularly with evolving guidelines. At Gherson, we are here to assist you at every step. Whether you need help understanding the updates, managing multiple sponsorship requests or ensuring compliance with UKVI regulations, our tailored guidance ensures your needs are met efficiently and effectively.

Contact us today to learn how these UKVI updates can benefit your organisation and to keep your sponsorship processes smooth and compliant.

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The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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