How do I sponsor a migrant worker?
Level 2 user
This page explains the role of the level 2 user of a licensed sponsor under the point-based system.
On this page
Who can be a level 2 user?
Level 2 users can be:
- a paid staff member or office holder (someone who holds an unpaid job);
- an employee of a third-party organisation used to deliver all or part of your human resource system; or
- a member of staff supplied to you by an employment agency.
They must not be:
- a contractor, or a consultant who is contracted for a specific project; or
- an undischarged bankrupt.
If a level 2 user is not a settled worker, they must not assign a certificate of sponsorship to themselves, a close relative or their partner. A close relative or partner is a:
- husband;
- wife;
- civil partner;
- unmarried partner;
- same-sex partner;
- mother;
- father;
- son or step-son;
- daughter or step-daughter;
- brother or half-brother; or
- sister or half-sister.
The level 2 user must be permanently based in the UK during the period that they fill that role. A representative in the UK may also act as a level 2 user.
How many level 2 users can I appoint?
You can appoint as many level 2 users as you need. Level 2 users have a more restricted range of permissions than level 1 users.
As the authorising officer is responsible for the actions of the users, it is advisable to keep the number of level 2 users to the minimum necessary for effective business operation.
What the level 2 user can do
A level 2 user can:
- assign certificates of sponsorship to migrants; and
- report migrant activity to us (for example, tell us if a migrant goes missing, or does not attend their job).
Terms explained
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Certificates of sponsorship
These are virtual documents (unique reference numbers) that an organisation gives to migrants they want to employ, and that the migrant uses when applying.under the points-based system for coming to the United Kingdom to work, train or study. Also known as confirmation of acceptance for studies.
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Sponsorship management system
An IT system used by organisations that sponsor migrants under the points-based system. It allows sponsors to allocate certificates of sponsorship to migrants, carry out the administrative functions necessary to comply with their sponsor obligations and duties, and communicate information to us.