The UKBA contacts tier 2 sponsors regarding COS allowances

The UKBA has been contacting authorised officers at tier 2 sponsors in relation to the new certificate of sponsorship allowance which will become effective from 6 April 2012. Any COS issued from that date will come from the new allocation.

Sponsors should consider the following when determining how many new unrestricted COS should be requested:

• the number of work permit or tier 2 extensions;
• employees who may need to switch from other categories (for instance tier 1 PSW) into tier 2;
• international graduates who will be entering tier 2 because tier 1 PSW closes in April 2012 (see below);
• those coming under the ICT route; and
• any specific projects that are on the horizon which may require the company to sponsor individuals from its allowance.  

We advise sponsors to apply promptly for their new allocation; this is done via the sponsor management system. The immigration team at Penningtons Solicitors LLP is able to provide advice and assistance to sponsors who are yet to apply.