Migra&Co

On 22 February 2010, the UK immigration authorities will introduce the latest version of the Sponsorship Management System (SMS). At the same time, will implement the final phase of Tier 4 of the Points Based System.

The Sponsorship Management System for Tiers 2 and 5 Sponsors will include the following enhancements:

· Tiers 2 and 5 Sponsors will be able to create, assign and pay for certificates in batches.

· A Sponsor Note facility will allow the Sponsor to inform the UK Border Agency of minor changes to a certificate before it is used.

· A Sponsor will be able to create a certificate based on a workers previous certificate.

· A Sponsor will be able to input the details of a group or batch certificate based on the details of the previous certificate within the group or batch.

· A Level 1 User will now be able to transfer single, group or batch certificates between the Sponsors other users.

· A Tier 2 A-rated Sponsor will be able to confirm that they will support the overseas worker in order that they do not claim public funds.

The SMS will be unavailable from 19:30 on Friday 19th February 2010 to 8:00 on Saturday 20th February 2010 and Sponsors will be unable to access the SMS for any Tiers of the Points Based System.

All the updates to the SMS will be reflected in the SMS User Guides and policy guidance.