Positive Verification Notice: Checking Right to Work
To avoid civil penalties and the possibility of criminal prosecution, employers must verify that all of their workforce are eligible to work in the UK. There are several ways that this can be done, including manual document checks and online checks. In some circumstances, when an individual cannot provide the required documentation or digital confirmation, […]
Employer Checking Service: Employers’ Guide
The Employer Checking Service (ECS) is a Home Office tool for employers to use in certain circumstances to verify an individual’s right to work. It is primarily used when an individual is unable to provide proof of their eligibility to work, typically because they have an outstanding visa or settlement application, an appeal or they […]
UKVI: Guide to UK Visas and Immigration
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is the government department responsible for managing the UK’s immigration system. It oversees visa applications, settlement, asylum claims, and citizenship requests, ensuring that only those who meet the required criteria are granted entry or residency in the UK. The department also regulates employer and educational institution sponsorship, allowing businesses and universities […]
UK Discretionary Leave to Remain Explained
The UK’s Immigration Rules allow numerous routes under which overseas nationals can apply for leave to remain. If, however, you aren’t eligible under any of these routes, there are certain circumstances in which it may still be appropriate for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to grant you discretionary leave to remain in the UK. Discretionary […]
Sponsor Licence Number: Explained
For UK-based organisations looking to sponsor migrant workers, they will first need to be allocated a unique sponsor licence number before being able to assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to new sponsored workers. Equally, for migrant workers looking to work in sponsored job roles in the UK, they will first need to be assigned a […]
Employment Case Law Update April 2025
Read on for our monthly digest for employers on upcoming employment law changes and key, recent employment tribunal cases. Legal definition of a ‘woman’ Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers In 2018, the Scottish Government enacted the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act, aiming to improve female representation on public […]
Stage Left: The Real Cost of Visa Politics in the UK
A hardline approach to immigration is hitting the UK’s live entertainment industry – and it’s to the detriment of us all. That’s why we’re sponsoring Liverpool-based arts and culture organisation Writing on the Wall, and specifically their annual festival, WoWFEST: 25 Years of Radical Writing. Through our involvement, we’re openly advocating for better UK-bound mobility […]
Bring Family to the UK: Visa Options & Guidance
If you are currently living in the UK but have family overseas, naturally you may want them to join you, although this is not as simple as paying for their airfare. There are lots of rules and requirements that must be met to obtain any necessary visa. Fortunately, if you are a British citizen or […]
Return to Work Interview: Employers’ Guide
Conducting a return to work interview is an essential part of an organisation’s absence management programme. Having a focused discussion with a returning employee is shown to help reduce unnecessary sickness absence and helps the returning employee transition back into the workplace environment with greater ease and with the necessary support from their employer. Return […]
Bereavement Leave Guide for Employers
Bereavement leave is a period of absence granted to employees following the death of a loved one, enabling them to grieve and manage practical arrangements. The new Employment Rights Bill is set to introduce specific provisions for bereaved workers, but currently, as the law stands, it offers little clarity or certainty in relation to bereavement […]