Authorising Officers to receive new UKVI notifications

From 9 September 2026, the UKVI introduced a range of new automated notifications for Authorising Officers, providing greater visibility over key activity taking place on sponsor licences.

Under the new arrangements, Authorising Officers will receive email notifications relating to:

• Changes to Level 1 User details
• Appointment of new Level 1 Users
• Changes to the Authorising Officer's email address
• Certificate of Sponsorship assignments (subject to assignment volumes)

These changes reflect the Home Office's continued focus on sponsor compliance and oversight. By providing additional notifications directly to Authorising Officers, UKVI is seeking to ensure that those with overall responsibility for the licence are kept informed of significant activity and any changes being made within the Sponsor Management System (SMS).

Sponsors should take this opportunity to verify that their Authorising Officer's contact details are accurate and up to date. It is also worth reviewing internal processes to ensure these notifications are monitored and acted upon where necessary, particularly in larger organisations where responsibility for sponsor licence management may be spread across multiple individuals.

As sponsor compliance requirements continue to evolve, clear governance arrangements and effective oversight of SMS activity are becoming increasingly important. These new notifications will provide an additional compliance safeguard, but only if the right individuals are receiving and reviewing them.

If you would like assistance reviewing your sponsor licence arrangements, updating key personnel details or preparing for the latest SMS changes, please contact our Immigration team. We would be happy to discuss how these changes may affect your organisation and the steps you should take to remain compliant.