Sector-Specific Compliance
Immigration Compliance for Recruitment Businesses
Agencies and their clients need clarity on who checks and who is liable.
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What the issue is
Recruitment businesses that employ or supply workers need clear arrangements on right to work checks and, where sponsoring, on where work is carried out.
Why it matters
The same legal duties apply in every sector, but the practical risk points differ. Recognising them helps a business focus its checks and reviews.
When advice may be appropriate
Before sponsoring, after an enforcement contact, or when the business model changes.
Common failures
- Assuming the client conducts checks, and supply arrangements that conflict with sponsor rules.
Evidence to keep
Examples to consider where relevant — not a complete or mandatory list.
- Right to work and sponsor records for every relevant worker.
- Written allocation of responsibilities with any agencies or contractors.
Practical preventative steps
- Review the sector-specific risk points with your process owner.
- Consider a solicitor-led compliance review.
Official rules and guidance
- GOV.UK: Employer's guide to right to work checks
- GOV.UK: Workers and Temporary Workers — guidance for sponsors
Rules and guidance change. Check the current official sources before relying on this information.
This is general legal information for organisations, not advice on your circumstances. Duties depend on your business, workers and the rules and guidance in force at the relevant time. No outcome is guaranteed.
Andrew Williams Solicitors provides regulated legal advice, legal review, representation and solicitor-led compliance support. Compliance monitoring and workflow technology (such as ICMS and ComplianceWatch) is provided separately by Ibiab Systems and is not legal advice.
Related compliance topics
When solicitor advice may be appropriate
Speak to Andrew Williams Solicitors about your organisation's position, a Home Office visit, a penalty notice or a licence concern. Scope and fees are agreed in writing before substantive work begins.