Phishing Alert: Fake Home Office SMS Emails
Introduction: A New Digital Threat Facing Sponsor Licence Holders Phishing scams targeting the UKVI Sponsorship Management System (SMS) have surged across the UK, putting thousands of sponsor licence holders at risk. In October 2025, the Home Office warned organisations about fraudulent emails that mimic official messages. These phishing scam UKVI Sponsorship Management System emails often […]
Right to Work Checks in the UK : A Reminder from Home Office in Oct 2025
A new reminder from the Home Office highlights why every employer must carry out proper Right to Work checks on Job applicant’s before hiring.Illegal working not only fuels illegal migration, but also puts workers at risk of exploitation and undercuts compliant businesses. Every UK employer — whether a small shop or a large care provider […]
UK Student Visa: New Maintenance Funds (2025-2027)
UK Student Route Update: What’s Changing for Student Visa and Graduate Route Applicants A Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules was published on 14 October 2025, introducing two major updates for international students in the UK. 2025 UK Graduate Route Visa Changes From 11 November 2025, maintenance funds under the UK Student Route will […]
UK Digital ID Scheme: What Employers and Citizens Need to Know About Right to Work and Digital Access
Introduction The UK digital ID scheme is set to change how citizens and employers verify identity.By the end of this Parliament, a digital ID will become mandatory for Right to Work checks and new job hires, aiming to reduce illegal working and modernize how people access public services. While the plan offers convenience and stronger […]
Home Office Compliance: Care Sector Guide
The UK care sector faces intense Home Office compliance checks. Learn what’s changing, why scrutiny is increasing, and simple steps to protect your sponsor licence. Home Office compliance for care providers has become a serious operational concern. Many organisations depend on overseas workers to keep essential services running. However, when pay, hours, or job roles […]
Understanding UK Student Visa Interview Questions in 2025:
A Practical Guide If you are applying to study in the UK, you may be asked to attend a Credibility Interview. The purpose is simple: the Entry Clearance Officer wants to confirm that you are a genuine student, prepared for your studies, and able to support yourself while living in the UK. This guide breaks […]
What is the Skilled Worker Route in the UK?
The Skilled Worker route is the main visa pathway for overseas nationals who want to work in the UK. It allows Home Office–approved employers to sponsor skilled workers for eligible roles across different sectors. Key Requirements To qualify, the worker must: From 22 July 2025, most sponsored jobs must be: However, workers who were already […]
Happy Diwali from UKVICAS:
Lighting the Path to Compliance and Prosperity As Diwali, the festival of lights, brightens homes and hearts across the world, the UKVICAS team extends warm wishes for a safe, prosperous, and compliant Diwali to all our clients and partners. The spirit of Diwali embodies responsibility, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness—qualities every Sponsor […]
Cibo Restaurant Fined £80,000 for Hiring Illegal Workers – Why Every Employer Must Strengthen Right to Work Compliance
⚠️ A Costly Lesson in Compliance According to a BBC News report published on 1 October 2025, the owner of the well-known Cibo restaurant chain in Manchester has been fined £80,000 by the Home Office. This is due to employing illegal workers after three people were found working illegally at its Hale branch. The incident […]
Understanding Companies House Identity Verification: What Directors, PSCs, and Compliance Teams Need to Know
In 2025, Companies House introduced major changes to how UK companies and individuals handle identity verification and compliance. These reforms, based on the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, focus on stronger verification to stop fraud and improve transparency. If you are a director, a Person with Significant Control (PSC), or work on corporate compliance, you will need to meet […]