Right to Work Guidance: Supplementary Employment, Students

Updated Right to Work Guidance for Employers: Supplementary Employment and Students

In September 2024, the UK government significantly updated its right-to-work guidance for employers. Employers should stay on top of these changes, particularly when employing workers on sponsored visas and students. Below is an overview of the key updates and what they mean for you.

Supplementary Employment

In the 2024 changes to the UK immigration rules, more flexibility was given to workers on a Skilled Worker visa. It is now permissible for sponsored Skilled Workers to take on additional employment, but this must be in line with specific conditions:

  • The supplementary job must be listed in Tables 1, 2, or 3 of Appendix Skilled Occupations.
  • It must not exceed 20 hours per week.
  • It must take place outside the contracted hours for their sponsored job.

This means a Skilled Worker can take on additional roles if the extra work fits these guidelines. For example, a software developer on a Skilled Worker visa could work part-time as a data scientist, provided it’s listed and doesn’t interfere with their primary role.

The rules are more specific for workers on other sponsored routes, such as the Intra-Company routes (pre-11 April 2022), Senior or Specialist Workers, or T2 Minister of Religion. These workers can only take up supplementary employment if:

  • The job is in the same profession and at the same professional level as their main role or listed in the Appendix Immigration Salary List.
  • The supplementary job doesn’t exceed 20 hours per week.
  • It happens outside the contracted hours for their sponsored employment.

Employers must take steps to confirm that supplementary employment meets these requirements.

The guidance clarifies that employers should request documentation from the worker’s primary sponsor confirming that they are still employed, along with the job description, occupation code, and contracted working hours.

Continuing to employ a worker who breaches these conditions could result in penalties, so be diligent in conducting right-to-work checks.

International Students

International students can work while studying in the UK, but there are restrictions. Employers need to be aware of the conditions that apply, especially regarding the number of hours students are allowed to work during term time.

  • Students may work 10 or 20 hours per week during term time, depending on their visa conditions.
  • They can work full-time during holidays, before their course starts, and after course completion (within the time allowed by their visa).
  • Students can only take up permanent full-time employment if they switch to a visa that allows this, such as the Skilled Worker or Graduate routes.

Employers should always verify a student’s right to work by using the Home Office’s "Check a job applicant’s right to work" online service. You’ll also need to check with the student’s educational provider for their academic term dates to confirm they comply with their work conditions.

It’s important to remember that students are not permitted to work as professional sportspersons or entertainers, and the total number of paid and voluntary work hours must not exceed the limit set by their visa.

Keep detailed records of right-to-work checks, including academic term dates, to avoid potential penalties.

What to Do if Circumstances Change

If there is a change in an employee’s circumstances, such as their visa status or academic enrolment, their right to work could be affected. Here’s what you should be aware of:

  • If the worker or student applies to switch their visa (e.g., from a student visa to a Skilled Worker visa), their current work conditions remain in place until the Home Office makes a decision.
  • If a student or worker’s sponsor loses their licence or they stop studying or working for their sponsor, their permission to work may be curtailed. This means their right to work could end immediately or within 60 days, depending on the circumstances.

Employers must stay updated on the status of their employees’ visas and take the necessary steps if a change affects their right to work. This may involve contacting the Home Office or taking steps to terminate the employment.

Final Thoughts for Employers

Understanding and following the latest right-to-work rules is essential to avoid civil penalties. Whether you're employing Skilled Workers, students, or volunteers, make sure to:

  • Conduct thorough right-to-work checks.
  • Keep accurate and up-to-date records, including confirmation of student term dates and employment verification for sponsored workers.
  • Ensure that any supplementary employment meets the required conditions.
  • Be proactive in seeking advice if unsure about an individual’s right to work.

For more detailed information, refer to the Employer's Guide to Right to Work Checks document on the government’s website or contact us to discuss further. Compliance with these rules will help you avoid penalties and keep your workforce running smoothly.

Expert Support for Right-to-Work Compliance

Ensure your business stays compliant with right-to-work rules, including supplementary employment for workers and students. Immtell is here to provide tailored guidance and practical solutions.

Further Reading

Prepare for a Home Office Immigration Compliance Audit

Be Audit-Ready: Guidance for Navigating Home Office Compliance Audits

Avoid UK Illegal Working Penalties: Right to Work Compliance 2025

Protect Your Business from Fines and Reputational Damage with Proactive UK Right to Work Compliance Strategies

Guide to Right to Work Checks in 2025

Navigating UK Right-to-Work Rules: Essential Guidance for UK Employers in 2025

Choose the Right UK Immigration Consultancy for Your Business

Finding the Right Immigration Partner for Your Business Success

Home Office Sponsor Licence Holders: Reporting Duties

A Guide to Complying with Home Office Sponsor Duties for Employers

How to Respond When Your Home Office Sponsor Licence is Revoked

Has Your Home Office Sponsor Licence Been Revoked? Don't Panic!

All You Need to Know About Sponsor Licences

Guide to Hiring Global Talent: Everything You Need to Know About Sponsor Licences

Become a Sponsor: Steps for Employers and Businesses

Business Requirements for a Sponsorship Licence in 2025

Marcus Wright

We took advantage of Immtell’s remote compliance check and were blown away by the detail. The resulting report highlighted issues we hadn’t even considered and gave us the tools to fix them before they became problems

Architecture & Design

Matt O’Connell

We didn’t know where to begin with sponsoring overseas talent. Immtell guided us from sponsorship licence application through to onboarding our first international UX designer. Their advice was always clear, timely and spot on.

Creative/Digital

Claire Thompson

We approached Immtell to help us secure a sponsor licence as we scaled our research team. Their insight and clear guidance made a complex process feel straightforward. Within weeks, we had our licence and were ready to hire globally.

Life Sciences

Olivia Hart

Thanks to Immtell, we now sponsor several international teachers across our network. They made a complex regulatory process easy to understand and implement. Highly recommended for the education sector.

Education

Rajiv Patel

Immtell took the stress out of sponsoring our new data scientist from India. From requesting our defined CoS to visa approval, every step was handled with professionalism and speed. A brilliant partner for any sponsor.

Financial Services

It’s been a game changer

"We needed help to build a team, Immtell helped us understand what we could and should do to recruit from overseas. It’s been a game changer for our property company.”

Richard Lee, Property Management

Louise Garner

Our sponsor licence audit with Immtell was a wake-up call. Gavin and the team helped us address gaps and gave us practical advice. We now feel completely confident if the Home Office were to knock on the door.

Renewable Energy

I don't have words...

I don't have words to thank Gavin and his team. I have been struggling to get my priority slot for past one month. But Gavin made it happen in just one day. It completely feels like magic come live. Thanks a lot Immtell team for your help. Do the same and fantastic work in future. All the best.

Anbu Arasan

Natalia Petrova

We’re a boutique firm that needed expert advice on sponsoring overseas legal professionals. Immtell’s support was invaluable, and their training helped us build confidence internally to manage our responsibilities.

Legal

Salma Bibi

The sponsor duties training delivered by Gavin at Immtell was engaging, practical and tailored to our team. It gave us peace of mind and helped us tighten up our internal checks.

MedTech

David Lin

We were struggling to get approval on our CoS requests until we started working with Gavin and Immtell. They helped us frame the justification clearly and get things over the line quickly. Gavin's understanding of Home Office expectations is second to none.

Engineering & Robotics

Adanna Okafor

Immtell supported us through our sponsor licence application at a time when we urgently needed to recruit care staff from overseas. The advice was practical, clear, and always tailored to our sector. Thanks to their help, we were able to bring in our first international recruits and continue growing our care team.

Domiciliary Care

Smooth & Fast Service

Gavin has been truly amazing in assisting me with my priority cos slots. I have been trying for more than 3 weeks to get one but couldn’t. Gavin helped me get it in very first attempt. It was lovely working with him. Definitely would recommend him if you want a smooth and fast service.

Damini Naidu

Turnaround incredibly quick!

We recently used Gavin's services for our business and he was fantastic, the turnaround was incredibly quick, and he was more than helpful throughout. Would absolutely recommend.

Hannah

James Flint

We’ve used Immtell for several Skilled Worker visa renewals. They’re proactive, responsive and never miss a detail. A reliable extension of our HR team.

Transport & Logistics

Gavin is AMAZING!

He showed up on time, he is extremely informed about the whole immigration process and provides valuable insights and provides a plethora of options for your specific case. Definitely would work with him again!

Alicia Cedron

Marcus Wright

We took advantage of Immtell’s remote compliance check and were blown away by the detail. The resulting report highlighted issues we hadn’t even considered and gave us the tools to fix them before they became problems

Architecture & Design

Matt O’Connell

We didn’t know where to begin with sponsoring overseas talent. Immtell guided us from sponsorship licence application through to onboarding our first international UX designer. Their advice was always clear, timely and spot on.

Creative/Digital

Claire Thompson

We approached Immtell to help us secure a sponsor licence as we scaled our research team. Their insight and clear guidance made a complex process feel straightforward. Within weeks, we had our licence and were ready to hire globally.

Life Sciences

Olivia Hart

Thanks to Immtell, we now sponsor several international teachers across our network. They made a complex regulatory process easy to understand and implement. Highly recommended for the education sector.

Education

Rajiv Patel

Immtell took the stress out of sponsoring our new data scientist from India. From requesting our defined CoS to visa approval, every step was handled with professionalism and speed. A brilliant partner for any sponsor.

Financial Services

It’s been a game changer

"We needed help to build a team, Immtell helped us understand what we could and should do to recruit from overseas. It’s been a game changer for our property company.”

Richard Lee, Property Management

Louise Garner

Our sponsor licence audit with Immtell was a wake-up call. Gavin and the team helped us address gaps and gave us practical advice. We now feel completely confident if the Home Office were to knock on the door.

Renewable Energy

I don't have words...

I don't have words to thank Gavin and his team. I have been struggling to get my priority slot for past one month. But Gavin made it happen in just one day. It completely feels like magic come live. Thanks a lot Immtell team for your help. Do the same and fantastic work in future. All the best.

Anbu Arasan

Natalia Petrova

We’re a boutique firm that needed expert advice on sponsoring overseas legal professionals. Immtell’s support was invaluable, and their training helped us build confidence internally to manage our responsibilities.

Legal

Salma Bibi

The sponsor duties training delivered by Gavin at Immtell was engaging, practical and tailored to our team. It gave us peace of mind and helped us tighten up our internal checks.

MedTech

David Lin

We were struggling to get approval on our CoS requests until we started working with Gavin and Immtell. They helped us frame the justification clearly and get things over the line quickly. Gavin's understanding of Home Office expectations is second to none.

Engineering & Robotics

Adanna Okafor

Immtell supported us through our sponsor licence application at a time when we urgently needed to recruit care staff from overseas. The advice was practical, clear, and always tailored to our sector. Thanks to their help, we were able to bring in our first international recruits and continue growing our care team.

Domiciliary Care

Smooth & Fast Service

Gavin has been truly amazing in assisting me with my priority cos slots. I have been trying for more than 3 weeks to get one but couldn’t. Gavin helped me get it in very first attempt. It was lovely working with him. Definitely would recommend him if you want a smooth and fast service.

Damini Naidu

Turnaround incredibly quick!

We recently used Gavin's services for our business and he was fantastic, the turnaround was incredibly quick, and he was more than helpful throughout. Would absolutely recommend.

Hannah

James Flint

We’ve used Immtell for several Skilled Worker visa renewals. They’re proactive, responsive and never miss a detail. A reliable extension of our HR team.

Transport & Logistics

Gavin is AMAZING!

He showed up on time, he is extremely informed about the whole immigration process and provides valuable insights and provides a plethora of options for your specific case. Definitely would work with him again!

Alicia Cedron

Marcus Wright

We took advantage of Immtell’s remote compliance check and were blown away by the detail. The resulting report highlighted issues we hadn’t even considered and gave us the tools to fix them before they became problems

Architecture & Design

Matt O’Connell

We didn’t know where to begin with sponsoring overseas talent. Immtell guided us from sponsorship licence application through to onboarding our first international UX designer. Their advice was always clear, timely and spot on.

Creative/Digital

Claire Thompson

We approached Immtell to help us secure a sponsor licence as we scaled our research team. Their insight and clear guidance made a complex process feel straightforward. Within weeks, we had our licence and were ready to hire globally.

Life Sciences

Olivia Hart

Thanks to Immtell, we now sponsor several international teachers across our network. They made a complex regulatory process easy to understand and implement. Highly recommended for the education sector.

Education

Rajiv Patel

Immtell took the stress out of sponsoring our new data scientist from India. From requesting our defined CoS to visa approval, every step was handled with professionalism and speed. A brilliant partner for any sponsor.

Financial Services

It’s been a game changer

"We needed help to build a team, Immtell helped us understand what we could and should do to recruit from overseas. It’s been a game changer for our property company.”

Richard Lee, Property Management

Louise Garner

Our sponsor licence audit with Immtell was a wake-up call. Gavin and the team helped us address gaps and gave us practical advice. We now feel completely confident if the Home Office were to knock on the door.

Renewable Energy

I don't have words...

I don't have words to thank Gavin and his team. I have been struggling to get my priority slot for past one month. But Gavin made it happen in just one day. It completely feels like magic come live. Thanks a lot Immtell team for your help. Do the same and fantastic work in future. All the best.

Anbu Arasan

Natalia Petrova

We’re a boutique firm that needed expert advice on sponsoring overseas legal professionals. Immtell’s support was invaluable, and their training helped us build confidence internally to manage our responsibilities.

Legal

Salma Bibi

The sponsor duties training delivered by Gavin at Immtell was engaging, practical and tailored to our team. It gave us peace of mind and helped us tighten up our internal checks.

MedTech

David Lin

We were struggling to get approval on our CoS requests until we started working with Gavin and Immtell. They helped us frame the justification clearly and get things over the line quickly. Gavin's understanding of Home Office expectations is second to none.

Engineering & Robotics

Adanna Okafor

Immtell supported us through our sponsor licence application at a time when we urgently needed to recruit care staff from overseas. The advice was practical, clear, and always tailored to our sector. Thanks to their help, we were able to bring in our first international recruits and continue growing our care team.

Domiciliary Care

Smooth & Fast Service

Gavin has been truly amazing in assisting me with my priority cos slots. I have been trying for more than 3 weeks to get one but couldn’t. Gavin helped me get it in very first attempt. It was lovely working with him. Definitely would recommend him if you want a smooth and fast service.

Damini Naidu

Turnaround incredibly quick!

We recently used Gavin's services for our business and he was fantastic, the turnaround was incredibly quick, and he was more than helpful throughout. Would absolutely recommend.

Hannah

James Flint

We’ve used Immtell for several Skilled Worker visa renewals. They’re proactive, responsive and never miss a detail. A reliable extension of our HR team.

Transport & Logistics

Gavin is AMAZING!

He showed up on time, he is extremely informed about the whole immigration process and provides valuable insights and provides a plethora of options for your specific case. Definitely would work with him again!

Alicia Cedron

Marcus Wright

We took advantage of Immtell’s remote compliance check and were blown away by the detail. The resulting report highlighted issues we hadn’t even considered and gave us the tools to fix them before they became problems

Architecture & Design

Matt O’Connell

We didn’t know where to begin with sponsoring overseas talent. Immtell guided us from sponsorship licence application through to onboarding our first international UX designer. Their advice was always clear, timely and spot on.

Creative/Digital

Claire Thompson

We approached Immtell to help us secure a sponsor licence as we scaled our research team. Their insight and clear guidance made a complex process feel straightforward. Within weeks, we had our licence and were ready to hire globally.

Life Sciences

Olivia Hart

Thanks to Immtell, we now sponsor several international teachers across our network. They made a complex regulatory process easy to understand and implement. Highly recommended for the education sector.

Education

Rajiv Patel

Immtell took the stress out of sponsoring our new data scientist from India. From requesting our defined CoS to visa approval, every step was handled with professionalism and speed. A brilliant partner for any sponsor.

Financial Services

It’s been a game changer

"We needed help to build a team, Immtell helped us understand what we could and should do to recruit from overseas. It’s been a game changer for our property company.”

Richard Lee, Property Management

Louise Garner

Our sponsor licence audit with Immtell was a wake-up call. Gavin and the team helped us address gaps and gave us practical advice. We now feel completely confident if the Home Office were to knock on the door.

Renewable Energy

I don't have words...

I don't have words to thank Gavin and his team. I have been struggling to get my priority slot for past one month. But Gavin made it happen in just one day. It completely feels like magic come live. Thanks a lot Immtell team for your help. Do the same and fantastic work in future. All the best.

Anbu Arasan

Natalia Petrova

We’re a boutique firm that needed expert advice on sponsoring overseas legal professionals. Immtell’s support was invaluable, and their training helped us build confidence internally to manage our responsibilities.

Legal

Salma Bibi

The sponsor duties training delivered by Gavin at Immtell was engaging, practical and tailored to our team. It gave us peace of mind and helped us tighten up our internal checks.

MedTech

David Lin

We were struggling to get approval on our CoS requests until we started working with Gavin and Immtell. They helped us frame the justification clearly and get things over the line quickly. Gavin's understanding of Home Office expectations is second to none.

Engineering & Robotics

Adanna Okafor

Immtell supported us through our sponsor licence application at a time when we urgently needed to recruit care staff from overseas. The advice was practical, clear, and always tailored to our sector. Thanks to their help, we were able to bring in our first international recruits and continue growing our care team.

Domiciliary Care

Smooth & Fast Service

Gavin has been truly amazing in assisting me with my priority cos slots. I have been trying for more than 3 weeks to get one but couldn’t. Gavin helped me get it in very first attempt. It was lovely working with him. Definitely would recommend him if you want a smooth and fast service.

Damini Naidu

Turnaround incredibly quick!

We recently used Gavin's services for our business and he was fantastic, the turnaround was incredibly quick, and he was more than helpful throughout. Would absolutely recommend.

Hannah

James Flint

We’ve used Immtell for several Skilled Worker visa renewals. They’re proactive, responsive and never miss a detail. A reliable extension of our HR team.

Transport & Logistics

Gavin is AMAZING!

He showed up on time, he is extremely informed about the whole immigration process and provides valuable insights and provides a plethora of options for your specific case. Definitely would work with him again!

Alicia Cedron

Marcus Wright

We took advantage of Immtell’s remote compliance check and were blown away by the detail. The resulting report highlighted issues we hadn’t even considered and gave us the tools to fix them before they became problems

Architecture & Design

Matt O’Connell

We didn’t know where to begin with sponsoring overseas talent. Immtell guided us from sponsorship licence application through to onboarding our first international UX designer. Their advice was always clear, timely and spot on.

Creative/Digital

Claire Thompson

We approached Immtell to help us secure a sponsor licence as we scaled our research team. Their insight and clear guidance made a complex process feel straightforward. Within weeks, we had our licence and were ready to hire globally.

Life Sciences

Olivia Hart

Thanks to Immtell, we now sponsor several international teachers across our network. They made a complex regulatory process easy to understand and implement. Highly recommended for the education sector.

Education

Rajiv Patel

Immtell took the stress out of sponsoring our new data scientist from India. From requesting our defined CoS to visa approval, every step was handled with professionalism and speed. A brilliant partner for any sponsor.

Financial Services

It’s been a game changer

"We needed help to build a team, Immtell helped us understand what we could and should do to recruit from overseas. It’s been a game changer for our property company.”

Richard Lee, Property Management

Louise Garner

Our sponsor licence audit with Immtell was a wake-up call. Gavin and the team helped us address gaps and gave us practical advice. We now feel completely confident if the Home Office were to knock on the door.

Renewable Energy

I don't have words...

I don't have words to thank Gavin and his team. I have been struggling to get my priority slot for past one month. But Gavin made it happen in just one day. It completely feels like magic come live. Thanks a lot Immtell team for your help. Do the same and fantastic work in future. All the best.

Anbu Arasan

Natalia Petrova

We’re a boutique firm that needed expert advice on sponsoring overseas legal professionals. Immtell’s support was invaluable, and their training helped us build confidence internally to manage our responsibilities.

Legal

Salma Bibi

The sponsor duties training delivered by Gavin at Immtell was engaging, practical and tailored to our team. It gave us peace of mind and helped us tighten up our internal checks.

MedTech

David Lin

We were struggling to get approval on our CoS requests until we started working with Gavin and Immtell. They helped us frame the justification clearly and get things over the line quickly. Gavin's understanding of Home Office expectations is second to none.

Engineering & Robotics

Adanna Okafor

Immtell supported us through our sponsor licence application at a time when we urgently needed to recruit care staff from overseas. The advice was practical, clear, and always tailored to our sector. Thanks to their help, we were able to bring in our first international recruits and continue growing our care team.

Domiciliary Care

Smooth & Fast Service

Gavin has been truly amazing in assisting me with my priority cos slots. I have been trying for more than 3 weeks to get one but couldn’t. Gavin helped me get it in very first attempt. It was lovely working with him. Definitely would recommend him if you want a smooth and fast service.

Damini Naidu

Turnaround incredibly quick!

We recently used Gavin's services for our business and he was fantastic, the turnaround was incredibly quick, and he was more than helpful throughout. Would absolutely recommend.

Hannah

James Flint

We’ve used Immtell for several Skilled Worker visa renewals. They’re proactive, responsive and never miss a detail. A reliable extension of our HR team.

Transport & Logistics

Gavin is AMAZING!

He showed up on time, he is extremely informed about the whole immigration process and provides valuable insights and provides a plethora of options for your specific case. Definitely would work with him again!

Alicia Cedron

Marcus Wright

We took advantage of Immtell’s remote compliance check and were blown away by the detail. The resulting report highlighted issues we hadn’t even considered and gave us the tools to fix them before they became problems

Architecture & Design

Matt O’Connell

We didn’t know where to begin with sponsoring overseas talent. Immtell guided us from sponsorship licence application through to onboarding our first international UX designer. Their advice was always clear, timely and spot on.

Creative/Digital

Claire Thompson

We approached Immtell to help us secure a sponsor licence as we scaled our research team. Their insight and clear guidance made a complex process feel straightforward. Within weeks, we had our licence and were ready to hire globally.

Life Sciences

Olivia Hart

Thanks to Immtell, we now sponsor several international teachers across our network. They made a complex regulatory process easy to understand and implement. Highly recommended for the education sector.

Education

Rajiv Patel

Immtell took the stress out of sponsoring our new data scientist from India. From requesting our defined CoS to visa approval, every step was handled with professionalism and speed. A brilliant partner for any sponsor.

Financial Services

It’s been a game changer

"We needed help to build a team, Immtell helped us understand what we could and should do to recruit from overseas. It’s been a game changer for our property company.”

Richard Lee, Property Management

Louise Garner

Our sponsor licence audit with Immtell was a wake-up call. Gavin and the team helped us address gaps and gave us practical advice. We now feel completely confident if the Home Office were to knock on the door.

Renewable Energy

I don't have words...

I don't have words to thank Gavin and his team. I have been struggling to get my priority slot for past one month. But Gavin made it happen in just one day. It completely feels like magic come live. Thanks a lot Immtell team for your help. Do the same and fantastic work in future. All the best.

Anbu Arasan

Natalia Petrova

We’re a boutique firm that needed expert advice on sponsoring overseas legal professionals. Immtell’s support was invaluable, and their training helped us build confidence internally to manage our responsibilities.

Legal

Salma Bibi

The sponsor duties training delivered by Gavin at Immtell was engaging, practical and tailored to our team. It gave us peace of mind and helped us tighten up our internal checks.

MedTech

David Lin

We were struggling to get approval on our CoS requests until we started working with Gavin and Immtell. They helped us frame the justification clearly and get things over the line quickly. Gavin's understanding of Home Office expectations is second to none.

Engineering & Robotics

Adanna Okafor

Immtell supported us through our sponsor licence application at a time when we urgently needed to recruit care staff from overseas. The advice was practical, clear, and always tailored to our sector. Thanks to their help, we were able to bring in our first international recruits and continue growing our care team.

Domiciliary Care

Smooth & Fast Service

Gavin has been truly amazing in assisting me with my priority cos slots. I have been trying for more than 3 weeks to get one but couldn’t. Gavin helped me get it in very first attempt. It was lovely working with him. Definitely would recommend him if you want a smooth and fast service.

Damini Naidu

Turnaround incredibly quick!

We recently used Gavin's services for our business and he was fantastic, the turnaround was incredibly quick, and he was more than helpful throughout. Would absolutely recommend.

Hannah

James Flint

We’ve used Immtell for several Skilled Worker visa renewals. They’re proactive, responsive and never miss a detail. A reliable extension of our HR team.

Transport & Logistics

Gavin is AMAZING!

He showed up on time, he is extremely informed about the whole immigration process and provides valuable insights and provides a plethora of options for your specific case. Definitely would work with him again!

Alicia Cedron