Why a Mock Audit Matters
UKVI can carry out a compliance visit at any time — announced or unannounced — for as long as you hold a Sponsor Licence, not just when you first apply. A mock audit replicates what a real Home Office compliance officer checks, so gaps are identified and fixed on your own timeline rather than during a live visit that could put your licence rating at risk.
What a Mock Audit Reviews
- Right-to-work checking processes and record-keeping for every sponsored worker
- Recruitment and job description records supporting each Certificate of Sponsorship
- Attendance, absence and contact-detail monitoring systems
- SMS reporting history — confirming required changes were reported within the correct deadlines
- Suitability and awareness of nominated key personnel
- Salary and working-hours records against what was stated on each CoS
- General HR policies covering sponsorship duties
What You Get From a Britlaw Mock Audit
- A structured review against the same criteria UKVI applies at a real compliance visit
- A written report ranking findings by risk — from minor record-keeping gaps to issues that could trigger licence downgrade or suspension
- Practical, prioritised recommendations your team can action immediately
- Optional follow-up support implementing the fixes and re-testing before your next renewal cycle or anticipated visit
Solicitor's Insight
Most compliance failings we find during a mock audit aren't dramatic — they're small, accumulated record-keeping gaps that look very different when a Home Office officer is the one reviewing them. Catching these early is far cheaper than a licence downgrade.
See our Sponsor Licence Compliance overview for the full range of ongoing compliance support we provide, or our guide to what happens if enforcement action is taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have a mock audit?
We generally recommend an annual review at minimum, plus an additional review before any anticipated Home Office visit or after significant organisational change.
What happens if the mock audit finds problems?
You get a written, risk-ranked report with practical recommendations, and can choose to have us support implementation before a real visit occurs.
Does a mock audit guarantee I'll pass a real compliance visit?
No audit can guarantee an outcome, but a mock audit significantly reduces the risk of being caught out by issues you weren't aware of.
Who carries out the audit?
Our audits are carried out by solicitors experienced in sponsor licence compliance and Home Office enforcement action.