Employers and sponsors: make a query to the business helpdesk

This guide explains how employers and sponsors in the UK can use the business helpdesk to ask questions about their sponsor duties, licence, or specific cases. It covers who can use the helpdesk, what information to have ready, and how to make a query effectively.

If you hold a sponsor licence in the UK, there will be times when you need to ask UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) a question — about a specific worker, a change in your organisation, or your sponsor duties. This guide shows you how to use the business helpdesk to get the answers you need.

At a glance

• For employers and sponsors with a sponsor licence
• Published 14 August 2026
• Official source: GOV.UK
• Contact method: see official guidance

What Is the Business Helpdesk for Employers and Sponsors?

The business helpdesk is a UKVI service for employers and sponsors who hold a sponsor licence. Use it when you have a query about your sponsorship duties or a specific case.

It is not for general immigration questions. It is for questions about your sponsor licence, your duties as a sponsor, or the workers you sponsor. If you are not a sponsor, use the general contact routes on GOV.UK.

This guidance was published on 14 August 2026 and is the official source for making a query. You can read the full publication on GOV.UK: Employers and sponsors: make a query to the business helpdesk.

Who Can Use the Business Helpdesk?

You can use the business helpdesk if you are an employer or a sponsor. In practice, that means you have a sponsor licence or are in the process of applying for one. The helpdesk is for people who manage sponsorship within their organisation.

If you are an individual worker or an applicant, the business helpdesk is not for you. Use the standard contact routes for visa and immigration enquiries.

The guidance does not list specific roles, but it is safe to assume that anyone with a legitimate sponsor-related query can use it. That includes HR staff, legal representatives, and people responsible for sponsor compliance.

What Information Should You Have Ready Before You Make a Query?

Before you contact the business helpdesk, gather the information you will need. This will make the process faster and more efficient.

• Your sponsor licence number.
• The name and details of the worker or case you are asking about.
• Any reference numbers you have received from UKVI.
• Your own contact details, including an email address.

The guidance does not specify exactly what you must provide, but having these details ready is standard practice. If you do not have a licence number, you may still be able to ask a general question about becoming a sponsor.

How to Make a Query to the Business Helpdesk

To make a query, follow the instructions in the official guidance. The guidance is the authoritative source for the current process. Here are the general steps:

1. Read the official guidance carefully: Employers and sponsors: make a query to the business helpdesk.
2. Prepare the information listed above.
3. Use the contact method provided in the guidance. This may be an online form, an email address, or a phone number. The guidance will tell you which one to use.
4. Submit your query. Make sure you include all the required details.
5. Keep a copy of your query and any reference number you receive.

The guidance does not state the exact contact method in the facts we have. You must check the official page to see the current contact details.

What Happens After You Submit Your Query?

After you submit your query, UKVI will review it and respond. The response time is not stated in the guidance we have. It may depend on the complexity of your question and the volume of queries they receive.

Monitor the email address you provided. If you do not receive a response within a reasonable time, you may need to follow up. The guidance may tell you how to do that.

Keep a record of your query. This is useful if you need to refer to it later or if you need to escalate the issue.

Tips for a Successful Query

Here are some practical tips to help you get a useful response from the business helpdesk.

• Be clear and specific about your question.
• Provide all the information requested in the guidance.
• Use a professional tone.
• Do not send multiple queries about the same issue. This can cause delays.
• Check the guidance regularly for updates. The contact process may change.

Remember, the business helpdesk is there to help you. A well-prepared query is more likely to get a quick and accurate answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I contact the business helpdesk?

The contact method is not stated in the facts we have. You must check the official guidance on GOV.UK: Employers and sponsors: make a query to the business helpdesk. The guidance will tell you the current email, phone number, or online form.

Can I use the business helpdesk if I am not a sponsor?

No. The business helpdesk is for employers and sponsors. If you are an individual applicant or worker, use the general contact routes for visa and immigration enquiries.

What information do I need to provide when making a query?

You should have your sponsor licence number, details of the case or worker, any reference numbers, and your contact details. The official guidance may list specific requirements.

Before you apply

If you are an employer or sponsor, the business helpdesk is your direct line to UKVI for sponsor-related questions. To make a query, start by reading the official guidance: Employers and sponsors: make a query to the business helpdesk. Prepare your information, follow the instructions, and keep a record of your query. This will help you get the answers you need and stay compliant with your sponsor duties.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.