CoS Status Guide for SMS Managers

By UK Visas on Aug 7, 2024

If you manage a Sponsor Licence, you know it can be challenging to navigate the twelve different manuals and adhere to the Immigration Rules and Appendices.

To help you I thought I might share a snippet of the guidance.

CoS status

The table below shows each status which can apply to a CoS.

As Shown in SMS	Meaning
Work in Progress	The CoS is still in ‘draft’ form as one or more mandatory details have yet to be completed.
Ready to Go	All mandatory fields are complete, and the CoS is ready to be assigned to an individual.
Assigned	The CoS has been assigned to an individual and is ready to be used in support of an application for leave to enter or remain.
Withdrawn	You have used the ‘Manage live CoS’ function to withdraw the CoS.
Used	The CoS has been used in support of an individual’s application for leave to enter or remain.
Expired	The individual has not made an application for leave to enter or remain by the expiry date of the CoS. A new CoS is required. OR: The individual has applied by the CoS expiry date, but we have not considered their application before that date. In this case, no action is required on your part; we will change the status of the CoS from EXPIRED to USED when the application is considered.
Cancelled	The CoS has been cancelled as your licence has been revoked or has expired, or you have surrendered the relevant route / your whole licence prior to the CoS being used.

With our expert guidance and support, you can navigate the complexities of the sponsorship system and successfully obtain a Sponsor Licence, enabling you to hire international employees without having to manage the SMS system alone and unsupported!