This section describes the new Highly Trusted Sponsor Scheme for sponsors under Tier 4 (General) of the points-based system, and explains how existing and prospective Tier 4 (General) sponsors can apply to become highly trusted sponsors.

The Highly Trusted Sponsor Scheme is not currently available for sponsors under Tier 2 or Tier 5 of the points-based system.

The Highly Trusted sponsor licence is a new category of licence. It will be awarded to Tier 4 sponsors if they have a proven track record of recruiting genuine students who comply with the UK's immigration rules.

The register of Highly Trusted sponsors will go live on 6 April 2010.

What is the Highly Trusted Sponsor Scheme?

Under Tier 4 of the points-based system, all sponsors receive an 'A' or 'B' rating. The new Highly Trusted sponsor category is a further segmentation of this sponsor rating system. It is designed to identify those sponsors who have the highest levels of compliance with their sponsor obligations, and whose students are showing the greatest compliance with the terms of their visa or permission to stay.

Highly Trusted sponsors will be expected to meet the published criteria in full throughout the period when they hold a Highly Trusted sponsor licence. In return they will be given a number of additional freedoms and benefits for the duration of their registration, and will be offered new services.