SMS Level 1 & 2 User Training for Employers
Enable Level 1 and Level 2 users to confidently navigate and perform basic operations within the UKVI SMS (Sponsor Management System)
Description
CPD accredited training course - 3.5 points
The Sponsor Management System (SMS) is notoriously unforgiving.
A single administrative slip, an incorrect SOC code, a missed reporting deadline, or a data entry error, is often all it takes to trigger a Home Office audit or, worse, the suspension of your license.
Our intensive half-day workshop is designed to turn that compliance risk into operational excellence. Whether you are a new user or an experienced staff member looking for a refresher, this session provides the practical, hands-on skills needed to manage your sponsorship duties efficiently and accurately.
Multi-delegate discounts: 10% off for 2 places | 20% off for 3+ places
Why This Training is Critical for Your Team
Navigating the UKVI portal shouldn't feel like guesswork. This course goes beyond the user manual to provide real-world scenarios and troubleshooting tips that save your HR team hours of frustration.
Learning Outcomes
- Navigate with Ease: Master the SMS dashboard, core modules, and reporting functionalities.
- Audit-Proof Your Records: Understand the difference between mandatory and optional reporting to ensure you meet all Home Office requirements.
- Error-Free Data Entry: Learn the "Golden Rules" for creating Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) and managing case histories.
- Troubleshoot Like a Pro: Resolve login issues, system timeouts, and browser compatibility problems without stress.
- Quality Assurance: Implement internal verification procedures that satisfy UKVI compliance officers.
Who the Course is For
This course is specifically designed for UK-based employers, including:
- New SMS Users requiring a foundational understanding of the system.
- HR Professionals & Administrative Staff responsible for day-to-day sponsorship management.
- Level 1 & Level 2 Users who want to ensure their processes are fully compliant with the latest UKVI updates.
Agenda
09:30 Welcome, housekeeping, aims & objectives for the day
.PNG)
09:35 SMS System Overview
What is the SMS System?
- Purpose and role within UKVI operations
- How SMS fits into the broader immigration process
- System architecture and security requirements
- User roles
Key Features Overview:
- Dashboard navigation
- Core modules and functionalities
- Reporting capabilities
- Integration with other UKVI systems
10:30 Comfort break
10:45 System Fundamentals
- Menu structure and layout
- COS allocation and management
- Tips for reporting activities
11:45 Comfort break
12:00 Core Functions
Case Management Basics:
- Viewing case information
- Understanding case statuses
- Basic case searching techniques
- Reading case histories and notes
Data Entry and Updates:
- Creating new cases in SMS
- Mandatory vs. optional fields
- Data validation and error handling
- Saving and submitting information
12:45 Troubleshooting & Support
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Login problems and password resets
- System timeout procedures
- Browser compatibility requirements
- When to escalate technical issues
Quality Assurance:
- Data accuracy requirements
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Review and verification procedures
- Maintaining consistency between SMS and HR records
- Audit trail considerations
12:55 Q&A Session and Next Steps
13:00 End of training course
FAQs
What does BFI specialise in?
BFI provides expert-led training in HR compliance, employment law, immigration for employers, union relations, workplace inclusion, and AI and talent solutions.
Who typically attends your courses?
Attendees include HR managers, legal teams, compliance officers, operations leaders, and public sector employers.
Are your trainers practitioners?
Yes. All trainers are experienced specialists; we feature practitioners from the public and private sectors as well as lawyers, policy advisers, former regulators, and consultants.
How do I book a course?
Choose an event on the website and click Register. You can pay online with a credit card or request an invoice.
Do you accept purchase orders?
Yes. Public and private-sector organisations may use PO numbers. These can be added during the registration process, or can be retrospectively added to am invoice if the place has been booked already.
We need to set you up as a Supplier, can you complete a form or send me over your company information?
Yes, we can do either; please contact us via info@bfi.co.uk
Can I get a PO number added to our invoice?
Yes, please send details through to info@bfi.co.uk or reply to us using your confirmation email
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes. Discounts for multiple bookings are automatically applied at checkout. For groups of over ten, it may be more cost-effective to run the course in-house. Call 01983 861133 for details
Can I transfer my place to another date or colleague?
Yes. Substitutions are free, and transfers are typically allowed within a set timeframe.
What is your cancellation policy?
BFI follows standard UK training-industry cancellation terms.
How are online courses delivered?
Training is delivered live via Zoom with interactive Q\&A and case-based discussion.
Will I receive slides and supporting materials?
Yes. Attendees receive slides, templates (where relevant), and many other useful documents and links.
Will I receive a copy of the event recording?
Our monthly subscription and webinar clients receive recordings of the live sessions; otherwise we do not record our courses to encourage confidential discussion and questions under the Chatham House Rule
What time zone are online events delivered in?
All events are delivered in UTC / London time unless otherwise stated
What is included in in-person events?
Full-day training includes refreshments, full documentation which is emailed prior to the event and networking opportunities.
Are your venues accessible?
Yes. All venues are fully accessible.
Are your courses CPD-certified?
Many courses are accredited by The CPD Certification Service.
Can I ask questions about my organisation’s situation?
Yes. Trainers answer questions during the session and can respond afterward.
Will the training help us prepare for an audit?
Yes, on our audit courses you will learn what triggers visits, what officers look for, and how to evidence compliance.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. All attendees receive a digital certificate of course completion.
Do you offer private or in-house training?
Yes. All courses can be tailored for your team. Visit https://bfi.co.uk/team-training/
Do you offer consultancy?
Yes. BFI offers policy reviews, audit preparation, HR compliance support, and workforce advisory services.
What our delegates say
"Finally, a course that explains the SMS in plain English. I feel much more confident managing our CoS allocations now." – HR Manager, Tech Sector