An immigration lawyer can help an employer assess whether it is likely to meet the requirements for a sponsor licence and prepare the application and supporting documents. They may also advise on sponsor duties, record-keeping, right-to-work checks and how to respond if UK Visas and Immigration raises questions or carries out a compliance visit. Legal advice is not compulsory, but professional guidance can be useful where the business is unfamiliar with the rules or has previously had an application refused. Consider using a solicitor regulated by the SRA and check the latest requirements on GOV.UK, as the decision rests with UK Visas and Immigration.