File check – recognised sponsor IND
As a recognized sponsor, you must comply with the IND’s duty of care, administration, and information requirements. Our file check allows you to see immediately whether your files and payroll administration are in order. This helps you avoid fines, warnings, or even the withdrawal of your recognition as a sponsor.
What is a file check for recognised sponsors?
The IND can subject your organization to an inspection visit or file review at any time. With a file review, we assess the status of your files: are all documents present, is the payroll administration correct, and have notifications been processed correctly?
This way, you know exactly where you stand and can demonstrably prepare for an IND inspection as part of the recognized reference program.
Why is file verification important for recognised sponsors?
The IND may request your files and records at any time during an inspection visit or file review. If shortcomings are found in your compliance with your duty of care, administrative obligations, or duty to provide information, this can have serious consequences:
⚠️ Suspension or revocation of your recognition as a sponsor (for up to 5 years)
⚠️ Revocation of residence permits for highly skilled migrants or researchers
⚠️ Warning or administrative fine for violation of obligations
⚠️ Costs and reputational damage in the event of the return or deportation of employees
A file check prevents minor errors from having major consequences. It demonstrates that your organization acts reliably and carefully in its supervision of recognised sponsors.
How does our IND file check for recognised sponsors work?
Our approach is clear and transparent. We guide you step by step and ensure that you know exactly where your organization stands.
Our 4-step approach:
1. Inventory – we collect and assess the relevant files (highly skilled migrants, researchers, students).
2. Check – we assess the core obligations: duty of care, administrative obligations, and duty to provide information, including salary criteria and notifications to the IND.
3. Analysis & reporting – you will receive an overview of findings, risks, and specific areas for improvement.
4. Discussion & advice – in a personal meeting, we will provide recommendations for structural improvements to your processes.
During the file review, we examine the same elements that the IND assesses during an inspection visit.
This means you can be sure that our assessment is fully in line with what the IND expects in practice.
What are the benefits of file verification for recognised sponsors?
A file check is more than just finding errors.
It gives your organization insight and greater certainty.
The main advantages:
✅ Greater certainty – you have all the knowledge you need to ensure that your files and administration meet the requirements.
✅ Prevention of sanctions – you reduce the risk of warnings, fines, or withdrawal of your accreditation.
✅ Peace of mind and clarity – you have a clear understanding of where you stand and what improvements may be needed.
✅ Stronger internal processes – our recommendations help you to structurally embed your obligations.
✅ Reliable image – you demonstrate that your organization acts carefully and in a future-proof manner, as expected by the IND.
Frequently asked questions about file checks for recognised sponsors
What does the IND check with recognised sponsors?
During an inspection visit or file review, the IND pays particular attention to compliance with the duty of care, administrative obligations, and information requirements.
Salary criteria and timely notifications are also checked.
How often does the IND carry out inspection visits?
The IND can schedule an inspection visit at any time. There is no set frequency: this depends on risk profile, signals, or random checks. Regular internal file checks help you to be prepared.
What happens if my files are not in order?
In the event of shortcomings, the IND may issue a warning or impose a fine. Serious violations will result in suspension or withdrawal of recognition as a sponsor and possibly withdrawal of residence permits.
How do I prepare for an IND inspection visit?
By regularly checking your files internally and retaining the correct evidence. With our file check, you know in advance whether your administration meets the requirements and you avoid surprises.
Is file verification mandatory for recognised sponsors?
An internal file check is not legally required, but it is the best way to comply with your obligations and limit the risk of sanctions. The duty of care actually requires you to keep your own records in order.
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