Visa Compliance Officer

Aston University; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading higher education institution in Birmingham seeks an experienced Visa Compliance Officer. The role involves managing the Student Sponsor Licence, providing expert advice on visa matters, and ensuring compliance with UKVI regulations. Candidates must already have the legal right to work in the UK. This position plays a critical role in supporting international students and improving compliance processes.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of UKVI regulations in a Higher Education setting.
• Experience with CAS assessment, financial checks, and reporting obligations.
• Proven background in audits and compliance monitoring.

Responsibilities

• Manage the University’s Student Sponsor Licence.
• Provide advice on student visa and immigration matters.
• Monitor compliance responsibilities and changes.

Skills

Knowledge of UKVI regulations

Experience with CAS assessment

Strong auditing skills

Leadership experience

Organisational skills

Job description

Aston University is looking for an experienced Visa Compliance Officer to join our dynamic team. In this senior role, you’ll be at the heart of ensuring the University remains fully compliant with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) regulations.

You’ll work across departments, providing expert advice, overseeing key compliance processes, and helping us continually improve the student visa experience.

What You’ll Do

• Manage the University’s Student Sponsor Licence, making sure we meet all UKVI requirements.
• Provide clear, practical advice on student visa and immigration matters to colleagues and teams across the University.
• Monitor compliance responsibilities and keep on top of regulatory and policy changes.
• Audit visa documentation, check CAS eligibility, and support accurate decision-making for international students.
• Track attendance, support UKVI reporting, and ensure robust data analysis to identify risks.
• Lead on policy updates, process improvements, and support/coach staff on visa regulations.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong knowledge of UKVI regulations in a Higher Education setting.
• Experience with CAS assessment, financial checks, and reporting obligations.
• Proven background in audits and compliance monitoring.
• Skilled in developing and maintaining policies and procedures.
• Leadership or coaching experience within a compliance or immigration role.
• Excellent problem-solving, organisational and decision-making skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities.

Please note that we are unable to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for this role. Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the UK. Candidates with valid permission to work in other immigration categories are welcome to apply.

Join us at Aston University and play a vital role in supporting international students and ensuring we meet the highest standards of compliance.

This role is subject to a satisfactory enhanced/standard DBS check.

This role does not meet the eligibility criteria for new applicants to the Skilled Worker visa route.