Work Permits

If you are a worker from outside the European Economic Area and want work in the UK you will need a permission from the Home Office and once approved, depending on your current status in the UK or if you live outside of the UK you will also be required to obtain a visa from a British consulate before traveling to the UK to commence your employment.

There are three types of work permits namely Tier I, Tier II and TWES visas. Below is a summary of the different permits and the immigration conditions attached to each permit.

Tier I
This type of permit is issued when your prospective employer is able to demonstrate that the position is;
  • part of a transfer within a multinational companies,

  • a senior board level posting,

  • a posting that involves substantial investment in the UK,

  • or, a posting to a position deemed to be a “shortage occupation” by the UK government. Click here for a list of “shortage occupations.”

Tier II
Tier II permits are issued when the employer has tried to recruit within the EU however unable to find a suitable candidate. In order to be eligible, you will need to demonstrate that you have at least one the following;
  • a degree level qualification; or

  • HND; or

  • at least 3yrs work experience at a senior level in a relevant occupation.

TWES
Training and Work Experience Scheme visas are applicable for candidates who have been offered a period of work experience and training in a multinational company and you are able to demonstrate that the UK based training will facilitate your future employment within the company based overseas.

Immigration conditions
Tier I and Tier II permits can be issued for a maximum period of 5 years. Throughout this period, you are not permit to change employment without securing another work permit from the Home Office. You must be primarily based in the UK although overseas travel for your employment is permitted and you must be registered for tax and national insurance payments. Under no circumstances should you seek recourse to public funds and if you are convicted for a criminal matter, this will have an impact on any future applications.

Prior to the expiry of five years in the UK as a work permit holder, you are entitled to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), ie permanent residency. NB: from April 4th 2007, a new English language test is being introduced which all applicants must pass prior to submitting an application for ILR.

TWES permits are issued for a maximum period of two years. After this time period has elapsed you are expected to leave the UK and pursue employment in your chosen field. Under the current rules, you cannot seek to switch from a TWES visa onto a full Work Permit. As with Tier I and II, during your period of training / work experience you must be primarily based in the UK although overseas travel for your employment is permitted and you must be registered for tax and national insurance payments. Under no circumstances should you seek recourse to public funds and if you are convicted for a criminal matter, this will have an impact on any future applications.

If you would like further information please contact us.








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