Work Permits

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UK Work Permits and HSMP

A work permit is a legal permission that is issued to the UK employer by the Home Office, which allows an individual to be employed in a full time, skilled post. The employer must make an application to the Home Office for permission to employ you in this role. We will provide detailed advice and guidance on what documents are required to support your case.

What is the application process for UK work permits?

An application can be made either from within the UK or from outside the UK. The decision as to where you need to make this application will depend on your current immigration status and when it is due to expire. Please complete our INDIVIDUAL ASSESSMENT FORM for a free assessment on whether your case has a realistic chance of success.

Applying from within the UK

1. The employer must apply for UK Work Permits based on the business and commercial issues

2. The individual must apply for Further Leave to Remain [FLR] to update and extend your immigration status to take up this employment.

You are only permitted to 'switch' status in certain categories. We can ensure you are advised correctly from the start and avoid having your FLR application refused.

Applying from outside the UK

1. The employer must apply for a UK Work Permit based on the business and commercial issues

2. The individuals must apply for Entry Clearance at the nearest UK embassy to gain permission to enter the UK and take up this employment What skills do I need to meet the scheme? In order to meet the work permit scheme, you must be able to demonstrate that you have at least one of the following skills, which is required to fill the post.

• UK Degree or equivalent
• HND [Higher National Diploma] or equivalent that is not relevant to the post, plus one years relevant experience
• HND [Higher National Diploma] that is relevant to the post
• At least 3 years specialist experience at NVQ [National Vocational Qualification] level 3 or above

If you are applying to fill a senior or specialist post, you should be able to provide copies of qualification certificates and detailed employment references to support your application. If you need to be registered with a UK professional organisation [GMC, RIBA, for example] copies of registration certificates should be provided.

When to contact us

You need a UK job offer before we can apply for a work permit. If you need to know whether your skills qualifications and experience are up to it, e-mail your CV to enquiries@permits2work.com

Alternatively, if you do not have a job offer, you may qualify for the HSMP permit on the basis of your skills, qualifications, past earnings to date. This type of permit is issued to the individual and does not require a job offer from a UK employer. However, it does require you to demonstrate that you meet a minimum of 65 points with original documentation. Check your eligibility on our HSMP points calculator.

Work Permits and the UK Immigration issues that surround them are often complex. If you seek professional advice at an early stage, you will benefit from the experience and knowledge of making successful applications, ensuring your application stands the best chance for success.

What do I need to do next?

1. Complete our Individuals Assessment Form This will direct you to the PERMITS2WORK website
2. Send us your current C.V
3. Talk to your employer