UK Work Permit Guideline Guideline
If your current visa does not allow you to work in Britain but you wish to, then apply for a UK Work Permit. If successful you will be able to live and work in the UK for up to three years. UK Work Permits have now been replaced by Tier 2 of the Points based system which requires at least 50 points. If you are considered a medium or highly skilled worker coming to work in the UK, you will require a Tier 2 Visa or UK Work Permit and you must have a sponsor in Britain who will employ you.
Employing for a Tier 2 Visa is a process which must be completed by the employer, with the sponsoring company applying on behalf of the candidate. The candidate will then be assessed by a points based system. In order for the candidate to qualify for a Work Permit they must get at least 50 points.
Duration of a UK Work Permit (Tier 2 Visa)
A work permit is initially granted for two years, however after this time an extension may be granted. After five years the candidate may then apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Benefits of a UK Work Permit (Tier 2 Visa)
If you work in the UK for 5 years you can then apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain for more long term residence in the UK, you could then become a permanent resident. Also if you qualify for a UK Work Permit, you could work and study in the UK with no restrictions. With a UK Work Permit you are entitled to come and go freely from the UK as well.
With a Tier 2 Work Permit it is possible for candidates to change their job but the sponsorship process will need to be repeated.
UK Work Permit (Tier 2 Visa) Eligibility
For Employers
Employers must ensure that the candidate with the Work Permit is fit to fill the position of employment they are required for. Employers will require a sponsorship licence to which they will be awarded a level A or level B. A or B sponsor ratings are awarded to all sponsorship licenses. If awarded a B rating, the UKBA has based this on a risk assessment and felt that the sponsor was unable to fulfil their role and that they pose a threat to UK immigration. Any sponsor on an A rating can be demoted to a B rating and if this is the case they are given an action plan to which they must work towards to regain their A rating sponsorship license.
For Employees
Employees must gain at least 50 points to qualify for a Work Permit. Candidates will be assessed by their qualifications and prospective earnings.
Points are awarded for the following;
Qualifications
- A PhD qualification = 15 points
- A Master's Degree = 10 points
- A Bachelor's Degree = 10 points
- An NVQ level 3 qualification = 5 points
Prospective Earnings
- In Excess of £24,000+ = 20 Points
- £22,000-2,999 =15 points
- £20,000-21.999 = 10 points
- £17,000-19,999 = 5 points
Dependants
If the candidate continues living and working in the UK for five years with a Work Permit they may be able to become a permanent UK citizen. Spouse and dependent immigration are provided for under this Visa. Your spouse or unmarried partner and any dependent children may join you in the country with the same benefits as UK Citizens.
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