Skilled work permits

An application for a permit for a worker in any other category will be considered on the employer’s ability to satisfy the criteria laid down in the Immigration (Work Permit) Rules. Each application is considered on its merits but applications will generally only succeed if the employment is in an area where there is a critical shortage of skilled labour. In addition, permits may be granted to persons with individual skills coming for specific short term purposes, e.g. entertainers.

For prospective employers, further guidance notes are available here.

A work permit is issued for the duration of the vacancy up to a maximum period of 3 years. The expectation is that during this period the employer will continue to seek to fill the post on a more permanent basis by finding someone who is free of permit restrictions, training them if necessary. In exceptional circumstances, with the approval of the Home Affairs Minister, a permit may be issued for up to 5 years.
In addition to a work permit, a non European Economic Area national seeking entry for more than 6 months also needs to obtain an entry clearance from a British Embassy or High Commission abroad, before arrival.

Click here for Skilled Work permit application

Find out here if you need an entry clearance.