Ensuring your workers are eligible to work in the UK

How to apply for a work permit

A work permit application has to be for a named person and for a specific job, normally on a full-time basis. The permit holder cannot transfer a work permit to a different job or to work for a different employer. If a work permit holder wishes to change employer, the new employer should apply for a fresh work permit.

Application forms
For an initial Business and Commercial work permit you should use form WP1. Download form WP1 for a standard first work permit from the Work Permits (UK) website (DOC).

There are special forms for certain categories, such as sports people, entertainers and student internships. Find all work permit application forms at the Work Permits (UK) website

Timing of applications
A work permit has to be issued before a potential overseas employee can enter the UK. Nationals of certain countries also need the permit to get an exit visa to leave their own country and/or an entry visa to the UK.

Therefore you need to allow enough time, not only for you to get the work permit to the person but also for them to meet any visa requirements.

Visas
An applicant who qualifies for a work permit is not guaranteed a visa or entry to the UK. Visa applications may be sent to British embassies, high commissions or consulates. See information on visa requirements on the UK visas website.

Cost of a work permit
Since 2 July 2004, the charge for both Work Permit and Sector Based Scheme applications is a flat rate fee of £153 per application. The new fee applies to all applications including extensions and change of employment.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Check entitlement to work in the UK
• When to check documents and how long to keep them
• Who doesn't need permission to work?
• Understand the work permit scheme
• Check if an applicant qualifies for a work permit
• How to apply for a work permit
• Extend or change existing work permits
• Employees from the European Economic Area