There are a number of different categories of UK Work Permits. Most applications fall under the Business & Commercial category. Shortage Occupation applications and Intra-company transfers are also common.
UK Shortage Occupation List
These Work Permits are for occupations on the Shortage Occupation List. Employers that need to recruit a candidate in one of these occupations will not need to search for a British worker or EU worker before offering the position to a foreign national, as the UK Border Agency accepts that there is a shortage of skills in these occupations.
Intra-company transfer
This Work Permit allows UK employers to utilise the skills of employees that work for the same company in an overseas branch. The employee will usually need to have worked for the overseas branch of the company for at least 6 months.
Board level post
Work Permits for board level posts require the UK employer to demonstrate that the candidate will contribute to the strategic development of the company, and that the candidate has filled a similar position, at a similar level, for at least three years.
Inward investment
Work Permits for positions that must be filled before a foreign investment deal is completed in a UK company. An investment of no less than £250,000 is required before such an application can be approved.
Sponsored researchers
Work Permits for foreign researchers who are in employment overseas, and continue to be paid overseas, to allow them to undertake research in the UK for a UK employer or host organisation.
The funding for the research can be transferred to the UK employer/host, or remain overseas. The funding can also be arranged and paid for by the UK employer/host.
A foreign national on sabbatical leave, who decides to travel to the UK for the purpose of research at a UK employer/host may also qualify.
Post Graduate Doctors and Dentists
Postgraduate doctors and dentists can undertake training with the NHS in the UK. Posts that are covered include Senior House Officer, General Practice Registrar, Foundation Programme, or Specialist Registrar.
Business & Commercial
For professions that do not fall into any of the Work Permit categories above, Business & Commercial Work Permits are the most common UK Work Permit. UK employers can recruit foreign nationals from outside of the EU to fill a vacancy that the employer has been unable to adequately fill with a resident worker.
This is not an exhaustive list. You may be able to employee somebody with circumstances that fall outside of the criteria above. ContactMulberrry Finch now to discuss your requirement.
