Things you need to know to work in the UK
The UK has a number of strict requirements that non-European migrants must follow in order to be considered for employment in their country. As a country with one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, it comes as no surprise that skilled migrants are looked upon favorably when looking to migrate to the UK.
You’ll Need a Work Permit
If you’re not from the EEA, you’ll need a work permit to work in the UK. Your visa will give you permission to enter the country and your work permit will allow you to work once you’ve arrived.
How to get a work permit:
In order to get a work permit, you must have a job offer from an employer on the registered sponsors list and have a valid certificate of sponsorship. It’s important to note that your employer must apply for your work permit. Permits are usually only given to people with specific skills and qualifications so to know if your skills are recognised in the UK, visit UK NARIC.
The Different Types of Visas
A visa is required for all non-European migrants that want to gain employment in the UK. There are a number of visa categories that each have different requirements, however, the majority of work-based categories are measured on the points-based system for immigration.
- High-value migrants: This visa is available to those with the financial means to remain in the UK without needing a job offer.
- Skilled worker: Available to skilled people that have been offered a job by an employer.
- Temporary workers: Available to those that have been offered short term employment.
For further information, visit UK Visas and Administration.
Applying for your National Insurance Number:
Once you’ve successfully received your work permit, you’ll need to apply for your national insurance number. In addition to helping speed up the employment process, this number represents your personal account number, and ensures that your tax payments, for income or national insurance contributions, are properly attributed to you.
Tax in the UK
To calculate income tax rates in the UK, view the UK government’s income tax rates page here.
The tax free threshold in the UK is £12,500, you do not have the pay income tax on annual wages under this number.
Opening a Bank Account in the UK:
Setting up a UK bank account can help you avoid foreign exchange fees once you start earning an income. In order to open a bank account, apply through your bank of choice directly.
Healthcare Considerations
You may need to pay a healthcare surcharge as part of your immigration application to the UK. The amount of the payment depends on the immigration status that you’re applying for. To calculate the amount that you’ll have to pay, click here. If you’re applying for an immigration application online, you’ll pay the surcharge as part of your application.
Holiday Leave
People employed in the UK are entitled to approximately 5.6 weeks of vacation leave a year. To calculate how many days you may be entitled to, visit the holiday entitlement calculator to understand your holiday allowance.
Income Expectations
If you’re yet to receive a job offer in the UK, it’s a good idea to check out the UK government’s national minimum wage resource. With this resource, you can learn more about the minimum wage rates for different types of work and begin to budget for future living expenses.
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