Working in the UK

In April 2008, the UK’s work permit system was replaced by Tier 2 of the new points-based system as part of the government’s overhaul of the UK immigration system.

The new system passes much of the compliance burden on to the employer with the introduction of the Sponsorship Register*.  If you employ or plan to employ non-EU nationals you will first need to register your business with the UK Border Agency (UKBA). You can then apply for a sponsorship licence, which allows you to employ eligible non-EU nationals. For more information on the eligibility of non-EU nationals and the new points-based system, visit our Resources** section.

If you are currently employing non-EU nationals under the old “work permit” system, you must secure sponsor status in order to extend their permits.

If you haven’t already applied to the Sponsorship Register, it is important that you consider obtaining advice and registration as soon as possible due to the delays that may occur before your Application for Registration is approved by the UKBA.  We are finding it is taking the UKBA up to eight weeks to approve the applications and even longer where the UKBA has decided to carry out a pre-registration audit before making a decision.

There are tough criminal and civil penalties for getting it wrong.  If a company is found to have been employing illegal workers there is a maximum fine of £10,000 per employee and up to 2 years’ imprisonment for any individual in the company who had knowledge of the illegal working.

Advising employers and HR professionals on the employment of non-EU nationals is Paragon’s core business.  We can ensure you comply with all existing and new legislative requirements and help you develop and maintain compliant and effective HR policies and procedures. 

* please link to “Becoming a Sponsor” page
**link to a page in the Resources section that will detail how the points are earned

Key Contacts

Thal Vasishta