Working in the UK
Changes to our immigration system
We are introducing a new points-based system. Find out how this may affect your application
This section provides details of most of the categories available to people who want to come to the United Kingdom to work. Each category has different eligibility requirements; you should make sure you read the eligibility requirements in full before you make your application.
If you want information about how you can employ migrant workers if you are a United Kingdom employer, you should visit the employers and sponsors section.
During 2008 and 2009 we will be introducing a new points-based system. This system will replace most of our existing work-based categories. For more information about the new system you should see changes to our immigration system.
For highly skilled workers, investors and entrepreneurs
Highly skilled workers, investors, entrepreneurs and foreign students who have graduated from a United Kingdom university can apply under our new points-based system. You do not need to have a specific job offer, but you will need to pass a points-based assessment to be eligible to apply.
For sponsored skilled workers
If you have a job offer from a UK-based employer who is prepared to sponsor you, you can apply for permission to enter or stay in the United Kingdom.
For temporary workers
If you want to come to the United Kingdom to undertake short-term, temporary work there are specific arrangements for you.
For workers from the European Economic Area and Switzerland
If you are a national of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are free to enter and stay in the United Kingdom. If you are a national of a state that recently joined the EU you may have to register with us or apply for our permission before you start to work.
Other categories
This section contains information about other work-based categories. The categories within this section are clinical attachments and dental observer posts, domestic workers, entertainers, film crew on location, overseas qualified doctors taking the PLAB test, postgraduate doctors and dentists and sole representatives of overseas firms.
News & updates
Terms explained
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Application
A formal request you make to us, asking us to consider giving you a particular thing. For example, you may make an application for permission to stay in the United Kingdom, for British citizenship, or to be recognised as a refugee. An application will usually be in writing, using an official form (application form) we produce for that type of request. Applications to be recognised as a refugee are known as asylum applications, and these do not require an application form. See the Asylum section for information on this type of application.