A Work Permit or Work Visa is usually needed for workers who are coming to the UK, as a result of having already secured a formal offer of work from an eligible UK company with a Sponsor Licence, or if you are being relocated to the UK by your current employer.

Alternatively, if you have a skill that is deemed as being in short supply in the UK, you may be eligible for a visa that allows you to enter the UK before you have had an official job offer.

The Tier 2 Visa can last for an initial period of up to five years. You will be able to apply for a Tier 2 Visa extension as long as your stay does not total more than six years overall.

Your eligibility will be assessed according to your background, education, qualifications, work history and achievements, amongst other things.

As the UK system consists of multiple types of visa category, it is of paramount importance that you select the right permit or visa type to suit your individual application and experience.

You should speak to your employer and to one of our expert immigration lawyers to ensure that the visa category you are applying for is the one that most closely reflects your needs.

There are a number of different types of Work Permit for the UK and the type of application you make will vary based on your situation. Tier 1 Visas have a number of sub-classes that allow for exceptionally talented individuals, entrepreneurs and investors to work in the UK.

Tier 2 Visas also have a number of varieties that cater to those who are moving country but staying with the same employer, as well as those who are moving as a result of having secured a UK based job.

For religious ministers or sportspeople, the Tier 2 Visa is also the most likely route to take.

If you are looking for temporary work, in a role such as a sportsperson, a minister of religion or an entertainer, you can also apply for a Tier 5 Visa.

In all instances, you will be required to fit a number of criteria to prove your eligibility for the relevant UK Work Permit or visa. It is absolutely crucial to your application that the correct documents and evidence are submitted along with the relevant forms in order to avoid rejection.

While not specifically a work visa, the UK Ancestry Visa can be used by members of certain Commonwealth countries with British ancestry to enter the UK to live and work. This visa type does not require applicants to already have a job offer but will be granted with the understanding that you will be a job seeker when you arrive.

The UK Ancestry Visa lasts for five years. You can apply for an Ancestry Visa Extension for a further five years, or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if you would like to make your stay more permanent.

This is a great Work Permit alternative for those with British-born grandparents to enter the country and work with more freedom than those on Tier 2 or Tier 5 Visa.

Getting the right documents to support your eligibility can be the difference between having your Work Permit granted or rejected, and there are thousands of applications every year that are refused due to incorrect or insufficient paperwork.

The WMYV is here to assist with all types of UK visa and Work Permit applications. Our immigration lawyers are specialists in their field with vast experience in making successful applications.

We can prepare and review your application to ensure that it is in the right format, completed correctly and that you have provided accurate and extensive supporting documentation.

This gives you the very best chance of securing your UK work permit and continuing your career in the UK with as smooth a transition as possible.

Our services include:

• checking your documents to ensure that they are sufficient;
• preparing a Letter of Representation which will support your application;
• liaising with the Home Office for the duration of your application;
• organising and liaising with your Sponsor if applicable;
• securing your Certificate of Sponsorship; and
• completing each part of your application form to the highest standard.

Contact us now or make an enquiry online to discuss your Work Visa/Work Permit options with one of our immigration lawyers.