Work PermitsThis is a guide to obtaining a Work Permit and is mainly for the benefit of those practices that are willing to employ a Vet with a Work Permit requirement. If however, you are a Vet / Nurse and you don't have UK Residency or the ability to work in the UK, you MUST obtain a Work Permit. Failure to do so will have very serious consequences not just for you personally but the practice you are ' working ' at also ! Firstly then, only a UK Employer, or in this case the practice, with a vacancy may apply for a Work Permit. Neither locum agencies nor you, the individual, can apply. Normally an employer should apply at least three months before they want the Vet / Nurse to start in the UK. This is to take into consideration the generally lengthy process of Work Permit applications. The employer first has to prove to the Work Permit authorities that a UK resident cannot fulfil the role. Such proof would come after first advertising for a UK national within specific media for at least one month but having had very poor or indeed no response. The employer would then have to find an alternative in the form of an overseas worker - this of course may have already been done - and again convince the Work Permit authorities that only this individual has the necessary skills and experience needed for the role. The whole process can easily take 3 months! However, presently there is a recognised shortage of Veterinary Surgeons in the UK and the Work Permit authorities can and do turn around applications, once received, within a week! There is a processing fee of £150.00 payable by the practice for this application. Probably the most efficient way to initiate the application process is by calling the Department for Education and Employment on 0114 259 4074 ( when you hear the automated message start, press 8 on your keypad and this will take you straight through to a 'real' person ); Mention your situation and they will then send the application pack direct to you within 48 hours! Alternatively, application forms can be obtained by telephoning 08705 210224 or you can Apply on-line but the on-line method can be confusing as it does not mention the fact there is a 'recognised shortage'. Once the Work Permit is issued, it is sent direct to the employer. The Work Permit should then be posted to the person overseas to be presented, along with their passport, at the UK port of entry. Some people may need a Visa before travelling so please check on the link! A Work Permit is not transferable under any circumstances. If you want to work for another British employer, or in this case another practice, the practice in question will have to apply for a separate Work Permit. There are some exceptions to this however but please make absolutely sure before you consider changing practices. Another thing, you cannot legally start work until the Work Permit is issued.
For further information or to clarify any of the points above, please contact us at Owen Tate Ellis Locum Agency either by telephone, fax or email. Alternatively contact the Department for Education and Employment at; |