I'm going to London, do I need a work visa if I get a work permit while I'm there?

Question

I'm going on tour with my bf in London. Being a US citizen I can go for 6 months without a visa. Were only going to be there for 2 or 3! I want to work while I'm there but I'm getting there July 7th. Can I go there, find a job, and then get a work permit and work?? Without getting a work visa?

Answer 1

yes

Answer 2

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS:  A visa is not required for tourist or business visits to the UK of less than six months in duration.  Visitors wishing to remain longer than one month in Gibraltar should regularize their stay with Gibraltar immigration authorities.   Those planning to visit the UK for any purpose other than tourism or business, or who intend to stay longer than six months, should consult the website of the British Embassy in the United States at http://britainusa.com for information about current visa requirements.  Those who are required to obtain a visa and fail to do so may be denied entry and returned to their port of origin.  The British government is currently considering reducing the visa-free period from six months to 90 days.  Travelers should be alert to any changes in legislation.  The U.S. Embassy cannot intervene in UK visa matters.

Answer 3

Work permits can be a bit tricky-it all depends on what kind of work you do and when you find the job. I'd recommend looking for work before you get there because it can take up to two months to get a work permit. Check out www.ukvisas.gov.uk for a list of rules and requirements

Answer 4

Just to be clear - coming to the UK for "tourism or business" does not entitle you to work here - you may be here "on business" but that means business to do with your current employer, whilst in their employ.

For example, you may attend a trade show or visit clients.

However, you most certainly not take employment with a company here - no matter how  lowly or important - without a work visa, which must be obtained before you enter the country. One of the questions you will be asked on arrival is designed to ensure that a) oyu have enough funds for the length of your visit and b) that you will not look for work. Answer wrongly and you will be on the next flight back - and it happens several times a day at each UK port / airport.

Similarly, employers face imprisonment for employing people who are not EC / EEA citizens (that is, from one of the 47 European Countries) or from many of the current and former UK Commonwealth countries.

We are part of this large community, to whom we give precedence.

To make it clear, you may be aware that people cannot simply turn up at the USA and seek work, either.

Sorry if this seems harsh, but it's better than being deported as you arrive, or, worse, getting locked up ina UK jail with other illegal immigrants, which is what you will be considered as.

Does this help, please?

Alun Hill MCIJ, UK Journalist