Migrant workers
Summary
The South Norfolk area has a long history of migration. Recently there has been a rise in migration to the United Kingdom because more people from overseas are coming here to work.
Many local employers now rely on migrant workers to keep their businesses going where there is a shortage of local workers.
if you are a migrant worker, this page provides information on your rights to work, and gives web links to organisations that may be able to help you if you are new to South Norfolk.
Further information
Advice for migrant workers
The following is brief advice about your right to work in the UK. If you need further information and advice please see our links to other websites at the foot of this page. Please make use of the links to the Home Office official web pages to get up to date information, as the rules change frequently.
Can I work in the UK?
You do not need permission to work in the UK if you are:
- a British citizen;
- a Commonwealth citizen with the right of abode, or;
- a family member of a national from a European Economic Area country or Switzerland, who is lawfully residing in the UK.
Am I a national of the European Economic Area (EEA)?
You are a national of the EEA if you are from one of the following countries:
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Austria |
Greece |
Malta |
|
Belgium |
Hungary |
Netherlands |
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Cyprus |
Iceland |
Norway |
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Czech Republic |
Ireland |
Poland |
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Denmark |
Italy |
Portugal |
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Estonia |
Latvia |
Slovakia |
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Finland |
Liechtenstein |
Slovenia |
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France |
Lithuania |
Spain |
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Germany |
Luxembourg |
Sweden |
Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway are not members of the European Union (EU). However, the European Economic Area Agreement gave nationals of these countries the same rights to enter, live in and work in the United Kingdom as EU citizens.
I am a national of the European Economic Area - what rights do I have if I want to work in the United Kingdom?
You can:
- accept offers of work;
- work (whether as an employee, in self-employment or in business);
- set up a business;
- manage a company, or;
- set up a local branch of a company.
Work Permits
You do not need a work permit but if you are from Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary or the Czech Republic you may need to register as a worker under the Workers Registration Scheme.
To get a Worker's Registration Application Form telephone 08705 210224 or visit the Border & Immigration Agency's website [external link].
Related pages on this website
External links
Employment and Rights
Jobcentre Plus
Provides details about jobs and benefits whilst in the UK.
Home Office: working in the UK
This website provides official guidance on working in the UK and your rights.
Citizens Advice Bureau
This website provides advice on a range of topics including benefits and housing, employment rights and discrimination, debt and tax issues.
Mobile Europeans Taking Action (META helpline): 0871 423 1334
Open Tuesday and Wednesday, 8am-12noon & 2pm-6pm. provides information, support and guidance for migrant workers in Czech, English, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese, or Russian.
Education
BBC Learning English
Help and resources for anyone who wants to learn English from the BBC.
British Council Learn English
The British Council's website, with a section aimed at people who want to learn English.
Norfolk County Council Adult Education
Details of local language courses, some of which are free.
Health
National Heath Service
You can find out about local services on this site including local doctors, dentists and hospitals.
Health & Safety
Health and Safety Executive
Provides information leaflets on Health and Safety issues in a number of languages.
Contact us
| contact officer/team: | Equalities Group |
|---|---|
| web: | online enquiry form |
| email: | equalities@s-norfolk.gov.uk |
| telephone: | 01508 533952 |
| minicom/textphone: | 01508 533622 |
| address: | South Norfolk Council South Norfolk House Swan Lane Long Stratton Norwich NR15 2XE |
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If you need information in large print, audio cassette, braille, translation (written or verbal) or signed interpretation, let us know when you contact us.
Last updated on: 14 October 2011