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Sector Based Scheme

The Sector Based Scheme closed on 31 December 2006. It is however still possible to extend current permits up to a maximum of twelve months.

How do I qualify for this kind of visa/permit?

• You must have a UK employer willing to employ you under this scheme.
• You must be between the ages of 18 and 30.
• You can currently only come under the scheme in a certain number of food manufacturing occupations. These occupations are usually lower skilled positions such as fish packers, meat cutters etc.
• You have to be outside the UK during the entire application process.
• The employer must be able to show that there is a shortage of people in the UK to fill these vacancies and will normally need to advertise to prove this.

How do I apply and do I need entry clearance?

The application under the SBS will be operated in very much the same fashion as the main UK Work Permit scheme and a UK based employer will have to prove that they have been unable to recruit resident workers in the relevant posts (position must be advertised), that it is a genuine vacancy and that the employer is not a recruitment agency. The position on offer must also entail at least 30 hours per week. If a position is of a level of skill and responsibility which meet the requirements of the current work permit scheme, the employer should apply as such, as the SBS permit will only be awarded to lower skilled positions in the hospitality and food manufacturing sector.

You will need to apply for entry clearance at the British High Commission in your home country once the SBS permit has been obtained by your UK employer, if it is for six months or more.

Breytenbachs will be able to assist you in your application.

Some Rules and Restrictions on Holder of the Sector Based Scheme permit:

• The permit is only temporary and valid for a maximum period of twelve months. You have to leave the U.K. for two months at the end of the twelve months if you want to take up another sector based work permit in the UK.
• You are not allowed to bring a spouse or dependants to the UK.
• You have no recourse to public funds.
• An aspect of this kind of permit that makes it unique from other schemes is that the employer has to provide the employee with accommodation or at least ensure that help is available to enable the permit holder to obtain accommodation of an acceptable standard.

Does this visa lead to indefinite leave to remain?

No, this is only a temporary work permit.