Working in London

There are plenty of exciting work opportunities in London - here's how to get started.

UK Visas

Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland do not need a visa to enter the UK. The EEA covers EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

All other foreign nationals should fill in the short questionnaire on the UK Visas website to find out what type of visa you require.

UK Work Permits

Citizens of the EEA and Switzerland do not need permission to work in the UK.

Europe

Workers from new EU member states (Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic) must register with the Home Office as soon as they find work
Separate arrangements are in place for nationals of Bulgaria and Romania

Other foreign nationals

If you are already in the UK, check that your status allows you to work. If you wish to change your status you may need to leave the UK and re-apply from outside
Visit the Working in the UK website for details of the numerous work permit arrangements and sector-based schemes in place

US Students

The BUNAC Blue Card permit allows full-time, US students to work in the UK. For more information visit the BUNAC Blue Card website

UK Tax

All employees in the UK are required to pay income tax on their earnings and any pensions.

If you are in official employment the tax will be deducted automatically from your wages.

Self-employed workers must keep records of their income and expenditure and fill in an annual tax return. Find out more at HM Revenue and Customs

National Insurance

You are required to pay National Insurance contributions (NICs) to build up your entitlement to state benefits and pension.

The amount you pay depends on how much you earn and your type of employment.

You must register for an NI number as soon as you start work and will need to attend an interview as part of the application process.

National Minimum Wage

The vast majority of UK workers are entitled to a minimum level of pay. This varies depending on your age but the full rate for adults is £5.73 an hour.

You are eligible regardless of whether your work is permanent or on contract, part-time or full-time, at your employer's premises or based elsewhere.

There are, however, certain exclusions such as au pairs and some apprentices. Find out more details on the HMRC website minimum wage page.

Looking for work in the UK

Whatever work you're looking for, there are plenty of places to search.

Employment Websites

The internet is a great resource and many websites also offer advice on writing CVs.

Employment Agencies

An online search should bring up plenty of agencies in your sector of interest. For general recruitment and office administration see:

Jobs in Newspapers

Pick up free copies of Metro and TNT magazine or check the Evening Standard and the national dailies. Your local library should stock a range of papers that you can browse for free.