Foreign nationals wishing to work in the UK must comply with strict regulations regarding immigration, work permits and visas.
Two of the most popular methods to secure eligibility are the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP UK) and the Employer Sponsored UK Work Permit.
HSMP applicants are skilled individuals who are evaluated by the Home Office on a points-based system, which takes into account education, age and recent earnings.
Candidates with approved HSMP status may enter the UK prior to finding a job and work for any UK employer, without requiring the employer to sponsor a work permit themselves.
An Employer Sponsored UK Work Permit is secured by a UK employer who can demonstrate to Work Permits (UK) that their company is a viable business with a definite need for the overseas candidate.
It enables the employee to work in the UK for up to five years -- but only for the employer sponsoring the work permit.
Both options count towards future Permanent Residency applications, however.
Further information is available from: