UK Visa Bureau   »   UK Visas and Immigration   »  Worker Registration Scheme

UK Worker Registration Scheme

The Worker Registration Scheme is specific only to immigrants from the European Union and specifically the listed EU New Member States.

Workers from these countries are required to register to work in the UK using the Worker Registration Scheme. Should an employee fail to do so, then they are in breach of the immigration rules.  Additionally, employers who hire non-registered workers are breaking the law and could be subject to a fine of up to £5,000.

Worker Registration Scheme Required Countries

Citizens moving to the UK from the following countries are all subject to the Worker Registration Scheme. 

• Czech Republic
• Estonia
• Hungary
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Poland
• Slovakia
• Slovenia

Do you need a worker's registration certificate or a EEA residents permit?

Worker Registration Scheme Requirements

Workers from the affected countries must apply to the Home Office for a worker's registration certificate when they find employment in the UK. Failure to do so will mean that they are working illegally.

Visa Conditions

Once they have worked for 12 months, such workers may apply for an EEA residence permit.

 Find out more about the Worker Registration Scheme

Nations Exempt from the Worker Registration Scheme

Please note:  Workers from all other EU/EEA nations are exempt from the Worker Registration Scheme when migrating to the UK. 

In addition, the following countries are also not affected by the Worker Registration Scheme and have the same UK immigration rights as citizens of EU member countries:

• Iceland
• Lichtenstein
• Norway

 Start your application to be part of the Worker Registration Scheme