How to Work in the UK As a US Citizen
The United Kingdom is a place filled with history and local treasures. In addition to its many castles and greenbelt preservation lands, the U.K. is a bustling metropolis full of entrepreneurs from all age groups. As an American citizen, there are many specialties you can provide to the U.K. in addition to working in general sectors.
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Instructions
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Apply for a U.S. passport at your post office or passport agency. Fill out and return the application to the passport office along with your fee, passport picture and required identity documents.
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Obtain the necessary visa to work in the U.K. As of 2010, there are several visas you can apply for to work in the U.K. as a U.S. citizen. If you are married to a British national, you can apply for a spousal visa, which will enable you to gain the right to work by obtaining the indefinite leave to remain. You can apply for a work visa if you can demonstrate a skill that is not common in the U.K. or is a specialty of the U.S.
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Decide which sector of employment you are aiming for. The United Kingdom has a variety of business types, ranging from hospitality to information technology. No matter what field you decide to work in, you must have experience or professional training before applying.
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Go to a temp agency or your local Jobcentre to fill out an application outlining your skills and education. They will work to match your skills to a job opening if you do not know what field you want to work in.
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Send an application to the job of your choice. In the U.K., prospective employers send a letter confirming your application's acceptance or denial. You will need to reference this letter.
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Apply for a National Insurance Card. In the U.K., you are required to provide a National Insurance Card before working. This card works in the same way as a U.S. Social Security card. In order to apply, you will have to locate a Jobcentre near your home in the U.K. and fill out an application. You will need to show proof of your address, passport and any letters confirming that you are currently seeking work.
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Tips & Warnings
Study U.K. phrases. There are quite a few words that are different in the U.K. from U.S. English; studying these words and phrases will help you to communicate better in the work place.
You cannot work on a visitors visa. If you are in the U.K. visiting and you want to immigrate, you must contact the British Border Agency and ask what is required to continue living and begin working in the country.
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- Photo Credit Big Ben image by Dani Dulfu from Fotolia.com
