This section provides details of most of the categories available to people who want to come to the United Kingdom to work. You should make sure you read the eligibility requirements in full before you applying as each category has different requirements.

If you want information about how you can employ migrant workers if you are a United Kingdom employer, see the sponsors section.

For highly skilled workers, investors and entrepreneurs Highly skilled workers, investors, entrepreneurs and foreign students who have graduated from a United Kingdom university can apply under our new points-based system. You do not need to have a specific job offer, but you will need to pass a points-based assessment to be eligible to apply.

For sponsored skilled workers If you have a job offer from a UK-based employer who is prepared to sponsor you, you can apply for permission to enter or stay in the United Kingdom.

For temporary workers If you want to come to the United Kingdom to undertake short-term, temporary work there are specific arrangements for you.

For workers from the European Economic Area and Switzerland If you are a national of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are free to enter and stay in the United Kingdom. If you are a national of a state that recently joined the European Union, you may have to register with us or apply for our permission before you start to work.

Other categories The categories within this section are domestic workers; sole representatives of overseas firms; and representatives of overseas newspapers, news agencies and broadcasting organisations.