Best Work Permit Lawyers in Exeter

1. About Work Permit Law in Exeter, United Kingdom

Exeter follows the same national immigration framework as the rest of England. Work permits are governed by the United Kingdom’s points-based system administered by the Home Office and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). In practice, this means employers must be licensed sponsors to hire non UK nationals for most skilled roles.

The most common route for workers coming to Exeter is the Skilled Worker visa, which relies on a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed employer and adherence to salary and English language requirements. Other routes include Global Talent, Start-up and Innovator visas, as well as intra company transfers. Each route has different eligibility criteria, costs, and processing times.

Before starting work, individuals must have valid immigration permission and the right to work checks must be performed by the employer. Exeter employers, whether in tech hubs near the University of Exeter or in the City Centre, must comply with these requirements to avoid penalties for illegal employment.

The Home Office maintains ongoing guidance on routes, sponsor duties, and right to work checks. For authoritative guidance on routes and the sponsor system, see the Skilled Worker visa page and sponsor guidance on GOV.UK. Skilled Worker visa and Sponsor licence information.

Right to work checks are a legal obligation for employers in the UK, and failure to comply can lead to significant penalties.

Recent trends show increasing emphasis on sponsor compliance and robust evidence of eligibility, especially for roles in healthcare, technology and higher education sectors common in Exeter. For up to date policy details, consult GOV.UK guidance and the Home Office publications available online.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Here are concrete, Exeter-specific scenarios where legal help can make a difference in navigating work permits and visa matters.

• A software firm in Exeter plans to hire a senior developer from outside the UK and must obtain a sponsor licence before offering a job. A solicitor can assess the role, prepare the sponsorship paperwork, and manage the long lead time for sponsor status.
• An Exeter university department wants to hire a postdoctoral researcher from abroad. The case may involve Global Talent or Skilled Worker routes, English language proofs, and potential salary considerations tied to academic posts. Legal counsel can map the best route and prepare case submissions.
• A small Exeter business needs to extend or switch an employee’s visa after a salary change or role alteration. An immigration solicitor can ensure the changes keep the worker compliant with the visa conditions and avoid a lapse in status.
• An applicant in Exeter receives a Home Office request for further information or a decision on a visa refusal. A solicitor can prepare grounds for appeal or administrative review and help gather supporting evidence.
• EU citizens who moved to Exeter before or after Brexit face complex status questions for work rights. A solicitor can determine eligibility for EU Settlement Scheme, pre-settled or settled status, and any post settlement updates.
• A care provider in Exeter, facing a shortage of skilled workers, needs to sponsor visa applicants from abroad. A lawyer can guide sponsor designation, compliance with duties, and document retention requirements.

3. Local Laws Overview

Work permit regulation in Exeter is national, but several key statutes and regulatory frameworks shape how it works in practice.

• Immigration Act 1971 - foundations for entry, stay, and work in the United Kingdom, with powers later expanded by subsequent legislation. (Effective from 1971; remains a backbone of immigration control.)
• Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 - introduces penalties for illegal working and duties for employers to check immigration status. (Effective from 2006; remains central to right to work compliance.)
• The Immigration Rules (including the Appendix Skilled Worker and the current Points-Based System) - governs route specifics, sponsor duties, and application requirements. The Skilled Worker route replaced the old Tier 2 system on 1 December 2020. Skilled Worker visa guidance.
• Right to work checks guidance - employer obligations to verify that a person has permission to work in the UK. Right to work checks.

The Exeter economy includes universities, tech firms, and public sector employers that regularly engage international staff. Understanding the sponsor requirements, eligibility criteria, and processing timelines is essential for planning and risk management. For current rules and schemes, refer to GOV.UK resources cited above.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Skilled Worker visa and who can apply?

The Skilled Worker visa allows skilled non UK nationals to work in the UK with a sponsoring employer. Applicants must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship and meet salary and English language requirements.

How do I know if I need a visa to work in Exeter?

If you are not a UK citizen or do not have settled status, you usually need a visa or permit to work legally. Check your right to work on GOV.UK and consult a solicitor for your case.

What is a sponsor licence and who needs it?

A sponsor licence lets a business hire non UK workers. Employers must hold it to issue Certificates of Sponsorship to visa applicants.

How long does a Skilled Worker visa take to process?

Processing times vary by country and case complexity. UKVI guidance generally shows several weeks, with typical times around 3 weeks for many applications.

Do I need to prove English language for a work visa?

Most Skilled Worker applicants must demonstrate English language competence unless an exemption applies through your occupation or qualification.

How much does it cost to apply for a visa?

Costs include the application fee, healthcare surcharge, and potential legal fees. Fees vary by visa type and length of stay.

Can I switch employers on a Skilled Worker visa?

You may switch employers if your new employer has a sponsorship licence and you obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship for the role.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship?

A Certificate of Sponsorship is a digital record from your sponsor detailing the job and your eligibility. It does not guarantee visa approval.

What is the difference between Global Talent and Skilled Worker?

Global Talent targets highly skilled researchers and leaders in science or arts. Skilled Worker covers a wide range of skilled roles with a sponsor.

What happens if my visa is refused?

You may be able to appeal or apply for administrative review. A solicitor can help prepare submissions and identify grounds for review.

Do I need to leave the UK if my visa is refused?

Not immediately. You may have a grace period, or options to reapply or switch routes. Legal advice is essential to assess your options.

How long can I stay on a Skilled Worker visa?

Initial grants are typically up to 5 years, with possible extensions. Your total stay cannot exceed the visa and sponsorship limits without changing route.

5. Additional Resources

• GOV.UK - Skilled Worker visa - official guidance on eligibility, sponsor duties, and application process. https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
• GOV.UK - Sponsor licence - information for employers to obtain and maintain sponsor status. https://www.gov.uk/uk-visas-immigration-sponsors
• GOV.UK - Right to work checks - guidance for employers on verifying permission to work. https://www.gov.uk/check-job-applicant-right-to-work

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your visa route based on your job, qualifications, and Exeter employer. Note whether the job is in a shortage occupation or requires a Global Talent path.
2. Compile a document checklist with your employer, including certificate of sponsorship, job description, and evidence of English language ability.
3. Identify Exeter-based or UK-wide immigration solicitors who focus on work permits and sponsor compliance. Request a scope of work and fee estimate.
4. Request a pre consultation to assess eligibility, sponsorship options, and timelines. Prepare a concise summary of your case for the lawyer.
5. Have the solicitor audit your employer’s sponsor licence status and your documentation before submission to UKVI.
6. Submit the visa application with the sponsor's certificate and supporting evidence. Track processing times and respond promptly to Home Office requests.
7. Review decisions with your solicitor if a refusal occurs, and consider grounds for appeal, administrative review, or reapplication as advised.