If you are employing workers new to the UK, you will need to ensure your company complies with UK laws and regulations. This page points you towards the information and resources you will need.
National Insurance number
The National Insurance number is a reference number for the UK benefits and tax credits system. It's also used to:
Make tax and National Insurance deductions through Pay As You Earn (PAYE)
Record an individual’s entitlement to the State Pension
Claim Jobseeker's Allowance
Claim Housing Benefit
Claim Incapacity Benefit.
Anyone who has the right to work in the UK can apply for a National Insurance number. This is done through certain Job Centres. Migrant workers should telephone 0845 600 0643 to find the nearest Job Centre with this service.
For more information, visit: www.dwp.gov.uk.
A8 Nationals
A8 nationals can work in the UK if they are authorised under the Home Office’s Worker Registration Scheme (WRS). The A8 countries are:
Czech Republic
Estonia
Hungary
Latvia
Lithuania
Poland
Slovenia
Slovakia
A8 workers have the same entitlements to social security benefits, tax credits, health care and education as other EEA workers in the UK.
A8 workers must join the scheme within one month of starting work. There is a one-off charge of £90. There is a fine of up to £5,000 for the employer if this does not take place. If someone moves jobs then they have to inform the Home Office but there is no additional charge. It is possible to fill out a form on-line.
After 12 months’ uninterrupted employment, A8 workers no longer have to register under the WRS. He or she will be able to apply to the Home Office for an EEA residence permit to confirm this.
Workers with work permits from all other EU countries can work in the UK without joining the Worker Registration Scheme.
For more information, visit: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk.
Self-employed migrant workers
Self-employed migrant workers do not need to register on the Workers Registration Scheme. However, they do have to register with the Department for Work and Pensions for tax and National Insurance purposes.
For more information, visit www.dwp.gov.uk.
Events for employers
ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) runs events in conjunction with the Job Centre for employers with migrant workers. These events cover legislation, discrimination issues and good practice.
For more information, visit www.acas.org.uk.
Please click here for more useful contacts and information on employing migrant workers.
