Who may work?

Refugees

have a Travel Document* (like a British passport) or

have a letter from the Home Office granting ‘indefinite leave to remain’.**

Those with ‘humanitarian protection’ or ‘exceptional leave to remain’

have a Travel Document* or

have a letter from the Home Office granting ‘humanitarian protection’ or ‘exceptional leave to remain’ saying how long they may stay in the UK** (the government recognises that it is unsafe for them to return home for the time being). After the expiry date, the individual still has the right to work until the Home Office has considered their case again, which can take several months.

Some asylum seekers

have a plastic asylum seeker’s ‘ARC’ ID card* saying they have permission to work (not all asylum seekers have permission to work, so you will have to check documents).

* photocopy this document to show you have checked the employee’s right to work

** photocopy this document PLUS a P45, P60 or NI card PLUS a solicitor’s letter saying why a travel document is not available

Remember

Employers will not be prosecuted for employing someone who does have the right to work, even if they do not have a travel document.

For advice about permission to work documents contact Refugee Resource

Links to Immigration and Nationality Directorate website

Avoiding racial discrimination

Documents you should see

Current guidance and codes of practice