This page explains how you can apply to employ someone who is already working under the Sectors Based Scheme (SBS) to change jobs. You will need to apply for our permission if you want to change the work being done by an existing SBS worker or if you want to employ a SBS worker currently employed by a different employer.
Applications for a change of employment under the SBS should be made on application form SB1. This application form is available to download in word format from this site.
Before you make an application you should make sure that you have read the information on the requirements that need to be met in order for us to issue a letter of approval under the SBS. You should also read the information leaflet 'Sectors based scheme (Bulgarian and Romania nationals only) - guidance for employers'.
Your application must be received either before the worker leaves his/her current employment or within 28 days of the workers last day of work with his/her previous employer. The worker will not be allowed to start working in the new job until you have received our approval.
SBS permits are issued for a maximum of 12 months. Once a Bulgarian or Romania has been legally employed in the United Kingdom for a continual period of 12 months he/she can apply for a registration certificate and have unrestricted access to the labour market. Once the worker has a registration certificate they can be employed as a resident worker and you do not need to apply for permission through the SBS.
If your application for a change of employment is successful the SBS worker will need to extend his/her permission to work in the United Kingdom. The worker will need to use application form BR3. Details of the application process can be found in the Bulgarian and Romanian nationals section of this site.
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Irish Republic, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom. Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway are not members of the European Union (EU) but citizens of these countries have the same rights to enter, live in and work in the United Kingdom as EU citizens.
0114 207 4074
Customer Contact Centre, UK Border Agency, PO Box 3468, Sheffield, S3 8WA