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Worker Registration Scheme

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Waiting times

This page sets out our target waiting times for applications under the Worker Registration Scheme, and explains what to do if you urgently need us to return your travel documents while your application is being processed.

We aim to consider 70 per cent of applications within two weeks of receiving them, and 90 per cent of applications within four weeks.

If your application is incomplete, it may take longer for us to consider it. However, you can continue working while your application is being dealt with.

If you have sent us your passport or national identity card with your application, you should not make any travel arrangements until this document has been returned to you. We will return your passport or national identity card after we have considered your application.

Requests for urgent return of travel documents

We will only consider requests for the urgent return of travel documents if they are for one of the following reasons:

  • bereavement
  • urgent medical treatment
  • urgent business travel
  • students returning for university examinations or courses
  • pregnancy-related issues
  • your contract has ended
  • attendance at a wedding or civil partnership ceremony

If you need to ask us to return your documents urgently, please complete a request form and fax it, together with proof of travel (such as copies of airline tickets or ferry tickets), to 0114 207 5871. You can download the request form from the right side of this page.

Although we will make every effort to return your passport or national identity card to prevent disruption to your travel arrangements, we are unable to guarantee this in respect of all requests.

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