Global Major Cities Guide

Essential information about work permissions, visa types, and legal requirements to work in the UK as a newcomer.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Work Visas and Permits in Manchester, United Kingdom

If you are planning to work in Manchester, United Kingdom, you will likely need a work visa or permit unless you are a UK citizen, an Irish citizen, or have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Below is a detailed guide to help you understand the process, requirements, and local resources available in Manchester.

1. Relevant Work Visa Categories

The UK offers several work visa categories depending on your job type, skills, and circumstances. The most common work visas for Manchester include:

a. Skilled Worker Visa

Purpose: For individuals with a job offer in the UK from an approved employer in an eligible skilled occupation.
Eligibility:
- A confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor.
- The job must meet the minimum skill level (RQF Level 3 or above, equivalent to A-levels).
- Meet the minimum salary threshold of £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour (lower thresholds apply for shortage occupations or new entrants).
- Proficiency in English (proven through a test or qualifications).
Duration: Up to 5 years, renewable.
Cost:
- Application fee: £610–£1,408 (depending on the length of stay and whether the job is on the shortage occupation list).
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year.
Processing Time: Typically 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.

b. Global Talent Visa

Purpose: For highly skilled individuals in fields such as academia, research, arts, and technology.
Eligibility:
- Endorsement from a recognized UK body (e.g., Tech Nation for digital technology or Arts Council England for arts and culture).
- Demonstrated exceptional talent or promise in your field.
Duration: Up to 5 years, renewable.
Cost:
- Application fee: £623.
- IHS: £624 per year.
Processing Time: 3–8 weeks.

c. Health and Care Worker Visa

Purpose: For healthcare professionals with a job offer in the UK’s health or social care sector.
Eligibility:
- A job offer from an approved UK employer in an eligible health or care role.
- Meet the salary threshold of £20,960 per year or £10.75 per hour.
- Proficiency in English.
Duration: Up to 5 years, renewable.
Cost:
- Application fee: £247–£479 (lower than the Skilled Worker Visa).
- IHS: Exempt for this visa.
Processing Time: 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.

d. Graduate Visa

Purpose: For international students who have completed a degree in the UK and wish to stay and work.
Eligibility:
- Must have completed a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible qualification.
- Must have a valid Tier 4 or Student Visa at the time of application.
Duration: 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates).
Cost:
- Application fee: £715.
- IHS: £624 per year.
Processing Time: 8 weeks.

e. Start-up and Innovator Visas

Purpose: For entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the UK.
Eligibility:
- Endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body.
- A viable, innovative, and scalable business idea.
Duration: Start-up Visa: 2 years (non-renewable); Innovator Visa: 3 years (renewable).
Cost:
- Start-up Visa: £378.
- Innovator Visa: £1,036.
- IHS: £624 per year.
Processing Time: 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.

2. Application Procedures

The application process for UK work visas generally involves the following steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm that you meet the specific requirements for the visa category you are applying for.
Ensure your employer is a licensed sponsor (for employer-sponsored visas).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Common documents include:

A valid passport or travel document.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer (if applicable).
Proof of English language proficiency.
Proof of financial means (if required).
Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable, based on your country of residence).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Apply online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable).

Step 4: Attend a Biometric Appointment

Provide your fingerprints and photograph at a visa application center (VAC) in your home country or at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center if applying from within the UK.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

Processing times vary by visa type but typically range from 3 to 8 weeks.

3. Associated Costs

Visa Application Fees: Vary by visa type and duration.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year (exempt for Health and Care Worker Visa).
Additional Costs:
- English language test: £150–£200.
- TB test (if required): £65–£110.
- Priority processing (optional): £500–£800.

4. Local Considerations in Manchester

Manchester is a major hub for industries such as technology, healthcare, education, and creative arts. Here are some local considerations:

Job Market: Manchester has a thriving job market, particularly in digital technology, healthcare, and finance. Research local job boards like Manchester Digital, NHS Jobs, and LinkedIn for opportunities.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Manchester is lower than in London but higher than in smaller UK cities. Expect to pay around £800–£1,200 per month for rent in the city center.
Cultural Adaptation: Manchester is a multicultural city with a large international community. There are many cultural organizations and events to help you integrate.

5. Local Resources and Offices for Assistance

If you need help with your work visa application or have questions, the following resources in Manchester can assist:

a. UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)

Location: Core Technology Facility, 46 Grafton Street, Manchester, M13 9NT.
Services: Biometric appointments, document scanning, and submission.
Website: UKVCAS

b. Immigration Solicitors in Manchester

Examples:
- Latitude Law: Specializes in work visas and immigration law.
- Simpson Millar: Offers visa and immigration advice.
Cost: Fees vary; initial consultations may be free or cost around £100–£200.

c. Local Job Centers

Purpose: Assistance with finding jobs and understanding employment rights.
Example: Jobcentre Plus, Manchester Piccadilly.

d. Universities and Career Services

If you are a graduate, contact your university’s career services for visa advice and job opportunities.

6. Additional Tips

Plan Ahead: Start your visa application process at least 3 months before your intended start date.
Stay Updated: UK immigration rules change frequently. Check the official UK government website (gov.uk) for the latest information.
Network Locally: Join professional groups and attend networking events in Manchester to build connections and find job opportunities.

By following this guide, you can navigate the work visa and permit process for Manchester with confidence. If you need further assistance, consider consulting an immigration solicitor or contacting UKVI directly.