Frontier Worker EU
Cross-border workers who live abroad but wish to work in the UK can apply for a Frontier Worker Permit. Frontier Worker permit proves a right to access benefits and services, including NHS healthcare
In December 2020, a new kind of visa called the Frontier Worker Permit became available. The purpose of the work permit was to meet the requirements of EU nationals after the termination of free movement in December 2020. People who live and work in several countries are known as «Frontier Workers,» and their lifestyle has become increasingly popular due to the EU’s freedom of movement. However, the free movement of EU nationals between the UK and other EU member states has been discontinued as a result of the UK’s exit from the EU and the expiration of the Brexit transition period.
1. Who is eligible for frontier worker status?
The Frontier Worker Permits allow people from the EU, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein to enter the UK to work. Typically, a permit is valid for five years.
All of the following may apply to you, making you eligible:
- you’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
- you live outside of the UK
- you began working in the UK on 31 December 2020
The working requirements are as follows:
- you usually must have worked in the UK at least once every 12 months since you started working here
- you must have started working in the UK whilst living in another country by 31st December 2020
- the type of work that you do must be eligible for the permit
Work that is considered qualifying in the UK must be «genuine and effective,» which implies that it must be more substantial than one-off jobs. This category covers both employed and self-employed work. Participating in a one-time competition, signing a contract, or attending interviews are not examples of eligible work.
2. How do I become a frontier worker?
When making an online application you will need a valid passport or a national identity card. You will also need to submit a few supporting documents. The documentation you will require will change based on your specific situation, such as employment status or self-employment. Your job contract, payslips or copies of invoices for work completed in the UK are among the documents you could require.
You will receive a notification indicating that your application has been approved if it is successful. You will receive a digital permit if you applied through the app. If an applicant applies from outside the UK, they will receive an email letting them know they may pick up their permit whenever they arrive, or they may receive a written permission if they are already in the country.
You should think about your alternative immigration choices before applying for a Frontier Worker Permit. There are alternative options available to EU and EEA people for working in the UK than the Frontier Worker Permit, and these options may offer greater benefits.
If you have obtained pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme then you do not need to apply for a Frontier Worker Permit to work in the UK, your immigration status will already grant you the right to work here.
3. Frontier Worker permit fees
You are exempt from paying the immigration health premium and there is no application fee for the permission. You might have to pay to submit your biometric data (fingerprints or photos).
4. If you need an appointment
Since there might not be a centre close to you, give yourself more time when scheduling your appointment and travelling there. There is a chance your appointment will cost money.
While processing your application, the centre might need to hold onto your passport and supporting documentation.
5. Family members
Your family members are not covered by your Frontier Worker permit. Each family member must apply individually for an EU Settlement Scheme family permit.
6. How can our company help?
You can contact our expert immigration advisers if you need assistance with your Frontier Worker Permit application.
We can handle any matters relating to the Frontier Worker Permit:
- evaluating if the Frontier Worker Permit will be suitable for your needs
- applying for a Frontier Worker Permit
- advise if there are other more suitable visa options given your circumstances
- helping with a refusal of the Frontier Worker Permit applications