Work Permit Question

[yorkieb]

I was recently asked by a Thai friend for advice on his work permit. I was unable to answer so in an attempt to help I am posting here.

My friend (Thai) works in a food business on a 5 year work permit. The UK company sponsered the work permit to enable my friend to come from Thailand and work in the UK. Employment and accomodation are provided as part of the work permit. The 5 year work permit will expire in April 2009 at which point he will apply ILR (already passed life in UK test). However due to the tough climate in the UK the business is to be sold to another company before April 2009. Does the work permit automatically transfer to the new owner. Or will the worker need to start again and return to Bkk as the sponcer of the work permit has changed.

I know from my own personal experience dealing with a tourist, settlement visa's that if any criteria changes relating the initial application the applicant must start again and return through Bkk.

What would happen to his work permit status if the bussiness is sold to a new owner.

Many thanks for advice that may help my friend

Yorkieb

[the scouser]

The circumstances which you describe might be considered to be a technical change and, as such, not have a bearing on your friend's entitlement to his work permit. In the first instance he should report the change to:-

UK Border Agency

PO Box 3468

Sheffield

S3 8WA.

If, however, his terms and conditions change at all, or he changes responsibilities, a new WP will be required.

Scouse.