Sectors Based Scheme
How do I apply for a sectors based scheme permit for a Bulgarian or Romanian national?
This page explains how you can apply for permission to employ a Bulgarian or Romanian national under the Sectors Based Scheme (SBS).
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'.
The application form
Applications under the SBS must be made by a United Kingdom employer (or their representative). You should use application form SB1. This application form is available to download in word format from this site. You can request printed copies of the application form from our distribution centre:
Phone: 01773 441 471
Open: Monday - Friday 0900 - 1700
When to apply
You should make your application no more than six months before you want to employ the SBS worker. The worker will not be allowed to start work until he/she has received our permission.
Once you have received our letter of approval, the worker needs to apply for our permission to take work in the United Kingdom. This application should be using application form BR3. Details of the application process can be found in the Bulgarian and Romanian nationals section of this site.
Length of permit
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 they are allowed to apply for a registration certificate and have unrestricted access to the labour market.
If we issue an SBS permit to a Bulgarian or Romanian national for less than 12 months and you want to continue to employ the worker beyond the end of the permit you will need to apply for an extension.
Application forms
Information and guidance for all work permit applications
- General informationPDF 157K opens in a new window
- Payment guidePDF 159K opens in a new window
- Service standardsPDF 98K opens in a new window
Sectors Based Scheme (Bulgarian and Romanian nationals only)
- Form SB1DOC 1.6M opens in a new window
- SBS guide for recruiting Bulgarian and Romanian nationalsPDF 164K opens in a new window
See also
Contact
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Work permits customer contact centre
0114 207 4074
Customer Contact Centre, UK Border Agency, PO Box 3468, Sheffield, S3 8WA