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Sectors Based Scheme

How do I apply for permission for a sectors based scheme worker to change jobs?

This page explains how you can apply to employ someone who is already working under the Sectors Based Scheme (SBS) to change jobs. You will need to apply for our permission if you want to change the work being done by an existing SBS worker or if you want to employ a SBS worker currently employed by a different employer.

The information on this page is for workers from Bulgaria or Romania. If you want to employ a SBS worker from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) you should read the information for people from outside the EEA.

The application form

Applications for a change of employment under the SBS should be made on 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: 0117 344 1471
Open: Monday - Friday 0900 - 1700

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'.

When to apply

Your application must be received either before the worker leaves his/her current employment or within 28 days of the workers last day of work with his/her previous employer. The worker will not be allowed to start working in the new job until you have received our approval.

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 he/she can apply for a registration certificate and have unrestricted access to the labour market. Once the worker has a registration certificate they can be employed as a resident worker and you do not need to apply for permission through the SBS.

If your application for a change of employment is successful the SBS worker will need to extend his/her permission to work in the United Kingdom. The worker will need to use application form BR3. Details of the application process can be found in the Bulgarian and Romanian nationals section of this site.

Application forms

Sectors Based Scheme (Bulgarian and Romanian nationals only)

See also

Terms explained

  • European Economic Area

    Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Irish Republic, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom. Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway are not members of the European Union (EU) but citizens of these countries have the same rights to enter, live in and work in the United Kingdom as EU citizens.

All glossary terms

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