The Sectors Based Scheme (SBS) work permit arrangements allow United Kingdom based employers to recruit Bulgarian and Romanian nationals only, to fill certain posts specified in the food manufacturing sector.

The SBS application process consists of two stages. The first stage involves the employer applying for a letter of approval to employ a named individual under the SBS. Once we have issued a letter of approval, the worker must apply for an accession worker card. The worker must not start work until he/she has received their accession worker card.

If your application for a letter of approval is successful, the letter will give the individual permission to work in the United Kingdom under the SBS for a maximum of 12 months. Once a Bulgarian or Romanian national has been working in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months they no longer need authorisation to work and are entitled to apply for a registration certificate confirming their unrestricted access to the labour market. You would then be able to employ the Bulgarian or Romanian national as a resident worker and would not need to apply for permission under the SBS.