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Work Permits (non-EEA Nationals)

Who requires a work permit?

In the main, a person who is not a national of a member state of the European Economic Area (EEA) requires a work permit issued under provisions of the Immigration Act 1971 (as extended) in order to take employment in the Bailiwick of Guernsey.

The following list details most of those who do not require a Work Permit issued under the Immigration Act:

  • British citizens
  • Nationals of member states of the European Economic Area (EEA)
  • Family members of EEA nationals may also work without permits but must in possession of an 'EEA Family Permit' to enter the Bailiwick of Guernsey
  • Swiss nationals
  • Young persons admitted under the Youth Mobility Scheme
  • Commonwealth citizens admitted as working holiday makers**
  • Commonwealth citizens admitted on the grounds of UK ancestry
  • Other foreign nationals who have no restrictions attached to their stay - for example, long term residents.

**This category was abolished for new applicants on 27th November 2008. Persons in possession of a valid Working Holidaymaker entry clearance issued may remain in this capacity until the Entry Clearance expires.

If you are not included in the list above, you will almost certainly require a Work Permit in order to take employment in the Bailiwick of Guernsey. There are, however, restrictions which apply under laws, other than the Immigration Act, which apply in the separate Islands of the Bailiwick.

In Guernsey, strict controls exist over the occupation of housing, further information should be obtained from the States of Guernsey Housing Department.


In Sark there are also laws which restrict the occupation of certain dwellings, further information should be obtained from The Seneschal, Tel: 01481 832993, Fax: 01481 832994.

In Alderney there are separate laws dealing with employment, further information should be obtained from: The States of Alderney, Employment Permits Clerk, Alderney GY9 3AA, Tel: 01481 823064, Fax: 01481 824447.

Further information about Work Permits can be found here.


Immigration and Nationality Division

Guernsey Border Agency, New Jetty,  White Rock,  St Peter Port,  Guernsey,  GY1 2LL,  Channel Islands
Tel: +44 1481 741420 Email: ind@gba.gov.gg

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