Romanian and Bulgarian Candidates ONLY
What is it?
The SBS (Sector Based Scheme) is a scheme covering those
posts within a given sector that are recognised as difficult to fill
within the UK.
The SBS arrangements continue to operate in the food-manufacturing sector for Bulgarian and Romanian nationals only.
You will be only able to work full time for a named employer in a specific job role.
Exceptions
The original SBS arrangements allowed employers in this country
to recruit people from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) to
fill vacancies that they were unable to fill with resident workers.
Whilst these arrangements have been withdrawn in most areas, where
these permit holders are still employed in the UK
they retain their rights to extension and change of
employment applications within the original criteria of the SBS route.
Can I apply?
You cannot apply directly for the SBS as the employer must apply
for this type of permit not the candidate.
However, you may apply to ETCi for a job in the food manufacturing industry for which we can process the permit on behalf of the employer.
ETCi recruit groups of candidates on a seasonal basis to fulfil our employers’ requirements so you may have to be patient and wait for the next available start date.
To apply you must be aged between 18 and 30.
How long can I work for?
The SBS letter of approval is usually issued for 12 months.
Can I stay longer?
Currently Romanian and Bulgarian citizens that have been working
in the UK for 12 months are then able to apply to stay and work in
the UK in any sector after that time. However, the Home Office
rules are subject to change and it would be advisable to check
your immigration status with ETCi 1-2 months prior to the
end of your contract.
Please contact Dominique Tuckett: dominique@etci.co.uk for further information.