Hong Kong Welcome
Employment
Finding work in the UK
Looking for a job in a new country can be daunting but there are many opportunities. All BN(O) status holders have the right to study and work in the UK.
National Insurance
The first thing you need to do is apply for a National Insurance (NI) number. National Insurance is the UK’s social security system, including the state pension scheme.
You can apply online, or you can call the National Insurance application line on 0800 141 2075 and ask for an application form. When you receive the form, you will have to return it with proof of identity, and proof of your right to work in the UK. It can then take up to 16 weeks to receive your National Insurance number.
If you already have a job offer, you can start work before you receive the NI number, but you should apply as soon as possible.
For more information about applying for a NI number
For more information about your rights at work including: basic rights and contracts, pay, holidays, sick pay and parental rights
Looking for a job
There are many ways to search for jobs. The UK Government has a ‘Find a Job’ service where you can search for different types of job in different areas of the country.
National newspapers such as The Times, The Guardian and The Telegraph also have recruitment sections, especially for professional and graduate jobs.
Make sure your CV is up-to-date and prepared in the UK style. There’s a useful guide here about writing a British style CV and interview tips.
Hongkongers in Britain have information about employment in the UK, such as information sessions, recruitment events, employment webinars and job opportunities for Hong Kong job-seekers.
Self Employment
There is information about starting and running your own business on the government website:
St Albans Enterprise Agency (STANTA) is a local organisation which gives free advice to small businesses:
Find information about a fully funded support programme for those starting their own business from the East of England Local Government Association here.
Qualifications
To find out how your professional qualifications compare or can be transferred to the UK, check the UK national agency for qualifications and skills website.
Depending on your professional field, you can apply for a Statement of Comparability, which you can use to show employers how your qualifications compare to the UK equivalents. This costs around £49.50 + VAT
A letter including the latest information about applying for a Certificate of No Criminal Conviction (CNCC) can be found here.
Webinars/Workshops
Income Tax
How much Income Tax you pay in each tax year depends on:
- how much of your income is above your Personal Allowance
- how much of your income falls within each tax band
In most jobs, tax and National Insurance contributions are paid through your employer. This is called Pay As You Earn (PAYE). If you are self-employed, you will need to pay your income tax directly.
Find out more about the tax system here.
Citizens Advice has information about how to find tax advice.
TaxAid provides help to people on a low income or has a series of guides to help you understand issues with the UK tax system. They also have information to help you choose a tax adviser.