Many public sector roles in the UK are open to migrants, though there are some restrictions based on migrants’ right to work, their immigration status and citizenship. 

People seeking asylum cannot work while their claim is being processed. However, if they have been waiting more than 12 months for a decision through no fault of their own, they can apply to the Home Office for permission to work. If the permission is granted, they are only allowed to work in jobs on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List, such as Care worker, Nurse or Civil engineer.

Public sector employers have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to advance equality of opportunity, eliminate discrimination and promote good relations. Although ‘migrant status’ is not a protected characteristic under the Equality Act, many migrant workers fall under categories protected by law, including race or ethnicity, religion or belief, nationality, language, disability, gender and sexual orientation.

Are there other restrictions on migrants? 

There are some restrictions on who can work in public sector roles in the UK depending on the immigration status and the type of job.

Certain public sector jobs require British (or dual British) citizenship due to national security, such as Police officer, Border Force officer, some roles in MI5, GCHQ and MOD, or high-level civil service roles with security clearance.

Some roles also require UK-specific qualifications which can prevent migrants from taking up these roles.

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