Are you looking into making a move to Jersey in the Channel Islands? In this article, our team goes through what to expect when moving to Jersey so that you can clearly understand what is and is not possible.  

Jersey is an incredible place to work and live, so it's no wonder many people wish to call the island home with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As a result, you are required to register with the Customer and Local Services department, which will issue you with your residential and employment status. These statuses have restrictions for working and are implemented to safeguard the local population so that they are given ample opportunity before employers can look to import talent.  

Understanding the Basics

Jersey’s immigration environment is different from other offshore jurisdictions, as they consider the right to enter, the right to work and the right to reside separately. As such, you may be required to obtain a visa, a work permit and a registration card. We will cover all these different aspects throughout this article. 

work Permits 

There are two types of work permits: skilled work permits and temporary permits. The skilled work permit would be granted for companies employing within the professional services sector, but there are also 9–12-month temporary permits geared towards the agriculture, construction, fishing and hospitality industries. 

This article specifically covers the skilled permit option as this relates to the areas our team here at CML recruits, but you can learn more about temporary permits here. 

Skilled Work Permits 

This type of permit is initially granted for up to three years but can be extended. Some specific criteria and jobs are eligible for this type of permit. You must meet the English language requirements if issued for over twelve months, and you may only add dependents on this type of permit if it is issued for over twelve months. 

More details on the criteria and jobs that are eligible for a work permit in this category are detailed in the work permit policy. 

THE WORK PERMIT PROCESS

Work permits are granted to people invited to live in Jersey because of their employment skills or because Jersey needs more people with a specific skill set. Work permits can only be applied for by your employer on your behalf, and you must be outside the UK/Jersey when applying for a work permit. 

DOCUMENTS YOU WILL NEED

1. A fully completed work permit application. (Your employer will apply on your behalf). 
2. Medical certificates – Depending on your nationality and country of residence, you may be required to submit a tuberculosis certificate before moving to Jersey. (Required for VISA travel application). 
3. Copy of applicant's signature/photo page of a valid passport 
4. Copy of the applicant's passport page showing your current UK immigration status (Visa) 
5. Copy of your qualifications and resume 
6. Document supporting English language requirements 
7. An employment contract or offer letter 

The immigration department will contact your employer should they require additional documentation to support the application. 

What Happens Next? 

If the application is approved, a letter is sent to your new employer notifying them of the acceptance and terms and conditions upon which you may work. Your employer would then relay this information to you so that you may plan the rest of your relocation and move to Jersey.  

You need this approval letter for when you arrive at the airport; you will not be allowed entry while your permit is still processing, so it is essential to stay in contact with your employer for the status of your application.  

Once you arrive in Jersey and before starting your new position, your employer will ask for your registration card, which you will need to collect once you arrive in Jersey. 

Right to Reside 

REGISTRATION CARDS 

As mentioned, in Jersey, there is a unique aspect to their immigration which differs from other offshore jurisdictions, as you must also obtain a registration card. Your registration card lets your employer know your residential and employment status, and upon arriving in Jersey, you must visit Customer and Local Services to register and receive your card. You will also require a Social Security number which you can apply for here too. 

These different residency statuses are designed to protect the local Jersey employment pool. It also ensures that Work Permits are granted to individuals who meet the skills and qualifications for specific roles where a labour shortage has been identified. 

TYPES OF REGISTRATION CARDS