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migrant workers - working in the uk

This section is for people coming to work in the UK from the European Union - particularly the new member countries. It gives information about your legal rights while you work here.

  • How do I register to work in the UK?  more...
  • What are National Insurance and income tax?  more...
  • My employer says that work rights don't apply to me because I'm a worker, not an employee. Is this right?  more...
  • What rights do all workers have in the UK?  more...
  • What is the minimum I can be paid in the UK?  more...
  • What breaks and holidays am I allowed?  more...
  • Can I join a union?  more...
  • Can an agency charge me money to find work?  more...
  • How can I get my employer to give me my work rights?  more...

further information

Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate

If you work for an agency that is treating you badly and you think it might be breaking the law you can report it to the government office that regulates agencies. T: 0845 955 5105.

Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC)

Some agencies (usually the better ones) are members of the REC, which sets standards for its members. If your agency has a REC symbol in its offices or on paperwork then you can complain to the REC if you think it is breaking employment law. T: 020 7462 3260

The EU Website 'Dialogue with Citizens' provides information on living and working around Europe in all European languages at: europa.eu.int/citizensrights

Working in the UK: Know your rights leaflet

workSMART Know Your Rights

Download our Know Your Rights leaflet "Working in the UK: Your rights" as a .pdf file

(you will need Adobe Acrobat to view this file, click here for free downloads of this software)

This information is also available in the following languages:

TUC Migrant Workers Project, Congress House, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3LS e-mail ctp@tuc.org.uk