Frontier Worker Permit

You must:

• Be a national of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein
• Live outside the UK
• Have started working in the UK by 31 December 2020
• Usually have worked in the UK at least once every 12 months since starting

Exceptions may apply if you have had periods of unemployment or were unable to work due to specific reasons.

Irish citizens don't need to apply but can opt to do so. British citizens, including those with dual citizenship, cannot apply.

You'll still be eligible if, within that 12-month period, you returned to your country of residence at least once every six months or twice in the 12-month period. Exceptions may apply for circumstances like illness or accident.

Genuine and effective work must be more than small, one-off tasks. The Home Office has detailed guidance on what counts as genuine and effective work.

You may still qualify under "retained worker" or "retained self-employed person" status. Various conditions apply based on reasons such as illness, pregnancy, or involuntary unemployment. Specific rules govern how long you can keep your status if you become involuntarily unemployed.

You’ll need to apply for a visa appropriate for your work type and stay duration. British and Irish citizens do not require a visa.