United Kingdom

Relocation resources - United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is one of the largest markets for pharmaceutical R&D with 9% of total, global R&D expenditure; only the USA (51%) and Japan (15%) are ahead.  This means that the pharmaceutical job market remains buoyant despite recent economic turbulence, and demand for highly skilled workers across all aspects of drug development remains high.  In order to find out more about whether you are eligible to work in the UK and the processes and policies of applying for a work permit, visit the official government information page, or go directly to the category you fall in:

Highly skilled workers, investors and entrepreneurs
On 29 June 2008, several former immigration categories closed.  Visit this page for the latest categories and the most up-to-date information.

Sponsored skilled workers
Many existing immigration categories are due to close in November 2008. After this date, anyone with permission to stay in United Kingdom who wants to extend their stay will need to apply under the new points-based system.

Temporary workers
As with the previous category, many existing ones are due to close in November 2008. It is important that you find out the latest information here.

European Economic Area and Swiss nationals
All EEA and Swiss nationals are free to enter and live in the United Kingdom without the need to apply for permission. If you are a national of a country that joined the European Union (EU) in 2004 you may need to register with the Home Office/Border Agency when you start work. If you are a national of Bulgaria or Romania, you may need to apply for a permission before you start to work.


This company here provides a free eligibility assessment as well as more information about how you can work in the UK.

UK Work Permits

For more information about the latest job opportunities in the United Kingdom,  and/or an informal discussion about how we can assist, please contact us directly.