UK Right to Work and Employment Rights for Zimbabweans

Understanding your work rights in the UK depends on your immigration status. SKILLED WORKER/HEALTH AND CARE WORKER VISA: Can only work for the sponsoring employer in the role specified on your CoS. Changing employer requires a new CoS and visa application (can be done from within the UK). Can do supplementary employment (up to 20 hours/week) in the same profession or on the shortage occupation list. STUDENT VISA: Maximum 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays. Cannot be self-employed or fill a full-time permanent vacancy. GRADUATE VISA: Unrestricted work — any employer, any role, self-employment allowed. FAMILY VISA: Unrestricted work from day one. ILR/BRITISH CITIZENSHIP: Unrestricted. EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS: Regardless of visa type, all workers in the UK are entitled to: National Minimum Wage (£11.44/hour for 23+, as of April 2024); maximum 48-hour working week (can opt out); paid annual leave (28 days including bank holidays for full-time); protection from discrimination; statutory sick pay; no deductions from wages below NMW; safe working conditions. COMMON ISSUES: Some Zimbabwean workers, especially in care, face exploitation — excessive hours, below-minimum wage, accommodation tied to employment, withheld passports. Report exploitation to ACAS (0300 123 1100) or GLAA.