Hello
If this help, you should also keep the original with you on holiday when you are still working with the same employer, just in case they have questions at the desk!!!!!
It soes not cost money to get the replacement because it is not the same as a work permit - see this:
To replace a lost work permit
218. You may request a reprint of a permit lost in transit (includes lost overseas) that has not been used to enter the UK. Requests should be made in writing or by fax to the original team who made the decision. Reprints will be free of charge. If you request a reprint of a work permit that has been lost and has already been used to enter the UK by your employee and the loss has taken place in the UK, we will issue a work permit certificate free of charge. The UK Border Agency reserves the right to undertake investigations to determine the facts of each case. If the original permit is subsequently found, it should be returned, as the reprinted permit supersedes it.
Your employer needs to write to the work permits department explaining that you need a copy. They will need to include a copy of your entry clearance or your leave to remain. This is because the letter will say that you can work for the employer until the dates on your visa, rather than 60 months or whatever was on your permit.
Guidance notes
llNicell -£500 is reeaally steep for the cost of a sheet of paper, bit of typing, a little printer ink and a stamp, because the HO does it for free & it should be
very straight forward.
I hope this helps.
PP
