Immigrationboards.com

Hello all,

I am a 20 year old Bulgarian citizen that studied in the UK for 2 years and now I decided to take an year out before I continue my education. The problem is that I do want to stay in the UK during this gap year so I can work and fund my studies and MOST importantly be with my girlfriend who is English. I am really sad because I have ran out of options and do not know what to do. I am not a 'highly skilled' worker because I haven't finished my degree and I am not a student right now either so I don't know if its possible to get a job. I can prove that I am self sufficient so I can stay here for more than 3 months but I need to work so I don't use up all my savings and do absolutely nothing one whole year. I really hope that there is an answer to my problems and I would greatly appreciate any advice.

Thanks

luelu, whilst for the reasons you state you are not allowed to be employed, you are allowed to be self-employed.

How am I actually going to earn money while being 'self-employed'? You are telling me that there is no chance for me to get any kind of work permit because of the current situation?

Thanks

Emil

Please appreciate that as an A2 national, you are subjected to transitional restriction in regards to the job market. As you are not yet 21 you will be unable to benefit from your girlfriend's British nationality, even if you are in a durable relationship, as defined by UK Immigration rules.

If you had obtained a Registration certificate during your studies, you will be allowed to work full time for a period of 4 months after your studies. After which you will not be considered as working legally.

After the four months, you will need to make provision for the rest of the 8 months

Thank you for your reply Obie. The problem is that I have never applied for the registration certificate and I do not even have the right to work full time for the four months you mentioned. Ive been here as a student but never worked in the UK and was living off my loan and my summer job at home in Bulgaria. What do you think I should do know?

As Bulgarian national derive their rights for being in the UK as a Student directly from Article 18 of the EC treaty, without the need to meet any administrative formality, or transitional protocols, i believe you can argue that the right to the 4 months of employment, after studies is applicable to you, with or without a registration certificate. So long as you can prove like other EEA nationals, that you have been in Education in the UK.

I know the UK takes a different view on this, but you can argue that in court, and i believe their are merits, to such an arguement.

Their is Agricultural Seasonal workers, or sector based jobs, which are available to A2 national, without the need for Workers registration Card. But i am unsure if this will be a suitable position for you.