Employing migrant workers in Northern Ireland
Taking migrant workers through their induction
A new immigration system applies to people arriving in the UK from 1 January 2021. EU citizens moving to the UK to work will need to get a visa in advance. Employers need a sponsor licence to hire most workers from outside the UK.
Please note: this requirement excludes Irish citizens and those who already have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
See right to work checks: employing EU, EEA and Swiss citizens.
When carrying out an induction with a migrant worker, you should remember that they may need additional support.
Beginning employment in a new organisation can be difficult for anyone but working in a new country can bring additional challenges.
Effectively assisting new employees should mean that they adapt more easily to their new roles and become more productive.
Planning an induction
When planning an induction, take into account if the individual's first language is not English.
You should also be sensitive to cultural or religious customs and make sure the process is not discriminatory in any way.
Putting together a welcome pack is a good way to provide key information about your business, employment documents, and facilities. See new starter pack for staff.
It may be useful to include information about living in Northern Ireland and English language classes in the pack. See tailoring the induction to the worker.
Further help following the induction
Following up with new employees after an induction can give you the opportunity to help further with their integration or any queries they may have eg accommodation, childcare, or banking issues.
It may also be useful to link them up with another employee who could act as a 'mentor' and provide further information and support about the business and the local area.
- Equality Commission Employer Helpline028 90 500 600