How to transfer employees from Japan to UK

Transferring employees from Japan to the UK can be a daunting and complex process. It involves considering a range of factors, such as eligibility, cost of living, cultural shock, language barriers, and obtaining visas. The goal of this blog post is to provide you with an overview of the process of transferring an employee from Japan to the UK.

Overview of  transferring employees from Japan to UK

When relocating an employee from Japan to the UK, it’s important to first determine if they are eligible for the transfer. This will depend on their work permit status in Japan and any existing agreements between the two countries. It’s also important to research the cost of living in the UK and understand that there may be a significant cultural shock for your employee. For example, depending on where in Japan your employee is coming from, English may not be their native language. In this case, you may want to consider providing them with English lessons or language support.

Aside from relocating for employment purposes, there are many other reasons why someone might want to move from Japan to the UK. These could include pursuing a business venture, attending a university, or simply exploring new opportunities. Ultimately, relocating from one country to another can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With careful planning and preparation, you can make the transition as smooth and successful as possible.

Different types of Visas and Work Permits are required to transfer from japan to the UK

When transferring from Japan to the UK, it is important to understand the different types of visas and work permits that may be required for you or your employees. Depending on the purpose of your visit and the length of time you intend to stay, different visa and work permit requirements may apply.

For individuals looking to move to the UK for work purposes, including those who wish to start a business, you may need to apply for a skilled worker Visa. This visa is usually valid for three years and four months and will require an endorsement from an employer registered with the Home Office. Those looking to study in the UK must obtain a Tier 4 General Student Visa, which is valid for up to five years.

For Japanese nationals working in the UK, the Tier 2 Intra Company Transfer (ICT) Visa may be applicable. This visa allows foreign workers to transfer between offices of their company in different countries, allowing them to stay in the UK for up to five years. The Skilled Worker Visa is another option, allowing foreign workers to enter the UK to fill certain job roles and is valid for a period of up to three years and four months.

CGM is a corporate immigration application for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Feel free to contact us on 0300 000 000 or send us an email if you have any questions. 

lastly, entrepreneurs looking to set up their own businesses in the UK can apply for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa. This visa is valid for up to three years and allows the entrepreneur to manage a business, as well as recruit other people.

When it comes to transferring from Japan to the UK, there are many visa and work permit options available, depending on your individual needs and circumstances. It is important to take the time to understand the different requirements so that you can ensure you have the correct visas and work permits in place before you make the move.

Check if your employees are eligible for a transfer

Before transferring employees from Japan to the UK, employers need to make sure that their employees are eligible for the transfer. This will involve checking if the employee has the necessary qualifications if they have the right to work in the UK and if there are any legal restrictions or qualifications needed in order to work in the UK.

Qualifications: Depending on what job they will be doing in the UK, employers should check that their employee has the required qualifications and experience. The employer may also need to provide evidence of the employee’s qualifications to obtain a visa or work permit.

Right to Work: Employers must make sure that their employees have the right to work in the UK, either through a visa or a work permit. There are different types of visas and work permits available depending on the length of stay, type of work, and other factors.

Legal Restrictions: Depending on where their employees are from, employers should research any additional legal requirements for working in the UK. This could include criminal record checks, additional health screenings, or proving financial stability.

Once employers have checked these qualifications, rights, and restrictions, they can start making arrangements for transferring employees from Japan to the UK.

Work experience criteria

When transferring from Japan to the UK, you and your employees must be aware of the work experience criteria. Employers in the UK must have a good understanding of the qualifications and experience of the individual who is being transferred to the UK. Employers are required to ensure that the employee has enough relevant experience in the field they are going to be employed in. This experience must include either formal qualifications or previous employment experience. It is important to note that an employer can refuse to employ an individual without sufficient evidence of their skills and experience.

In addition to this, there are also requirements for transferring an employee from one country to another, such as obtaining a work permit. An employer must ensure that any transfer between countries is legally sound and all necessary documents are in place.

It is essential to make sure that all relevant documents and qualifications are in place before attempting to transfer employees from Japan to the UK. This is especially important if you are planning to move an employee with limited experience or qualifications. As an employer, you should consider whether additional training or qualifications are necessary for the employee, to ensure that they are able to perform their role effectively when they arrive in the UK. Additionally, employers should also consider what type of support will be available to their employees upon arrival in the UK, such as language classes or job-search assistance.

Requirements for obtaining these visas and work permits

When transferring employees from Japan to the UK, it is important to be aware of the various visa and work permit requirements for entry.

The first step in obtaining a visa and/or work permit is to determine if the employee meets all the eligibility criteria. Generally, the eligibility criteria include age, education level, work experience, and language proficiency.

Once the eligibility criteria have been met, the employer must then apply for a visa and/or work permit on behalf of the employee. Depending on the type of job and length of stay, different types of visas may be available. The most common types of visas are skilled worker visas and Tier 5 temporary worker visas.

To apply for a visa, the employer must submit an application package containing documents such as proof of identity, passport photos, educational certificates, proof of job offer, and proof of funds. In addition to this, the employer may also need to provide proof of accommodation, and documents detailing the terms of employment.

After submitting the application package, the employer will usually receive notification regarding their decision within 6-8 weeks. If approved, the employee will then receive an official letter stating that they have been granted a visa.

CGM is a corporate immigration application for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Feel free to contact us on 0300 000 000 or send us an email if you have any questions. 

In some cases, employers may need to obtain additional permits or licenses in order to employ foreign nationals in the UK. It is important to research these requirements before submitting an application package.

In addition to obtaining a visa, employers are responsible for making sure that employees have valid health insurance while in the UK. This can either be provided by the employer or purchased separately by the employee.

Finally, it is important to be aware of any restrictions that may be imposed on employees transferring from Japan to the UK. For example, there may be restrictions on what kind of work they can do or how long they can stay in the country.

Overall, employers should make sure to thoroughly research all visa and work permit requirements before attempting to transfer employees from Japan to the UK.

Housing and Relocation

When transferring employees from Japan to the UK, it’s important to consider their housing needs. Depending on the circumstances of the employee, there are a variety of housing options available.

If the transfer is for work or business purposes, then the employee will likely be looking for short-term furnished accommodation. There are numerous short-term rental companies in the UK, which offer furnished apartments and houses for those who are looking for a more comfortable stay.

For those transferring to the UK to study, there are student accommodation options available. Universities often provide their own dorms or hostels for students, while other accommodation is provided by private providers.

When it comes to relocation, there are certain steps that need to be taken. Firstly, it’s important to research the cost of living in the UK so that the employee can make an informed decision on where they want to live. Secondly, the culture shock that comes with relocating from Japan to the UK should be taken into consideration. Thirdly, depending on the language skills of the employee, English classes may be necessary before or after their move.

In terms of finding a place to live, there are a number of housing services and real estate agents that can help with this process. It is also important to consider transportation needs when it comes to housing, as well as getting set up with a UK bank account. Finally, depending on the situation, a UK visa may be required in order for the employee to stay in the country.

In conclusion, when transferring employees from Japan to the UK, there are various housing and relocation needs that need to be addressed in order for the transition to be successful. Researching the cost of living, considering culture shock and language needs, and arranging for housing and transportation should all be taken into consideration. A UK visa may also be required depending on the situation.

Tax implications

Moving from Japan to the UK will have tax implications for both individuals and businesses. For individuals, their tax status in both countries must be taken into consideration. In Japan, any income made from working overseas is subject to taxes as if they were living in Japan. As a result, individuals who move to the UK may need to file a tax return in both countries.

For businesses, there may be additional taxes associated with transferring employees. Depending on the nature of the transfer, there may be taxes associated with hiring an employee in the UK, such as Social Security or payroll taxes. Additionally, businesses may need to pay taxes on any income generated in the UK if they are registered in Japan.

It is important to understand the different tax implications when transferring employees from Japan to the UK, as failure to do so could result in financial penalties or other legal issues. Consulting a professional tax specialist can ensure that all tax obligations are met.

Employment Contracts and Benefits (for work purposes)

Overview: Negotiating employment contracts and benefits for individuals who are moving to the UK from Japan for work purposes is an important process that should not be taken lightly. There are various differences in the employment laws between Japan and the UK that can affect the terms of the contract and associated benefits.

Discussion: One of the primary differences in employment law between Japan and the UK is the minimum wage. In Japan, there is no minimum wage set at a national level, however, some prefectures have implemented minimum wages of their own. In the UK, the national minimum wage is set by the government and currently stands at £8.72 per hour for those aged 25 and over. This difference should be taken into account when negotiating employment contracts.

Another important difference is in regard to holidays. In Japan, workers are entitled to 10 days of paid leave a year, while in the UK they are entitled to 28 days of paid leave per year, including bank holidays. When negotiating an employment contract, it is important to ensure that this difference is reflected in the terms of the agreement.

CGM is a corporate immigration application for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Feel free to contact us on 0300 000 000 or send us an email if you have any questions. 

When it comes to benefits, Japanese employers usually provide a range of benefits such as health insurance, travel allowance, and housing allowance. In the UK, most employers provide health insurance and some may also provide other benefits such as childcare vouchers and pension contributions. It is important to check with the employer to ensure that these benefits are provided and if not, they should be negotiated into the contract.

Conclusion: Negotiating employment contracts and benefits for individuals transferring from Japan to the UK for work purposes requires an understanding of the differences between the two countries’ employment laws. It is important to consider the minimum wage, holiday entitlements, and benefits when drawing up an employment contract for individuals transferring from Japan to the UK.

Starting a Business in the UK

If you’re looking to start a business in the UK from Japan, it is important to understand the legal and regulatory requirements. There are a few steps you need to take to ensure your business is properly registered and compliant with all regulations in the UK.

Discussion of Legal & Regulatory Requirements

Before setting up a business in the UK, you will need to register with Companies House. This is a government agency responsible for registering new companies and ensuring they comply with all legal requirements. You must choose a company name, which cannot be the same as an existing business in the UK. You must also provide detailed information on the type of business, registered address, directors and shareholders, and legal documents such as articles of association. Once your business is registered, you will need to obtain any relevant licenses and permits required to operate your business in the UK.

You must also comply with other regulations related to taxation, employment law, and health and safety. It is recommended that you seek professional legal advice to ensure that your business complies with all regulations. Finally, you will need to open a business bank account in order to receive payments from customers and pay suppliers and employees.

Starting a business in the UK from Japan can be a complex process, but it is possible with the right guidance and support. It is important to understand all the legal and regulatory requirements that must be met in order to set up and run a successful business in the UK.

Studying in the UK

For many individuals from Japan, studying in the UK can provide a unique and exciting opportunity to expand their knowledge and experience a new culture. In order to do so, however, there are a number of visa and enrollment requirements that must be met. Additionally, financial considerations should also be taken into account when considering a study abroad program in the UK.

Overview of the Process

In order to study in the UK, individuals must first obtain a visa. There are several different types of visas available, depending on the length of time an individual wishes to study in the UK. Additionally, proof of tuition payment or sufficient funds to cover tuition is also required. Once a visa is obtained, students must then complete the enrollment process at their chosen school. This includes providing official transcripts and other documents as requested by the institution.

Visa and Enrollment Requirements

Individuals from Japan must apply for either a Tier 4 (General) student visa or a Tier 4 (Child) student visa in order to study in the UK. The Tier 4 (General) student visa is for individuals aged 16 or over who are planning to study a degree-level course or above at an approved education provider. The Tier 4 (Child) student visa is for individuals aged between 4 and 17 who wish to study at an independent school in the UK. In addition to a valid visa, individuals must also provide proof of academic qualifications as well as any relevant documents required by the school.

Studying in the UK can be costly, as tuition fees vary greatly depending on the institution and type, of course, being studied. Additionally, living costs should also be taken into consideration, as accommodation and other expenses such as food and transportation can add up quickly. Students may be eligible for scholarships or other funding sources, so it’s important to research all available options. Additionally, students should be aware of any currency conversion fees when transferring funds from Japan to the UK.

Cultural and Social Adaptation when transferring from japan to the UK

When transferring employees from Japan to the UK, there are a variety of cultural and social differences that they should be aware of. These can include language, customs, lifestyle, and even food. To help employees prepare for the transition, it is important to inform them of these differences and what they should expect in the UK.

Language is an obvious difference between Japan and the UK, as English is the main language spoken in the UK. In order to help your employees prepare for their new home, you should consider providing language classes or other resources to help them learn English. Additionally, you should encourage your employees to familiarize themselves with local slang and idioms so that they can communicate more easily in their new environment.

Customs and lifestyles will also vary between Japan and the UK. This includes different religious holidays, clothing styles, mannerisms, and even cultural norms like greeting people with a bow or handshake. It is important to educate your employees on these differences before they arrive in the UK so that they can avoid any potential misunderstandings or social faux pas.

Food is another area of culture that differs between Japan and the UK. Traditional British dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and pasties are popular staples in the UK, while sushi and ramen remain favourites in Japan. It’s important to note that ingredients may differ between countries, so it may take some time for your employees to adjust to new flavours.

Overall, cultural and social adaptation will take some time for your employees to get used to their new environment. However, with proper preparation and education about the differences between Japan and the UK, this transition can be made smoother.

The cost involved in transferring from japan to UK

The cost of transferring employees from Japan to the UK will depend on a variety of factors, including the employee’s current salary and tax obligations, as well as the length of their stay in the UK.

In general, the primary costs associated with transferring an employee from Japan to the UK include:

• Travel expenses: This includes flight tickets, visas, and other fees related to the trip.

• Housing and relocation expenses: This includes rental deposits, furniture, and any other necessary costs related to setting up a new home in the UK.

• Tax Implications: Transferring to the UK may result in changes to your employee’s tax obligations. It is important to understand these implications before beginning the process.

• Employment Contracts and Benefits: Employees will need to be provided with contracts that are compliant with UK regulations. Depending on the length of stay, they may also need to be provided with certain benefits such as pension contributions and health insurance coverage.

• Starting a Business in the UK: If your employee plans to start a business in the UK, there will be additional costs associated with setting up a business in the country. This includes registering the company and paying any required taxes.

Overall, transferring an employee from Japan to the UK can be expensive and time-consuming. It is important to understand all of the costs involved in order to ensure that you are providing your employee with the best possible experience while they make the transition.

The visa application process

Once all necessary documents and information have been gathered and arrangements have been made for housing and relocation logistics, the next step is to begin the visa application process. This involves completing the online visa application form and submitting the required documents.

The online visa application form will ask for personal and contact information, as well as details about the employee’s job offer and qualifications. It is important to answer all questions accurately and truthfully, as providing false or misleading information may result in the visa being denied.

In addition to the online application form, the employee will also need to submit a range of supporting documents. This may include passport copies, CV, proof of employment, and any other relevant documents. It is important to ensure that all documents are complete and up-to-date, as incomplete or outdated documents may result in delays or rejection of the visa application.

Once the online application form and supporting documents have been submitted, the next step is to pay the visa fee. The visa fee for a skilled worker visa varies depending on the length of the visa and the type of application (e.g. standard or priority).

CGM is a corporate immigration application for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Feel free to contact us on 0300 000 000 or send us an email if you have any questions. 

After the visa fee has been paid, the final step in the visa application process is to schedule an appointment at the UK embassy or consulate in Japan for biometric enrolment and an interview (if required). During the biometric enrolment process, the employee will need to provide their fingerprints and a digital photograph. The interview, if

required, is an opportunity for the employee to provide further information and answer any questions the embassy or consulate may have about their application. It is important for the employee to be prepared for the interview and to answer all questions honestly and accurately.

Requirement for the CoS

Your company should possess an A-rated sponsor licence to be eligible to transfer an employee from Japan to the UK. Also, CoS issued more than three months before applying for the visa will not be considered valid.

The CoS granted to the employee about to be transferred should contain some important information including:

• Important details like their name, position, and remuneration
• Proof that they have been working for your company for 12 months in Japan or that they are making £73,900 or more annually
• A commencement date that is no later than three months from the date of submission of the visa application
• Proof that you haven’t revoked or the Home Office hasn’t rescinded the CoS after it was utilised in a prior application that was either approved or rejected.

Documents needed

The documents that need to be submitted along with the Senior or Specialist Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) application include:

• A document showing nationality and identity, like a passport
• CoS reference number
• occupation code of the job
• title and yearly compensation of the position offered
• sponsor licence number and name of your company
• statements showing the financial condition of the applicant, like bank statements. You can also choose to support the employee you are transferring. In this case, the financial statement is not required.
• If your employee wishes to bring their partner and children with them into the country, they should also submit documents validating their relationship with them.

An application fee should also be paid along with the visa application. The fee is £625 per individual for up to three years. If you wish to apply for more than three years, the fee is £1,235 for each individual.

CGM is a corporate immigration application for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Feel free to contact us on 0300 000 000 or send us an email if you have any questions. 

If you wish to keep the employee in the same position in the U.K. for an extended period, the visa can be renewed, provided the maximum allowed total stay is not crossed. The maximum stay is:

• five years at an annual salary of less than £73,900
• nine years for an annual salary of £73,900 or more.

The Senior or Specialist Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) is a great way to transfer talented and energetic minds working in your company branch in Japan to the UK. This will help you grow and prosper with people who already have experience with your organisational processes.

Common reasons for visa refusals from Japan to the UK

There are several common reasons why a visa application from Japan may be refused. These include:

1. Incomplete or missing documents: It is important to ensure that all necessary documents are complete and up-to-date, as incomplete or outdated documents may result in a visa refusal.
2. False or misleading information: Providing false or misleading information on a visa application may result in a refusal.
3. Lack of evidence of ties to Japan: Some visa categories require applicants to demonstrate that they have strong ties to Japan, such as a job, family, or property. If an applicant cannot demonstrate these ties, their visa application may be refused.
4. Insufficient funds: Some visa categories require applicants to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves while in the UK. If an applicant cannot demonstrate sufficient funds, their visa application may be refused.
5. Criminal history: If an applicant has a criminal history, their visa application may be refused.
6. Health concerns: If an applicant has a medical condition that may pose a threat to public health or safety, their visa application may be refused.
7. Previous immigration violations: If an applicant has previously violated immigration laws, their visa application may be refused.
8. Lack of intention to return to Japan: Some visa categories require applicants to demonstrate that they have a genuine intention to return to Japan after their stay in the UK. If an applicant cannot demonstrate this intention, their visa application may be refused.

Conclusion

Transferring employees from Japan to the UK can be a complex process, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be a successful endeavour. To make the transition easier, it is important to ensure that your employees meet the eligibility criteria, understand the cost involved, and have access to the proper paperwork and documentation for their visas and work permits. Additionally, employers should provide guidance for housing and relocation needs, cultural and social adaptation, as well as English language learning. With the right preparation and understanding of the process, your employees can make the transition from Japan to the UK smoothly and successfully

How we can help

CGM App is an end to end immigration software, designed for expats, employers and immigration consultants (all over the world), that help to fine tune the process and scale of global business immigration for each user. 

Visit cgmpartner.org.uk/register for more information.

Frequently asked questions

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