Benefits, Tax Advice and Support on Arrival
This page supports providers to help international recruits navigate financial systems, benefits rules, tax requirements, and advice services when they arrive in the UK. Early, clear support reduces anxiety, promotes financial stability, and supports long-term retention.
Financial Support on Arrival
International recruits may arrive in the UK with limited or no access to funds. It is good practice for sponsoring organisations to provide early financial support, such as:
- A salary advance or hardship payment
- Covering initial living costs until banking is established
This is particularly important where recruits may not have previously earned at UK wage levels.
Understanding Living Costs
In addition to housing costs, providers may need to explain:
- Utility bills (gas, electricity, water, council tax)
- Payment schedules and responsibilities
- How to set up accounts and direct debits
Some employers choose to:
- Cover utility costs for the first month
- Provide practical guidance as part of induction or a welcome pack
Essential Documents and Accounts
As soon as possible after arrival, recruits must:
- Open a UK bank account
- Collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Apply for a National Insurance (NI) number
These are essential for:
- Receiving salary
- Paying tax and NI contributions
- Accessing housing and services
- Building a UK credit history
Opening a Bank Account
Recruits should be encouraged to:
- Research local banks and account options
- Check whether online or in-branch applications are available
Typically required:
- Passport
- Proof of address
- Employment details
Once approved, they will receive account details and a debit card.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Recruits select a BRP collection point during their visa application.
- This is usually a local Post Office.
- They must collect their BRP within 10 days of arrival after receiving confirmation from UKVI, or they may be fined.
The BRP confirms:
- Immigration status
- Right to live and work in the UK
www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits
National Insurance Number
After receiving their BRP, recruits can apply for a National Insurance number via Jobcentre Plus.
- Application involves a short eligibility check
- Some applicants may be required to attend an interview
- The NI number is issued by post
www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number
Benefits and Public Funds
International care workers on Skilled Worker visas:
- Cannot access most benefits or the State Pension
- Are subject to the “no recourse to public funds” condition
Eligibility depends on immigration status. Recruits can:
- Check GOV.UK guidance on public funds
- Seek help from an accredited advice service
www.gov.uk/government/publications/public-funds--2/public-funds
General Advice Services
Independent advice services can help recruits understand:
- Benefits and public funds
- Immigration and family issues
- Debt, money and budgeting
- Employment rights
- Housing and healthcare access
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice offers free, confidential support across England and Wales.
Recruits can:
- Search for their nearest service online
- Access advice by phone, email, appointment or drop-in
- Use online self-help resources
Not all Citizens Advice services provide immigration advice, so providers should encourage recruits to check local availability.
Local Advice Services
Across Hampshire, Southampton, Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight, advice is available through:
- Citizens Advice services
- Local authority advice partnerships
- Community advice organisations
These services can provide practical help with:
- Form filling
- Understanding eligibility
- Contacting government departments
Tax Advice
Providers and recruits may need additional support with:
- Income tax
- National Insurance
- PAYE and tax codes
Key resources:
Free Tax Advice
- TaxAid – free, confidential tax advice for people on low incomes
- Citizens Advice tax teams (including specialist services on the Isle of Wight)
Good Practice for Providers
- Include financial and benefits guidance in induction packs
- Revisit information during supervision or probation
- Avoid assumptions about financial literacy or UK systems
- Clearly explain what support is and is not available
- Signpost independent advice early
Supporting recruits to understand finances, benefits and tax reduces stress, supports wellbeing, and helps ensure ethical and sustainable international recruitment.
