Background

This page explains the work permit criteria for boxing valid from 1 February 2008. These criteria were agreed following consultation with the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC).

This criteria is supplementary guidance to the published employer guidance notes and both sets of guidance should be referred to when making an application.

The boxer will usually have come to the United Kingdom prior to the application to undertake those checks, for example medical examinations, required by the BBBC before they will be prepared to issue a licence. Once the BBBC has confirmed whether they will issue a licence, the boxer will need to return overseas.

Length of season

This is an all year round sport.

Criteria for boxers

When the UK Border Agency receive an application they will request confirmation from the BBBC that they are prepared to issue a licence.

If the BBBC confirm that the boxer meets the requirements then a permit may be issued.

The person should not commence work until they have received approval from the UK Border Agency and their BBBC licence.

Exceptional amateurs may be issued a work permit to box as professionals in the United Kingdom, subject to the BBBC issuing a licence.

Criteria for trainers and related occupations

Applications for boxing related occupations, such as trainers, managers and promoters, also require a BBBC license. As with a professional boxer, the issuing of a licence indicates that the individual meets the required standard. The process for approval will follow the lines above.

Other licensing requirements

Employers would normally be managers, promoters or trainers, all of whom need a BBBC licence. Confirmation of this from the BBBC can be accepted to establish an employer in the boxing industry.

If an employer is not licensed by the BBBC then documentation should be submitted to the UK Border Agency to establish the employer in line with our guidance notes. However, the application should include evidence that the employees for example. the trainer, are licensed with the BBBC, where appropriate.

We will also check the employer's licences with the BBBC when considering an application.

Length of issue

Permits are normally approved for 12 months in line with the duration of the BBBC licence.

Salary

The salary is usually agreed as part of the contract between the individual boxer or trainer and their employer. This and the other conditions of employment should be at least equal to those normally given to a 'resident worker' for this work. Where the salary quoted appears to be lower than expected we will seek information and advice from the sports' governing bodies and fighters' representatives.

Renewal applications (extensions)

At extension stage, employers should provide evidence of contests and details of the individual's earnings since approval. This will be taken into account when considering whether or not the permit can be extended. It will be the responsibility of the employer and individual to ensure that any further application for an extension is received in good time to allow for the above procedure. When the UK Border Agency receive an application they will request confirmation from the BBBC that they are prepared to issue a licence. The person should not work until they have received approval for further leave to remain and their BBBC licence. When approved, the individual will be required to supply the BBBC with a copy of their leave to remain stamp in their passport in order for the BBBC to issue the licence.