A person who does not have permission to work in the UK can usually undertake volunteer roles. However, they cannot undertake ‘voluntary work’.
The distinction between the two can seem nuanced, but generally ‘volunteer work’ is a more formal arrangement and there are contractual obligations to carry out the work. Please see the National Council for Voluntary Organisations for more information on this distinction between ‘volunteering’ and ‘volunteer work’.
People seeking asylum can volunteer but not to undertake employment unless they have been granted permission to work. Government guidance provides further detail on this.
Some visas prevent or restrict some people from volunteering. For example, EU nationals on a visitor visa can only volunteer for up to 30 days. If a person is unsure about their right to volunteer, it is important they can check the information on the government’s website for their specific route and seek advice from an immigration adviser or voluntary advice centre if needed.
