Understanding the complexities of visa advertising and labour market testing can be a daunting task for HR professionals. The Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) is a crucial part of the process, ensuring that every opportunity is given to resident workers before a job is offered to a non-resident. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the RLMT, visa advert requirements, and the intricacies of labour market testing. By mastering these elements, HR professionals can navigate the visa process more efficiently and effectively.
Understanding the Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT)
The RLMT is a process that employers must undertake before hiring a worker from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. The purpose of the RLMT is to protect the local labour market and ensure that there are no suitable resident workers who can fill the position. The RLMT requires employers to advertise the job in the UK for a minimum period, typically 28 days, before offering it to a non-resident worker.
Key Requirements of the RLMT
There are several key requirements that employers must meet when conducting the RLMT. These include:
- The job must be advertised in the UK for at least 28 days.
- The advertisement must be in English and include specific details about the job, such as the job title, job description, location, salary, and skills and qualifications required.
- The job must be advertised in at least two places, one of which must be the government’s Find a Job service.
- If the job is in a shortage occupation, the RLMT does not need to be conducted.
Visa Advert Requirements
When advertising a job as part of the RLMT, there are specific requirements that must be met. These requirements ensure that the job advert is accessible and provides all the necessary information for potential applicants.
Key Visa Advert Requirements
Key requirements for visa adverts include:
- The advert must include the job title, job description, location, and salary.
- The advert must state the skills and qualifications required for the job.
- The advert must be posted for at least 28 days in a row on two different platforms.
- The advert must be in English.
Labour Market Testing
Labour market testing is a broader concept that includes the RLMT. It involves assessing the availability of suitable workers in the local labour market before hiring from overseas. Labour market testing is used in many countries to protect local workers and ensure that overseas workers are only hired when necessary.
Conducting Labour Market Testing
Conducting labour market testing involves several steps:
- Identifying the skills and qualifications required for the job.
- Advertising the job in the local market.
- Assessing the responses to the job advert.
- If no suitable local candidates are found, considering hiring from overseas.
Conclusion
Mastering the RLMT, understanding visa advert requirements, and conducting effective labour market testing are essential skills for HR professionals. By ensuring that these processes are conducted correctly, employers can protect local workers, meet their legal obligations, and find the best candidate for the job, whether they are from the local market or overseas.
