I'm a work-permit holder but have lost my job

In theory, the employer must notify the Home Office about any redundancy of people on a work permit. The Home Office would then send a letter to the ex-employee giving him 28 days to leave the UK.

In reality, employers seldom notify the Home Office and thus the work-permit holder may stay for the duration of his visa (the stamp in the passport, not to be confused with the permit itself); this usually allows for finding another employment for which a new permit would have to be processed.

Beware that under no circumstances should you stay in the UK beyond your visa expiry date or beyond the Home Office's notice term, if received.  If you leave the UK, you may not come back in on your (unexpired) work visa because the basis of the entry clearance (employment) no longer exists.

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