Work permits for children

All young people aged 13 or over, who are of compulsory school age and are working, must by law have a work permit.

This is the case even if they are working for their parents. Children under the age of 13 are not allowed to work.

All applications for work permits for children are free and must be made by the employer.

Employers can be prosecuted if they:

  • do not obtain a work permit for their school age employees
  • employ school age children in a job they are not allowed to do
  • allow school age children to work outside the hours permitted by law.

The Association of British Insurers has stated that unless a child has a valid work permit, they may not be included under the employer's liability insurance.

To apply for a work permit for a child, please download the guidance notes and work permit application form.

For further information contact:

Child Employment Team

Tower Hamlets Town Hall
160 Whitechapel Road
London
E1 1BJ

Tel: 020 7364 5006
Email: child.employment@towerhamlets.gov.uk