Work permits have been explained as new Liverpool boss Arne Slot waits for the green light

Liverpool’s new head coach Arne Slot has a hurdle to overcome before his era can officially begin at Anfield.

On Monday night, football’s worst-kept secret was finally revealed when the Reds announced that Slot would be Jurgen Klopp’s successor. The 45-year-old former Feyenoord boss will officially start work on June 1, but there is a caveat.

The club announced that his appointment is conditional on receiving a work permit from the UK government. But what it is and how likely Slot is to get one, the ECHO took a closer look.

READ MORE: Every word Klopp has to say about Slot

READ MORE: Dutch pundit explains why Slot is perfect for Liverpool

What is a work permit?

In simple terms, if you are not a resident of the UK, you need to apply for a work permit to be entitled to a job in the country.

How will it work for Slot?

As a qualified coach, Slot must apply for an international athlete visa. The Dutchman will also have to demonstrate that he is internationally established in this area and that his employment will “develop football at the highest level”.

Liverpool will need to prove that they hold an Employer Sponsorship Licence, which allows them to offer jobs at the Slot. Once this is received, the former Feyenoord manager can apply for UK entry clearance.

How long will this take?

Permits can be applied for up to three months before the day the Slot is due to start working in the UK. A decision is likely to be made within three weeks if the Slot is in the UK or within eight weeks if outside.

The visa lasts for three years before being extended. This process is straightforward as long as the circumstances of Slot’s employment do not change.

After five years, Slot can settle permanently in the UK if he has had at least one visa that lasted more than 12 months.

Is this a foregone conclusion that he will be given one?

Ultimately yes. Liverpool must be feeling confident after announcing his arrival, and as long as there are no problems in Slot’s past, he should be sent off without a hitch.