This applies if you work full time for at least 18 months within any 2 year period.
You don’t need to work for 18 months in a row, or in the same job. Full time work is an average of 30 hours a week.
You may not work 30 hours every week. If this is the case, you can average your work hours over a period of up to 13 weeks.
Paid work includes:
- paid leave
- overseas work
- unpaid leave due to employer shutdown outside of your control
- full time apprenticeships and traineeships.
See if you’re considered independent using the check independence through work history tool.