Can I Join the Apple Developer Program on a UK Skilled Worker Visa if I’m Not Publishing to the App Store?

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swift-coder OP

Created Oct ’24

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Hi everyone,

I’m currently learning Swift application development for Apple devices and I’m eager to get the latest knowledge and features that Apple offers. My goal is to test sample apps on my iPhone, primarily for learning, and I have no intention of selling or publishing anything on the iOS App Store.

I’m curious if I am legally allowed to join the Apple Developer Program given that I’m on a UK skilled worker visa. Would this impact my ability to enroll?

Thanks for your help!

Apple Developer License

UK Skilled Worker Visa: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

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Answer 1

endecotp OP

Oct ’24

I don’t believe that Apple asks about your immigration status when you apply (and nor should they).

The agreement is not an employment contract, so my guess is that it should not have any implications regarding your visa compliance - but you should definitely get legal advice about that if you are at all concerned.

If you actually start to sell apps then you will need to register as self-employed with HMRC, and again you should get legal advice about that when the time comes if you are at all concerned. Make sure you retain all the paperwork.

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