Last minute busking in London?

[emmacharlotte]

Okay, so I've had like five different people give me five different answers on this, but I'm in need of some knowledge ASAP.

I'm an American citizen, been playing music professionally for around four years. A busking friend of mine has been trying to convince me to head to London (where he plays) and busk over there, but I'm without a work permit.

How risky is it to busk for money over there without a work permit? I'd rather not go to jail or get deported, but it'd be a nice way to make money over there and make my travels easier.

Or if you have a way to get a permit or visa, you would be my hero and I'd be indebted to you for a long time.