Work in the United Kingdom as Foreigner – Ultimate Guide

There are many reasons to live and work in the United Kingdom, including an excellent healthcare system, a rich history dating back thousands of years, and an excellent educational system. Finding work is one of the most crucial things for newcomers to do once they arrive since, if they intend to stay in the UK for any length of time, they will need a means of support.

It’s understandable why working as a foreign worker in the UK is one of the most sought-after options worldwide. Living and working in the UK offers something different to everyone because of its wide range of opportunities and distinctive cultures. No matter what industry you’re in or where you wish to live, this guide attempts to assist you in finding employment in the UK.

It’s important to understand that, even if you’re from the UK, it’s not always simple to obtain employment there. Some firms favor hiring citizens who are already residents of the nation. But getting work in the UK isn’t tough once you know where to look, how to promote yourself, and how to apply appropriately. This handbook will aid foreign nationals looking for employment in the UK at every stage of the process, from submitting applications and attending interviews to the handling required immigration paperwork.

Working in the United Kingdom as a Foreigner

With the sixth-largest economy in the world, the UK’s numerous significant cities hosting major businesses, and several international business hubs, the UK is the ideal spot for ambitious graduates to launch their careers. However, regulations are altering due to the nation’s departure from the EU at the end of 2020.

The first step in looking for a new job is familiarizing yourself with the UK job market. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that in June 2022, the UK’s overall unemployment rate was 3.8%. Although there is intense competition for graduate jobs, those with the necessary credentials, abilities, and experience stand a decent chance of landing a position.

Working Conditions and Salaries in the United Kingdom

Your employer cannot change the terms of your employment after you sign the employment contract because it stipulates such terms and conditions. Every worker is entitled to request a formal contract. Additionally, the job contract must include information about your weekly working hours. For full-time employees, they are typically 35 to 40 hours per week. The most extended workweek is 48 hours, though.

Then, the UK national minimum wage is updated each year. From April 2022, it stands at:

• £9.50 per hour for employees aged 23 and above;
• Between £6.83 and £9.18 per hour for employees aged 18–22;
• £4.81 per hour for apprentices

What are the Most In-Demand Jobs in the UK?

There are currently several shortage occupations in the United Kingdom. According to the Visa Bureau of the UK, the most sought-after jobs are in engineering, health, arts and entertainment, and some teaching positions (such as foreign languages). Here’s an example of some popular jobs and their respective annual salaries.

• Teacher – 24,300 GBP (31,500 USD) to 121,700 (157,000 USD), depending on years worked and location.
• Accountant – 62,000 GBP (80,000 USD)
• Nurse – 23,000 GBP (30,000 USD)
• Software Engineer – ranges from 38,000 GBP (49,000 USD) to 79,000 GBP (100,000 USD), depending on experience level.
• Architect – 27,000 to 35,000 GBP (35,000 – 45,000 USD)
• Marketing Manager – 35,000- 39,000 GBP (45,000- 50,000 USD), depending on experience.
• Product Manager – 55,000 GBP (71,000 USD) in London.
• Web Developer – ranges from 19,500 GBP (25,000 USD) to 62,000 GBP (80,000 USD), depending on experience.
• UX Designer – 62,000 to 87,000 GBP (80,000 – 113,000 USD)

Requirements for Work in the United Kingdom

Before beginning employment in the United Kingdom, foreign nationals must obtain a work visa. Language skills are another prerequisite for employment in the UK. To find employment in the UK, you must be able to speak English. You might also need to demonstrate your English language ability to obtain a work visa. However, you will be at a distinct advantage over many British applicants if you are fluent in a language other than English.

How to Find Jobs in the United Kingdom

In the UK, finding employment will not be simple. You may look at the UK government website to get a list of the country’s talent shortages. Additionally, numerous job websites and tools are available to those looking for employment prospects as foreign nationals. You should type “visa sponsorship” into the search field on these websites to acquire a list of jobs that might sponsor a work visa.

• Jobs.ac.uk
• The Guardian
• The Independent (has jobs mainly in the areas of accounting, technology, and education)
• Career Jet
• Glassdoor
• Indeed
• Jobsite
• Monster
• Gov. uk (Government-run job site.)
• Manpower: (Recruitment agency)

How to Apply for Work in the United Kingdom

Once you’ve found a job in the UK, you need to prepare your application. In the UK, you can apply for most jobs online by sending a UK-style CV (resume) and cover letter or by filling out an application form.

UK job applications tend to take the form of either an application form (often available online) that includes a personal statement where you need to demonstrate that you meet the person specification or a request for a CV together with a covering letter (which should cover the same areas as a personal statement). Learn more about writing CVs and cover letters.

Bottom Line

The United Kingdom has been an employment hub for many years and will continue to be so. There are many job opportunities in many different sectors across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While many foreigners can work remotely from their home country, some must first obtain a visa to enter the United States on an employment-based visa. Understanding your possibilities and how to obtain work in each UK location is crucial. As with any other job search, it is important to research companies that interest you and make sure they offer benefits that match your needs. It is also essential to understand how salaries work in each sector because wages vary greatly depending on where you live.