Getting a job in the UK as a foreigner can seem daunting, but it is very possible with the right preparations and approach. The UK has a skills shortage in certain sectors, meaning they actively welcome foreign workers to fill roles. However, you need to ensure you have the right to work and follow the proper processes. Here is a comprehensive guide on how foreigners can get a job in the UK.
What are the requirements to work in the UK?
The main requirements for a foreigner to work in the UK are:
- Having the right to work – this usually means having a work visa or another immigration status that permits employment
- Meeting the skills, experience and qualifications needed for the job role
- For some jobs, having any necessary registrations or checks
The type of work visa or status you need depends on your nationality and circumstances. The main options are:
- Skilled Worker Visa – for skilled workers with a job offer in the UK paying at least £25,600 or the going rate for their occupation
- Youth Mobility Scheme – for young people from certain countries to work temporarily in the UK
- Family visa – for partners/spouses and dependents of UK residents or citizens
- Temporary work visa – for short-term contractual work under 6 or 12 months
- EU Settlement Scheme – for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens living in the UK before 2021
- Ancestry visa – for Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent
Some nationalities can come to the UK for work more easily than others due to visa requirements. Do your research to determine which visa you would be eligible for.
How can you find job vacancies?
There are several good methods to find available jobs in the UK as a foreigner:
- Generalist job sites – Like Indeed, TotalJobs, Reed.co.uk, Monster, etc. These have a wide range of vacancies.
- Specialist/industry sites – For certain sectors like tech, finance, healthcare, etc.
- Company career pages – Check websites of companies you want to work for.
- Recruitment agencies – Sign up with ones specialising in your industry.
- Networking – Speak to contacts, attend industry events.
- Social media – Follow relevant pages/groups and connect with professionals.
- Newspapers/industry publications – Read classified sections.
When searching for jobs, make use of relevant keywords for your profession and skills. Be open to job titles that match your experience but aren’t your exact role. Sign up for job alerts to get notified of the latest vacancies.
How can you make your application stand out?
When applying for jobs as a foreigner, you need to make extra effort to stand out from the competition. Useful tips include:
- Highlight your right to work status – Mention your visa type if you already have one.
- Show your connection to the UK – If you’ve worked/studied in the UK before, or have contacts there.
- Emphasize transferable skills – Tailor your experience to the job description.
- Mention if you speak multiple languages.
- Address cultural fit – Research the norms and values of British workplaces.
- Follow up after applying – This shows your interest in the role.
- Use numbers and results – Quantify your achievements e.g. percentages, savings.
- Get your application reviewed – By a native English speaker.
Also take care to follow the application instructions exactly. Send any additional required documents like a cover letter.
What else can help you secure a job?
As well as a strong application, some other tips that can boost your chances of getting hired in the UK are:
- Networking – Use your contacts to discover unadvertised jobs.
- Headhunters/recruiters – They can match you to suitable openings.
- Speculative applications – Apply directly to companies even without a vacancy.
- Localisation – Get your qualifications/experience recognised in the UK.
- Volunteering – Demonstrates your commitment to work in the UK.
- Internships – Can lead to a full-time job.
- Social media – Build your professional profile.
Preparing for interviews is also key. Research the company and role thoroughly and practice answering common questions. Brush up on your interview etiquette too.
What are the best industries to find work?
Some of the top industries for foreigners to find work in the UK include:
- Tech – Shortages of software developers, programmers, IT support, cyber security specialists etc.
- Engineering – Civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, aerospace engineers in demand.
- Accounting and finance – Qualified accountants and auditors needed.
- Construction – Skilled tradespeople sought after due to major projects.
- Healthcare – Nurses, doctors and other medical/health professionals.
- Education – Teachers at all levels with subject specialties.
- Hospitality – Chefs, waiters and other roles are available.
Shortages also exist for skilled manual/technical jobs like mechanics, electricians, plumbers and machine operators.
Which UK cities offer the most jobs?
The top cities and regions to find work as a foreigner in the UK are:
City/Region | Key Industries/Opportunities |
---|---|
London | Finance, tech startups, arts, accounting, law, marketing |
South East England | Technology, pharmaceuticals,aerospace, healthcare |
Scotland (Edinburgh, Glasgow) | Renewables, engineering, finance, tech |
Manchester | Technology, engineering, media, retail headquarters |
Birmingham | Manufacturing, engineering, technology, business services |
Major cities provide the most opportunities overall. But also consider jobs in surrounding areas which are still commutable.
What salaries can you expect?
Salaries in the UK vary significantly by job, experience level and location. Here are sample average salaries for popular roles:
Role | Average Salary Range |
---|---|
Software developer | £35,000 – £70,000 |
Electrical engineer | £30,000 – £50,000 |
Project manager | £30,000 – £60,000 |
Marketing manager | £30,000 – £60,000 |
Accountant | £25,000 – £60,000 |
Teacher | £25,000 – £40,000 |
Nurse | £24,000 – £40,000 |
London and South East England pay higher, while Northern regions pay less. Do extensive research on salaries to negotiate effectively.
What are the challenges you may face?
Some key challenges foreigners may face when seeking work in the UK include:
- Visa/immigration restrictions – Requirements can be difficult to meet.
- Cultural differences – In work styles and expectations.
- Language barrier – For non-native English speakers.
- Recognition of foreign qualifications – Degrees/certificates may not be recognised.
- Lack of UK work experience – Employers prefer to see this.
- Discrimination – Unfortunately still an issue in some cases.
- Homesickness/loneliness – Being away from family and friends.
- High cost of living – Especially housing in cities like London.
- Competition for jobs – Is still quite tough in the UK.
Being aware of these challenges and taking steps to address them will help your move go more smoothly. Joining expat groups can help with transition concerns.
What are the advantages of working in the UK?
There are also many advantages to living and working in the UK as a foreigner:
- Opportunity to progress career – In major global industries.
- Platform to travel – Conveniently located for Europe and beyond.
- Exposure to diversity – Over 300 languages spoken across the UK.
- World-class education – For those coming with family.
- Rich cultural life – Food, arts, sports, history, music and more to experience.
- Good work-life balance – Paid vacation time and maternity/paternity leave.
- Leadership in innovation – Cutting-edge research and tech developments.
- Strong economy – 5th largest in the world with opportunities in many fields.
Taking the step to move abroad to the UK for work can greatly expand your personal and professional horizons.
Conclusion
While securing a job in a new country is never straightforward, there are abundant opportunities in the UK for foreigners with the right skills and preparation. Following the tips outlined here and conducting extensive research into visas, the job market and application norms will help maximise your chances of success.With persistence and patience, you can achieve your goal of landing a great job and life in the UK.