There are many reasons to live and work in the United Kingdom, including an excellent healthcare system, a rich history spanning thousands of years, and an excellent educational system. Finding work is one of the most important things for newcomers to do after they arrive because they will need a source of income if they intend to stay in the UK for an extended period of time. It's easy to see why working as a foreign worker in the United Kingdom is one of the most popular options. Living and working in the United Kingdom offers something for everyone because of its diverse opportunities and distinct cultures. This guide aims to assist you in finding work in the UK, regardless of your industry or desired location.

It's critical to understand that finding work in the UK, even if you're from there, isn't always easy. Some companies would rather hire people who are already citizens of the country. Finding work in the UK, on the other hand, isn't difficult if you know where to look, how to market yourself, and how to apply properly. This handbook will help foreign nationals looking for work in the UK at every stage of the process, from applying for jobs and attending interviews to dealing with immigration paperwork.

Working as a foreigner in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is an excellent place for ambitious graduates to begin their careers, with the world's sixth-largest economy, numerous significant cities hosting major businesses, and several international business hubs. However, regulations are changing as the country prepares to leave the EU at the end of 2020. The first step in looking for a new job is to familiarize yourself with the UK job market. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the overall unemployment rate in the United Kingdom will be 3.8% in June 2022. Although graduate jobs are competitive, those with the necessary credentials, skills, and experience stand a good chance of landing one.

Salaries and Working Conditions in the United Kingdom

Because such terms and conditions are specified in the employment contract, your employer cannot change the terms of your employment after you sign it. Every employee is entitled to a formal contract. Your weekly working hours must also be specified in the job contract. Full-time workers usually work 35 to 40 hours per week. The longest workweek, however, is 48 hours.

The national minimum wage in the United Kingdom is then updated on an annual basis. In April 2024, it was as follows:

  • £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 United Kingdom?

Right now, there are several shortage occupations in the United Kingdom. According to the Visa Bureau, the most sought-after jobs in the UK are in engineering, health, arts and entertainment, and some teaching positions (such as foreign languages). Here are some popular jobs and their 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)

Work Requirements in the United Kingdom

Before beginning work in the United Kingdom, foreign nationals must obtain a work visa. Language abilities are also required for employment in the UK. To find work in the UK, you must be fluent in English. You may also be required to demonstrate your English language proficiency in order to obtain a work visa. You will have a distinct advantage over many British applicants if you are fluent in a language other than English.

How to Look for Work in the United Kingdom

It will be difficult to find work in the UK when one dose not know where to search for jobs. The UK government website has a list of the country's talent shortages. Furthermore, foreign nationals seeking employment have access to a plethora of job websites and tools. Enter "visa sponsorship" into the search field on these websites to get a list of jobs that may 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 have found a job in the UK, you must prepare your application. Most jobs in the UK can be applied for online by submitting a CV (resume) and cover letter in the UK format, or by filling out an application form.

Job applications in the United Kingdom are typically in the form of an application form (often available online) that includes a personal statement in which you must demonstrate that you meet the person specification or a request for a CV and a covering letter (which should cover the same areas as a personal statement). Learn more about resumes and cover letters.

To begin your job search, go to any of the websites listed above.