How to find a job in the UK: a guide for foreign job seekers

Finding a job as a foreigner is a challenging process. However, with an exciting job market and a wealth of in-demand roles, you might find that your next dream role is just around the corner – or across the sea – here in the United Kingdom. In the following guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to get a job in the UK. 

Getting a job in the UK – your visa options 

The good news: it's possible to get a job in the UK as a foreigner. However, you'll need to secure the right documentation first. Let's take a look at how to get a job in the UK with visa sponsorship:

Skilled Worker visa

With very few exceptions, you'll need a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK. For this visa, you'll need to have a complete job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.

You can find a full list of the covered sectors and the roles here. To gain this type of visa, a certificate of sponsorship from an employer is a must. You also need to meet certain minimum salary conditions based on your field of work.

Each job under this type of visa will have its own set of requirements, which may include qualifications and training. Often, similar-sounding positions will have different eligibility requirements; for example, a chef is considered a highly skilled position, but a cook is not. 

Graduate visa

If you completed your degree in the UK, you may be able to get a Graduate visa instead. 

This visa replaces your existing Student visa and allows you to stay in the UK for a minimum of two years (three if you have a PhD or doctoral qualification) after completing an eligible course. Your course provider will need to notify the Home Office when you've finished your studies.

You must then make sure that you apply online for this type of visa before you start looking for graduate positions. Unfortunately, not all employers will hire graduates with this immigration status, so check on visa requirements with a hiring manager to avoid disappointment.

If you’re wondering how to get a job in the UK without experience, this may be your best option. 

Health and Care Worker visa

If you have a healthcare qualification and experience working in a medical setting, you may be eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa. This visa allows you to gain employment in NHS jobs, with an NHS supplier, or in adult social care. Once again, you'll need to have a certificate of sponsorship from an employer that has been approved by the Home Office. 

Scale-up Worker visa 

Fancy working in some of the fastest-growing industries in the UK? The Scale-up Worker visa allows you to stay for two years when you’re sponsored by an employer. To gain this type of visa, you'll need to have a six-month job offer from an approved scale-up business, have a certificate of sponsorship, and make sure the role is listed in the eligible occupations. 

Other visa options

While the above options are the main visas you can get, they are not the only ones. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be eligible for other types of visas which will allow you to work in the UK. You can check out the other available visas on this portal. 

English language requirements 

You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of English when you apply for your visa. You’ll need to be able to read, write, speak and understand English to at least B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. 

Proof of competency can be achieved by passing a test from an approved provider, having a recognised qualification gained at a UK school, or having a degree-level qualification that was taught in English. 

Doctors, Dentists, Nurses and Midwives don’t need to prove their English skills if they’ve already passed an English Language assessment accepted by their regulated professional body; there’s also a list of certain countries whose nationals are exempt from the requirement. 

How old do you have to be to get a job in the UK?

In addition to having the necessary visa, applicants must also be at least 16 years of age in order to secure full-time work. Your children may be able to join you as dependents, instead. 

Industries looking for foreign workers

The UK government regularly updates its shortage occupation list for skilled workers. You should check this list to see which roles suit your existing set of hard and soft skills. 

Some industries to consider include:

• Information Technology (IT)

• Healthcare

• Education

• Engineering & Construction

• Retail

• Finance

You may be surprised to learn that in addition to positions in IT, engineering, and sustainability, highly skilled artistic roles are also in high demand. Dancers and musicians, however, must meet standards required by internationally recognised UK dance companies and orchestras.

What is the easiest way to find a job in the UK?

Now that you understand the legal requirements of how to get a job in the UK as a foreigner, let's talk about logistics. Whether you need sponsorship, are looking for a graduate job, or are currently in the UK with right-to-work documents, here are some of the tactics you may want to consider: 

Use the power of LinkedIn

In the UK, LinkedIn has over 44 million users and is the top platform for professional networking. With 85% of UK jobs filled through networking and 70% of roles not advertised publicly, it's essential that you include LinkedIn as part of your job search. 

Expert tip: Optimise your LinkedIn profile 

Your professional profile is one of the best marketing materials you have. Make sure it works for you. Here are some ways to maximise your chances of making an impact on LinkedIn: 

• Choose a clean, professional LinkedIn profile picture 

• Write a compelling profile summary to hook attention

• Gain endorsements from previous employers or clients 

• Be strategic when adding skills to your profile

• Avoid the most common LinkedIn mistakes

Search on a variety of job boards

There are many popular online job boards in the UK, representing a broad array of industries. Find a Job is a government-run online search engine with job listings throughout the UK. There are also specialist job boards for specific industries. Check out our hand-picked selection of the best UK job search sites.

If you're already in the UK and have a permit to work here, you can also Google “jobs near me” to receive immediate suggestions on jobs available in your area. Just take note of job restrictions outlined in your immigration documents.

Check out British newspapers

Newspapers may sound like an old-school route, but you shouldn't overlook them. When it comes to getting a job in the UK, you want to leave no stone unturned. Luckily, you don't have to buy the papers to use them to look for new jobs. 

The Guardian features many professional and graduate UK jobs online, and the print edition focuses on a different sector each day. If you're interested in charity or not-for-profit work in the UK, check out the Big Issue Recruit. Bookmark these websites and check them regularly.

Tap into your existing network

If you have contacts in the UK, or at local businesses with offices in the UK, you’re sitting on a goldmine. Many roles are filled via recommendations and personal referrals, so ensure you’re speaking to your network regularly and making them aware of your UK job search.

How to apply for a job in the UK from abroad

Once you've identified your visa route and employment requirements, and connected yourself to that dream role, there's one last thing to do: apply for the job. 

Luckily, with the advent of the internet, it’s easy to apply for jobs in the UK wherever you are in the world. Whether you’re applying through LinkedIn, via a job board, or directly through a company’s website, it’s usually as easy as clicking “Apply.”

You may be asked to upload your CV or, alternatively, fill out an application form. Your cover letter can usually be uploaded as a document or included as a simple message when emailing your CV to the hiring manager. 

1. Send a stand-out CV and cover letter

To win over a discerning hiring manager based in the UK, you'll need to create a well-written CV and cover letter. Needless to say, these documents are your golden ticket to landing an interview – and a job – in the UK.

Write an impressive CV

There's no global standard CV format, but it’s worth understanding international CV differences.

For example, did you know that in the UK, we advise against including a photo, date of birth, and nationality on your CV due to anti-discrimination laws? That’s why, as you go about learning how to get a job in the UK, it’s essential to understand what to include in your CV. Ensure the right CV format, page length, and other industry-specific elements. 

You should also tailor your CV to the role you're applying for, highlighting why you're the right candidate for the job. If you feel like you’re entering a totally unfamiliar territory here, consider the help of professional CV writing services. 

Back it up with a cover letter 

Once you've aced your CV, the next step is to make sure that your cover letter fits the bill. This freeform part of your application should outline your suitability for the role. Use it as a chance to showcase your professional value to a potential employer. 

The biggest mistake that candidates make here is simply regurgitating the information on their CV. Don't do that. Instead, focus on results-based points that tell the reader about the impact of your work. Doing some initial research into the employer, and tailoring your messages to their expectations, will go a long way too. 

Check out our comprehensive guide on writing a high-impact cover letter, complete with a selection of adaptable examples. 

2. Prepare for your UK job interview

You can always expect to be interviewed at least once for a job in the UK. Understandably, job interviews for international candidates may be conducted via phone or video call, but you should still prepare as well as you would for an in-person interview. 

That means researching the company (on LinkedIn, on its company website, and in the press) and reviewing the job advert. Additionally, anticipate common job interview questions, prepare your responses using the STAR interview method, and note any questions for the employer.

Ready, set, get hired!

The UK regularly changes its immigration policies and visa requirements. But while job hunting here can be tough to navigate, there are many job opportunities and exciting roles waiting to be filled by international candidates. Knowing how to get a job in the UK and securing your application documents can give you a head start in the local job market.

If you're considering applying for work in the UK, why not start with a free CV review? Let our experts advise you on how to supercharge your UK job search today.

This article was originally written by Allie Dickinson and has been updated by Charlotte Grainger and Jen David.

Recommended reading: 

• What a UK recession means for your career

• Best times of the year to look for a job: a success guide

• UK job market after Brexit: what it means for your job search