For immigrants seeking better job opportunities, higher living standards, and multicultural environments, the United Kingdom has long been the destination of choice.
Skilled workers can find employment opportunities in a variety of industries across the UK job market.
For skilled workers to be able to work legally in the country, they must now meet specific requirements based on the points-based immigration system.
An overview of some of the best jobs for immigrants in the UK, visa requirements, and securing employment will be discussed in this article.
Understanding the UK Skilled Worker Visa
In order to understand the specific job sectors in the UK, it is necessary to understand the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa. In order to work in skilled roles in the UK, non-UK nationals must obtain a Skilled Worker Visa. The Tier 2 (General) visa was replaced with the Skilled Worker Visa in 2012.
Eligibility Criteria for a Skilled Worker Visa:
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Job Offer from a UK Employer: The applicant must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor of the program.
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Skill Level Requirement: The job must be at RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or above.
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The general salary threshold is £26,500 per year, or £10.10 per hour. There are exceptions, however, for occupations in shortage and certain professions.
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English Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate their ability to communicate in English through an approved test or qualification.
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Shortage Occupation List: There are some occupations identified as shortage occupations that offer lower salary thresholds and visa application fees.
Top Skilled Jobs for Immigrants in the UK
1. Healthcare and Social Care Jobs
Among the largest employers of skilled immigrants in the UK is the healthcare and social care sector. Due to shortages in various medical and care professions, the NHS (National Health Service) always needs qualified professionals.
Key Healthcare Professions for Immigrants:
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Doctors (General Practitioners, Specialists, and Surgeons)
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Nurses
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Paramedics
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Care Workers and Senior Care Workers
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Midwives
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Radiographers
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Social Workers
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Physiotherapists
Applicants may qualify for lower visa fees and salary threshold exemptions since many of these occupations fall under the shortage occupation list.
2. Information Technology (IT) and Digital Sector
Immigrants with skills can find lucrative opportunities in the UK’s IT and technology sectors. Data analytics, cybersecurity, and software developers are in high demand with the rise of digital transformation.
In-Demand IT Professions:
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Software Developers and Engineers
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IT Business Analysts
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Cybersecurity Specialists
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Cloud Computing Experts
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Data Scientists and Analysts
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Network Engineers
There is a growing demand for IT professionals, making it an attractive career choice.
3. Engineering and Manufacturing Jobs
Various engineering disciplines rely heavily on skilled immigrants to fill vacancies in the UK economy.
High-Demand Engineering Professions:
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Civil Engineers
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Mechanical Engineers
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Electrical Engineers
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Structural Engineers
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Design and Development Engineers
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Automotive Engineers
Visas are usually easier to obtain for engineering professionals because they qualify under shortage occupation lists.
4. Financial Services and Accounting
London is a major financial hub, attracting professionals in banking, finance, and accounting. There are excellent job opportunities for skilled immigrants with expertise in these fields.
Top Financial Professions for Immigrants:
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Chartered Accountants
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Investment Analysts
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Actuaries
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Auditors
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Financial Advisors
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Risk and Compliance Analysts
A variety of professional qualifications are highly valued and can improve employment prospects, including ACCA, CIMA, and CFA.
5. Education Sector
There is a continuing demand for skilled teachers in the UK education sector, particularly in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields.
High-Demand Teaching Professions:
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Secondary School Teachers (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science)
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Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teachers
Depending on the country of qualification, immigrants must obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in order to teach in the UK.
6. Construction and Skilled Trades
As a result of the growing number of infrastructure projects and housing developments, the construction industry is constantly in need of skilled tradespeople.
Essential Construction Professions:
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Bricklayers
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Plumbers
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Electricians
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Welders
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Carpenters and Joiners
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Surveyors
Working legally in the UK requires specific certifications, such as NVQs and CSCS cards.
7. Hospitality and Catering Industry
The hospitality and catering industry offers numerous opportunities for skilled immigrants, particularly in high-end restaurants, hotels, and event management.
High-Demand Hospitality Roles:
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Chefs (with a minimum skill level requirement)
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Hotel Managers
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Pastry Chefs
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Sous Chefs
Chefs with specialized knowledge of international cuisines are highly sought after.
8. Creative and Design Industry
There are many opportunities in the UK’s creative industry, including digital design, advertising, film, and animation.
In-Demand Creative Professions:
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Graphic Designers
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UX/UI Designers
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Architects
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Game Developers
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Digital Marketers
Employment opportunities in this industry are significantly improved by an impressive portfolio and industry experience.
Costs of a UK Work Visa
There are several costs involved with applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa that applicants need to know about before filing. The following is a breakdown of the major visa costs:
1. Visa Application Fees
Skilled Worker Visa costs vary depending on the duration of the job offer and whether the job is on the shortage occupation list:
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Up to 3 years: £610 per person
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More than 3 years: £1,220 per person
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Shortage occupation roles (up to 3 years): £464 per person
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Shortage occupation roles (more than 3 years): £928 per person
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Visa holders have access to NHS healthcare services thanks to the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is mandatory. The cost is:
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£624 per year for each adult applicant
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£470 per year for children
3. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Fee
Sponsorship certificates are provided by employers for a fee of £199. Employers usually cover this fee, but make sure you confirm with them beforehand.
4. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Fee
It is likely that applicants will have to pay a small fee for the collection of their biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) (about £19.20).
5. Other Costs
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English Language Test: If required, costs range from £150 to £200 depending on the test provider.
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TB Test (if applicable): Some countries require applicants to take a tuberculosis test, which costs between £65 and £110.
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Translation Fees: Foreign documents may need professional translation services.
In order to prepare financially for a move to the UK, applicants should understand these costs.
How to Secure a Skilled Job in the UK
If you’re an immigrant looking for a skilled job in the UK, follow these steps:
1. Research Job Opportunities
Start by exploring job listings on reputable platforms such as:
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GOV.UK Skilled Worker Shortage Occupation List
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NHS Jobs (for healthcare professionals)
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LinkedIn
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Indeed
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Glassdoor
2. Obtain the Necessary Qualifications
Your qualifications should meet the standards in the UK. It might be necessary to register with a UK professional body or obtain additional certifications in some professions.
3. Apply for a Job with a Licensed Sponsor
The only employers who can hire non-UK workers are those with a sponsorship license. You can find a list of licensed sponsors on the official website of the UK government.
4. Prepare for the Visa Application
Upon accepting a job offer, your employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Obtain a Skilled Worker Visa by using this document.
5. Relocate and Settle in the UK
Prepare for your move, find accommodation, and become accustomed to working in the UK after receiving the visa.
Conclusion
For skilled immigrants seeking rewarding career opportunities, the UK remains an attractive destination. Several industries, including healthcare, IT, engineering, and finance, actively recruit from overseas, presenting opportunities for skilled professionals.
In order to seamlessly transition into the UK workforce and achieve a fulfilling career path, immigrants need to understand visa requirements, job eligibility criteria, and find a job with a licensed sponsor.
In the UK, there are a variety of job opportunities for healthcare professionals, engineers, IT professionals, teachers, and educators. Make your first step into an exciting UK career today by starting your job search!
