Think no one’s hiring foreigners in the UK right now? Think again. Many believe UK companies have stopped offering visas, and with new rules and Brexit changes, it seems harder than ever. But here’s the surprise, some UK companies are hiring more foreign workers than before, and yes, even with all the changes.
So, what’s going on? There’s a growing demand in the UK for skilled workers in fields like tech, health, and engineering. Local workers can’t fill all the roles, and this is where international talent—you—comes in. And guess what? UK companies hiring foreigners with visa sponsorship are not just real, but they’re growing.
As a jobseeker, you may feel stuck or overwhelmed, and you wonder if a UK job with sponsorship is still possible. It is. And in this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to find UK employers offering legal visa sponsorships, which industries are most open, and how to stand out.
Research data shows that in 2024, over 80,000 skilled worker visas were issued to non-EU nationals, and that means real people like you got hired, and moved. Keep reading. This article will show you the best UK companies, what they look for, and what steps to take now.
Why UK Companies Are Still Hiring Foreigners in 2025
It may sound strange, but the UK still needs foreign workers, and despite strict immigration headlines, UK companies hiring foreigners with visa sponsorship are increasing in some sectors. Let’s see why.
1. Ongoing Skills Shortages in Key Industries
Even today, some UK industries cannot find enough local workers, and sectors like health, tech, and education face big gaps. Local training is too slow to meet demand, and so, UK employers must look abroad.
For example, the NHS faces a nurse shortage of over 40,000 roles, and in tech, UK businesses can’t find enough coders or cybersecurity experts. Without foreign workers, many services would stop working.
2. Government Skilled Worker Visa Targets and Stats
You might think the UK is cutting visas, but the truth is different, because the Skilled Worker visa route is still open and growing. In 2024, the UK issued over 80,000 skilled worker visas to foreign applicants, and most were for roles that local workers could not fill.
The government even updates a Shortage Occupation List to make hiring foreigners easier and faster. This means more companies feel safe and ready to sponsor you.
3. Changes After Brexit Creating Demand for Global Talent
Brexit did stop free movement from the EU, but it also created space for global talent. Before, companies could hire workers from the EU without visas, and now, they must look beyond Europe.
This shift is good news for skilled workers from countries like Nigeria, India, Pakistan, and the Philippines. Many UK companies are now used to sponsoring international staff.
4. Validation Through Recent Hiring Trends
Don’t just take our word for it, and job sites like Indeed and LinkedIn now list thousands of UK roles that offer sponsorship. Major UK employers are even adding the phrase “visa sponsorship available” directly in job titles. That’s a strong signal. Companies are now more open to foreign hires than you might expect.
High-Demand Sectors That Sponsor Foreign Workers
If you want to work in the UK, choosing the right industry is key, and some fields are desperate for talent. These are the top sectors where UK companies hiring foreigners with visa sponsorship are most active:
1. Healthcare
The NHS is the UK’s largest employer and a top sponsor, and roles include:
- Registered nurses
- Care assistants
- Radiographers
- General practitioners (GPs)
Example companies: NHS Trusts, Bupa UK, Spire Healthcare
2. IT & Tech
UK tech firms need software engineers and digital experts, and cybersecurity is also a top concern.
Common sponsored roles:
- Software developers
- IT analysts
- Cybersecurity specialists
- Data scientists
Example companies: Capgemini, Amazon UK, IBM UK, Google UK.
3. Engineering & Construction
Projects in rail, housing, and energy need foreign skills, and these sectors face severe local shortages.
In-demand jobs:
- Civil engineers
- Electrical engineers
- Project managers
- Site supervisors
Example companies: Balfour Beatty, Arup Group, Laing O’Rourke.
4. Finance & Accounting
The UK remains a global finance hub, and top firms seek skilled accountants and analysts.
Key roles include:
- Accountants
- Auditors
- Financial analysts
- Risk managers
Example companies: PwC, Deloitte, KPMG, Barclays.
5. Education & Teaching
The UK needs more teachers in maths, physics, and computing. International educators can apply for sponsorship.
Common jobs:
- Secondary school teachers
- Special education teachers
- Language instructors
Example companies: Various public schools, Teach First UK, Academy Trusts.
6. Logistics & Supply Chain
Post-Brexit changes led to a shortage of logistics workers. Skilled roles are now open to foreigners.
In-demand positions:
- Supply chain coordinators
- Transport managers
- Warehouse supervisors
- HGV drivers
Example companies: DHL UK, GXO Logistics, Tesco Distribution.
Top UK Companies Offering Visa Sponsorship in 2025
Many large companies in the UK now regularly sponsor foreign workers, and they do it because they need you, and because they trust your skills.
Here are some top companies known for offering sponsorship:
1. NHS (National Health Service)
The NHS sponsors thousands each year, and it hires nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals.
Tip: Visit individual NHS Trust career pages to apply directly.
2. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
This firm sponsors skilled roles in finance, auditing, tech, and consulting.
Note: Graduate schemes often include visa support.
3. Amazon UK
Amazon hires foreign workers in tech, logistics, and operations. Sponsorship is available for many office roles.
4. Capgemini
This IT consulting firm often hires international developers and engineers. Remote work flexibility is common.
5. Deloitte
Like PwC, Deloitte supports foreign hires in tax, audit, and digital solutions. Many interns go on to sponsored roles.
6. Barclays
Barclays offers sponsorship for roles in risk, compliance, data, and digital banking.
7. KPMG
Known for global hiring. KPMG supports visa sponsorship for skilled finance and consulting professionals.
8. Google UK
Google often sponsors foreign hires in software engineering, cloud, and data roles. Positions are highly competitive.
9. GSK (GlaxoSmithKline)
This major pharma company sponsors scientists, researchers, and tech experts.
10. Balfour Beatty
In engineering and infrastructure, this company sponsors civil engineers and technical project staff.
Visa sponsorship availability changes based on role, location, and year. Always check the job description or contact HR directly before applying.
How to Find UK Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Many people search for UK jobs the wrong way, and they waste time applying to companies that do not sponsor visas. But you don’t have to do that, and use these smart and easy ways to find real jobs with sponsorship:
1. Use Job Platforms with Filters
- Start with job platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor, as these sites have thousands of listings.
- Use the search bar and type: “visa sponsorship UK” or “sponsorship available.”
- Then, filter the results by country, job title, and date posted.
- Look for jobs that clearly mention visa support.
- Check the job description to see if they help with Skilled Worker visas.
Set job alerts with “visa sponsorship” in the keywords, and you’ll get fresh leads every day.
2. Check the UK Government’s Licensed Sponsors List
This list is very helpful, and it shows all UK companies allowed to sponsor foreign workers.
- Visit the UK government’s official Skilled Worker visa page.
- Download the list.
- Search by company name, location, or job type.
- Only apply to companies on this list.
This list is updated often. So, always check the latest version before applying.
3. Visit Company Career Pages Directly
Some companies post jobs only on their websites.
- Go to the career pages of top UK companies.
- Search for open positions.
- Look for phrases like “we welcome international applicants” or “visa sponsorship available.”
- Apply directly from the site as this shows more interest.
Companies like PwC, NHS, Amazon, and Capgemini often post jobs there first.
4. Join Industry-Specific Forums and Communities
Many jobs are shared in private spaces first.
- Join groups on Facebook, Reddit, or LinkedIn related to your field.
- People there often share job leads, tips, and reviews.
Ask questions. Share your journey. You may even get a referral.
Search terms like “UK jobs for international nurses” or “UK software jobs with sponsorship” on Facebook groups.
What UK Employers Look for in Foreign Applicants
UK companies want smart, skilled, and ready workers, but they also want people who know how things work. Here’s what they check before giving a visa sponsorship:
1. Clear, Updated CV with UK Formatting
- Your CV must look like one from the UK.
- It should be short, clear, and easy to read.
- Use a simple layout with no photos, and list skills, work history, and education clearly.
- Show results, not just tasks.
✅ Tip: Keep it 1–2 pages. Start with a short summary of your strengths.
2. Relevant Skills and Work Experience
UK companies that offer visa sponsorship look for people who already know how to do the job. So;
- Show experience in similar roles.
- Add keywords from the job post to your CV.
✅ Tip: If you have UK or international certifications, list them clearly.
3. Strong Communication and English Skills
- Most jobs require clear speaking and writing.
- Even technical roles need good English.
- You may need to show IELTS or another English test result.
✅ Tip: Practice short answers to common interview questions in English.
4. Willingness to Relocate and Adapt
- UK employers like candidates who are ready to move.
- Mention that you are open to change and want to grow.
- Show respect for different cultures.
✅ Tip: Say that you’re eager to work in a global setting.
5. Clear Visa Eligibility (Points-Based System Awareness)
- The UK uses a points-based system for visas.
- You need to know the basic rules.
- Employers feel safer when you already understand visa steps.
✅ Tip: Read the Skilled Worker visa guide before interviews, as it helps you sound informed.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a UK Job with Visa Sponsorship
Many people fail because they rush the process, and you must follow steps carefully. This makes you look serious and ready.
Step 1: Identify Target Industry and Job Role
- Know your skills.
- Choose a field where UK has job shortages.
- This could be health, IT, engineering, or teaching.
- Choose one clear job title to focus on.
Step 2: Research Companies That Sponsor
- Use the UK sponsor list and job sites.
- Make a list of 10–15 companies that hire in your field.
- Check if they mention “visa sponsorship” on their job pages.
Step 3: Prepare UK-Style CV and Cover Letter
- Use UK formatting.
- Make your CV simple and focused.
- Your cover letter should match the job.
- Show why you’re a good fit and why you want to work in the UK.
Step 4: Apply Through Official Channels
- Apply only through trusted sites or company websites.
- Never pay third parties unless they are licensed recruiters.
- Follow the job post instructions closely.
Step 5: Prepare for Virtual Interviews
- Many first interviews happen online.
- Test your internet. Dress well.
- Answer clearly.
- Speak slowly.
- Be ready to explain your skills and visa needs.
Step 6: Understand Visa Application Process
- Read about the UK Skilled Worker visa.
- You need a Certificate of Sponsorship from the company.
- Check if your job is on the shortage occupation list.
Step 7: Follow Up and Stay Persistent
- After applying, wait one week, then send a follow-up email.
- If you don’t hear back, move on, but don’t give up.
- Keep learning and applying. Success comes with time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though UK companies hiring foreigners with visa sponsorship do exist, many job seekers still fail. Why? Simple mistakes ruin good chances, and so let’s look at the biggest errors and how to avoid them:
1. Applying to Companies Not Offering Sponsorship
This is a big one as not every company in the UK offers visa sponsorship, and if you apply to random jobs, you are wasting your time.
➡️ Tip: Before applying, check if the company is a licensed sponsor, and if they are not, they legally cannot sponsor your visa.
2. Using Generic Applications
Sending the same CV to 50 companies does not work, and recruiters spot copy-paste efforts quickly. They want applicants who truly understand the role.
➡️ Tip: Always tailor your CV and cover letter for the job. Mention the company by name, and show how your skills fit the role.
3. Ignoring Visa Eligibility Requirements
The UK uses a points-based system, and you need to meet criteria like salary threshold, skill level, and English proficiency. If you don’t qualify, you won’t get the visa, even if you get the job.
➡️ Tip: Read the Skilled Worker visa guidelines first, and make sure your role is eligible.
4. Not Researching the Job Market
Many applicants do not understand what jobs are in demand in the UK, and as a result, they apply for low-need roles and get no replies.
➡️ Tip: Focus on jobs that appear often with “visa sponsorship” tags, and tech, healthcare, and engineering are top areas right now.
Useful Resources and Tools
To win a job with visa support, you must use the right tools, and below are trusted resources to help you find UK companies hiring foreigners with visa sponsorship in 2025:
1. UK Skilled Worker Visa Official Site
This is your first stop as it explains the visa rules clearly, and you’ll learn about eligibility, documents needed, and how to apply.
🔗 Search: “UK Skilled Worker Visa official gov site”
2. Government Licensed Sponsor List
This is a list of all UK companies approved to sponsor foreign workers, and updated often, it includes company names and types of jobs allowed.
🔗 Search: “UK licensed sponsor list PDF gov.uk”
3. LinkedIn and Job Boards with Filters
Use job sites with smart filters, and on LinkedIn, type “visa sponsorship” + job title (example: “Software Engineer visa sponsorship”).
✅ Also try:
- Indeed UK
- Glassdoor
- Totaljobs
- Reed.co.uk
4. Migration and Visa Consultants (Optional)
If you need help, certified immigration consultants can guide you. They help with document checks, job links, and visa filing, but be careful as some charge high fees.
➡️ Tip: Only use registered OISC advisors in the UK.
5. YouTube or Blogs by Past Successful Applicants
Many people share their journey online, and you’ll find visa tips, company suggestions, and real stories. These help you stay motivated and informed.
📺 Search: “UK visa sponsorship job success story” or “how I got UK sponsored job 2025”
These tools make your job search smarter—not harder. Use them often.
To Know
Getting a job in the UK as a foreigner isn’t a dream, it’s a plan, and it starts with the right strategy. The truth is, many UK companies hiring foreigners with visa sponsorship are doing so actively, and they need talent, want fresh minds, but they’re also looking for serious, prepared applicants.
So here’s your chance. Use what you’ve learned here, and start targeting the right sectors like IT, finance, and health. Customize your CV, reach out directly, and stay consistent. Opportunities still exist, but they go to those who act fast and smart.
Visit the official UK Skilled Worker visa site, and then use LinkedIn and company websites to search for roles that say “visa sponsorship available.” You’re not just job hunting, but you’re building your global future.
Because your UK dream is waiting. Go get it.