You’re reading this because you intend to apply for one of the available £70,000 jobs in UK with visa sponsorship. Follow our instructions and read the information below very carefully. That way your chances will be way higher.
The average salary in the UK for some jobs stands at approximately £70,000 per year, though this figure can vary depending on the industry, location, and level of expertise. So, if you’re looking for jobs in UK with visa sponsorship, you need to be prepared. Visa sponsorship allows foreign workers to live and work in the UK, you have a chance to grow as a career person through this opportunity.
Overview of the £70,000 Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The £70,000 UK visa sponsorship job program occurs every year. With over 7000 applicants last year. We strive to enrich the UK’s labour market with the right individuals and skills to help the economy thrive. There are so many opportunities available in 2025, depending on the industry. There are education-qualified jobs like nursing assistants, caregivers, doctors, engineers, legal assistants, software developers and many more.
For skilled individuals with no degree, there are jobs like construction workers, security personnel, hotel staff, farm assistant, truck drivers, HVAC staff, and much more. Most unskilled individuals can also apply for these opportunities as many of these companies are ready to provide training to motivated applicants. Application fees are not required. However, you must be over 20 years old and have an international passport as well as any other credentials required of you.
Requirements for the £70,000 UK visa sponsorship program
To qualify for jobs in UK with visa sponsorship, you must meet some criteria. We have mentioned a few of them already but we will reemphasize them in this section. Make sure you follow these instructions closely.
- Must be a fast learner: Because you’ll be going to a completely new country. There’s a lot of things that you won’t be used to. There are working procedures, rules, and regulations associated with different jobs and regions you’ll be posted to. Make sure you’re not a slow learner. You must be able to pick up instructions fast enough. Failure to do so will disqualify you.
- No criminal record: The UK is very strict about crime. So, if you have a criminal record, you may not apply. Only apply if you believe yourself to be an upstanding citizen who will follow the law and never break them. You won’t get into fights, steal, or engage in illegal activities.
- Must have a valid international passport: You cannot travel or be considered for jobs in UK with visa sponsorship without a valid international passport. Your passport should not be expired or nearing expiration—ideally, it should be valid for at least six more months from your intended date of travel. Ensure that all details are accurate, and that there are no issues with previous visas or travel bans that could hinder your application.
- Must be medically fit: As part of the visa process, you will be required to undergo a medical examination. This is to confirm that you are physically and mentally fit for jobs in UK with visa sponsorship. Certain health conditions might disqualify you depending on the role or sector you’re applying to. Additionally, you may be asked to provide vaccination records or take tests for tuberculosis and other communicable diseases.
- Must have proof of relevant skills or qualifications: Depending on the job you’re being sponsored for, you may need to show evidence of specific skills, certifications, or educational qualifications. For example, if you’re applying for a healthcare, tech, or engineering role, you must provide degrees, licenses, or certificates that prove you are trained and capable. Some roles might also require English language proficiency, which can be proven through tests like IELTS or equivalent.
- Willingness to adapt and follow UK work ethics: You must be ready to respect workplace culture in the UK, which includes punctuality, professionalism, teamwork, and communication. Employers will expect you to integrate into their environment smoothly, so flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and good interpersonal skills are essential.
Types of UK Work Visas for Visa Sponsorship Jobs
If you’re planning to move to the United Kingdom for high-paying jobs in UK with visa sponsorship, it’s critical to understand the types of UK work visas that can legally allow you to live and work there. The UK government has structured its immigration system to favor skilled and qualified workers who can contribute to the economy. Below are the most relevant work visas you can use to secure a £70,000 sponsored job in the UK.
1. Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is the most commonly used pathway for foreign nationals seeking employment in the UK. It replaces the old Tier 2 (General) visa. This visa is ideal for professionals in healthcare, engineering, IT, teaching, and construction sectors.
Key Features:
- Must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
- Minimum salary requirement of £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, but higher thresholds apply for certain professions, especially those above the £70,000 mark.
- Duration: Up to 5 years, extendable.
- Eligibility for permanent residency after 5 years.
Ideal For: Doctors, nurses, software developers, engineers, teachers, and more.
2. Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent Visa is designed for individuals who are recognized as leaders or potential leaders in specific sectors like science, digital technology, engineering, medicine, arts, and academia.
Key Features:
- No need for a job offer if you’re endorsed by a recognized UK body (e.g., Tech Nation, Royal Society).
- No minimum salary requirement.
- Highly flexible—can work for any employer or be self-employed.
- Fast-track options available for exceptional talents.
Ideal For: Senior software engineers, data scientists, AI experts, academic researchers, and thought leaders.
3. Health and Care Worker Visa
Specifically tailored for medical professionals, the Health and Care Worker Visa streamlines the immigration process for those taking up roles in the UK’s healthcare sector, particularly under the NHS, adult social care, or NHS suppliers.
Key Features:
- Reduced visa fees and exemption from the immigration health surcharge.
- Must have a valid job offer from a registered health or care employer.
- Priority processing with most visas approved within 3 weeks.
- Permanent settlement available after 5 years.
Ideal For: Nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, radiographers, senior care workers, paramedics.
4. Scale-up Visa
Introduced in 2022, the Scale-up Visa allows fast-growing UK companies to sponsor foreign workers in high-skill roles. This is an excellent option for those entering the UK tech or fintech sectors.
Key Features:
- Must be employed in a job with a salary of at least £36,300 annually.
- After 6 months, visa holders can switch to any employer without needing a new sponsor.
- Accelerated pathway to residency.
Ideal For: Software developers, fintech specialists, marketing executives, business analysts, and financial advisors.
5. Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker Visa
Although not for long-term employment, the Seasonal Worker Visa can serve as a stepping stone for those looking to enter the UK through short-term employment in sectors like agriculture or horticulture.
Key Features:
- Valid for up to 6 months.
- Only for specific sectors, including farming, poultry, and horticulture.
- Not eligible for settlement.
Ideal For: Farm workers, fruit pickers, horticultural laborers.
6. Graduate Visa
This visa is for international students who have completed a UK degree and want to stay in the country to work.
Key Features:
- Allows graduates to work or look for work in any sector at any skill level.
- Duration: 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates).
- No need for a job offer or sponsorship.
- Ideal bridge to later applying for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Ideal For: Recent graduates from UK universities aiming to land a full-time job and qualify for long-term visas.
7. Intra-company Transfer Visa (ICT)
For multinational companies that wish to move employees from a foreign branch to the UK office, the Intra-company Transfer Visa is applicable.
Key Features:
- Requires employment with the sponsoring company abroad.
- Minimum salary of £42,400 per year.
- Not eligible for settlement unless switched to a Skilled Worker Visa.
Ideal For: Corporate managers, internal auditors, IT consultants in multinational firms.
Bonus: Which Visa is Best for You?
Choosing the right visa depends on your background, salary expectations, and career goals:
Your Profile Best Visa Option Healthcare Professional Health and Care Worker Visa Tech or Engineering Expert Skilled Worker or Global Talent Visa Fresh Graduate from UK University Graduate Visa Employee in a Multinational Company Intra-company Transfer Visa Entrepreneurial or Academic Talent Global Talent Visa Agriculture Worker (Seasonal) Seasonal Worker Visa
Healthcare Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The healthcare sector in the UK is one of the largest employers, with a vast range of opportunities for individuals with different skill levels. In particular, the NHS (National Health Service) offers a significant number of roles that come with visa sponsorship, especially for doctors, nurses, and medical professionals.
Common Healthcare Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Nurses: The UK is facing a nursing shortage, and as a result, there is a high demand for international nurses. Nurses who are registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) are eligible to apply for jobs in UK hospitals and clinics.
- Doctors: With a large number of vacancies in both the NHS and private healthcare providers, international doctors can find opportunities in various medical fields.
- Healthcare Assistants: For those without medical degrees, healthcare assistant roles offer an entry point into the UK healthcare system. These roles provide crucial support to nurses and doctors, and many employers offer visa sponsorship.
Average Salary
- Nurses: £24,000 to £37,000 annually
- Doctors: £40,000 to £80,000 annually
- Healthcare Assistants: £18,000 to £22,000 annually
IT and Technology Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The IT and technology sectors in the UK are growing rapidly, with demand for skilled professionals in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis. The UK government has introduced various visa schemes to attract global tech talent, such as the Tech Nation Visa and the Skilled Worker Visa.
Popular IT Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Software Engineers: There is a constant demand for software developers across various industries. Companies often sponsor visas for developers proficient in programming languages like Python, Java, and C++.
- Cybersecurity Experts: As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses in the UK are looking to bolster their cybersecurity teams. Skilled professionals with experience in network security, risk management, and data protection are highly sought after.
- Data Analysts and Scientists: With data becoming increasingly important in decision-making, roles in data science are some of the highest-paying in the UK tech industry.
Average Salary
- Software Engineers: £35,000 to £60,000 annually
- Cybersecurity Experts: £40,000 to £70,000 annually
- Data Analysts: £30,000 to £55,000 annually
Engineering Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The engineering sector in the UK is another area where there is a high demand for skilled professionals. Engineers in various disciplines, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering, are essential to the infrastructure and development of the country.
Engineering Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Civil Engineers: As the UK invests in infrastructure, there is a significant demand for civil engineers who can design and oversee the construction of roads, bridges, and other public works.
- Mechanical Engineers: From manufacturing to energy, mechanical engineers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of machinery and systems.
- Electrical Engineers: Electrical engineers are in demand for projects in telecommunications, energy, and electronics.
Average Salary
- Civil Engineers: £30,000 to £50,000 annually
- Mechanical Engineers: £32,000 to £55,000 annually
- Electrical Engineers: £35,000 to £60,000 annually
Hospitality Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The UK’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industry is constantly in need of workers, especially in cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester. Many employers in the hospitality sector offer visa sponsorship for both skilled and unskilled roles.
Interested in this one? Click Here
Common Hospitality Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Chefs and Cooks: Skilled chefs, particularly those with expertise in international cuisines, are highly sought after in the UK.
- Hotel Staff: Positions such as hotel managers, receptionists, and housekeeping staff are commonly available for visa sponsorship.
- Waiters and Bartenders: While these positions may be considered unskilled, many employers in high-end establishments are willing to sponsor visas for experienced hospitality staff.
Average Salary
- Chefs: £20,000 to £35,000 annually
- Hotel Staff: £18,000 to £25,000 annually
- Waiters and Bartenders: £18,000 to £22,000 annually
Construction Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The construction sector in the UK continues to thrive, driven by ongoing urban development, infrastructure projects, and housing demand. Both skilled and unskilled workers are in demand for various roles in construction.
Key Construction Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Construction Managers: Responsible for overseeing construction projects, these professionals ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Electricians and Plumbers: Skilled tradespeople such as electricians and plumbers are consistently in demand for residential and commercial construction.
- Laborers: Unskilled workers can find roles as general laborers on construction sites, assisting with manual tasks and supporting skilled workers.
Average Salary
- Construction Managers: £40,000 to £60,000 annually
- Electricians: £30,000 to £45,000 annually
- Laborers: £18,000 to £22,000 annually
Teaching Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
Teachers are in high demand across the UK, especially in subjects such as science, mathematics, and modern foreign languages. With a shortage of qualified educators in certain regions, many schools and colleges offer visa sponsorship to attract international talent.
Common Teaching Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Secondary School Teachers: Teachers of STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) are particularly sought after in the UK.
- Primary School Teachers: Although less common, there are opportunities for primary school teachers to secure visa sponsorship, especially in areas with a high demand for teachers.
- Special Education Needs (SEN) Teachers: With a growing focus on inclusive education, SEN teachers are in demand across the country.
Average Salary
- Secondary School Teachers: £25,000 to £40,000 annually
- Primary School Teachers: £22,000 to £35,000 annually
- SEN Teachers: £28,000 to £45,000 annually
Retail Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
While retail jobs are often considered entry-level, there are opportunities for individuals to secure visa sponsorship, especially in managerial and supervisory positions. Retailers in the UK are constantly looking for talented individuals to fill roles in their stores, warehouses, and distribution centers.
Popular Retail Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Retail Managers: Many large retail chains offer sponsorship to experienced retail managers to oversee operations and improve sales performance.
- Supervisors: Supervisory roles in retail require individuals to manage teams, ensure high standards of customer service, and maintain store operations.
- Warehouse Operatives: Unskilled positions in warehouses can be sponsored for individuals willing to work in the logistics sector.
Average Salary
- Retail Managers: £25,000 to £45,000 annually
- Supervisors: £20,000 to £30,000 annually
- Warehouse Operatives: £18,000 to £22,000 annually
Agricultural Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The UK agriculture industry relies heavily on seasonal and migrant workers, particularly for roles in fruit and vegetable picking, farm management, and livestock care. These jobs often offer visa sponsorship to meet the seasonal demands of the agricultural sector.
Common Agricultural Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Farm Workers: General farm workers are needed to assist with planting, harvesting, and maintaining crops.
- Agricultural Managers: Skilled workers in farm management roles are sought after to oversee operations and ensure the productivity of farms.
- Horticulturists: Professionals with expertise in plant science and horticulture can find roles in both commercial farming and landscaping.
Average Salary
- Farm Workers: £18,000 to £22,000 annually
- Agricultural Managers: £30,000 to £50,000 annually
- Horticulturists: £20,000 to £30,000 annually
Transportation and Logistics Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The transportation and logistics sector is crucial to the UK’s economy, and businesses are often in need of drivers, warehouse operatives, and logistics coordinators. Many companies in this sector offer visa sponsorship for both skilled and unskilled workers.
Key Transportation and Logistics Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Truck Drivers: With a shortage of drivers in the UK, many companies offer visa sponsorship to individuals with the necessary driving qualifications.
- Warehouse Operatives: Warehouse workers play a key role in managing inventory, packaging goods, and ensuring efficient distribution.
- Logistics Coordinators: Skilled professionals who can manage and optimize the supply chain process are in high demand.
Average Salary
- Truck Drivers: £25,000 to £35,000 annually
- Warehouse Operatives: £18,000 to £22,000 annually
- Logistics Coordinators: £30,000 to £45,000 annually
Customer Service Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
The customer service industry in the UK spans many sectors, from retail to finance to technology. Companies often offer visa sponsorship for experienced customer service representatives, particularly for roles in call centers, technical support, and customer relations.
Common Customer Service Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Call Center Agents: Many businesses in the UK rely on call center staff to handle customer inquiries, and visa sponsorship is often available for international applicants.
- Technical Support Representatives: Individuals with a background in IT or technical troubleshooting can find customer service roles in technical support.
- Customer Relationship Managers: Skilled professionals who can manage client relationships and resolve issues are in demand in many sectors.
Average Salary
- Call Center Agents: £18,000 to £25,000 annually
- Technical Support Representatives: £22,000 to £35,000 annually
- Customer Relationship Managers: £30,000 to £50,000 annually
How to Find Employers Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
Finding UK employers who are willing to sponsor international workers at a salary of £70,000 or more requires a focused approach. The UK government has made it easier by maintaining an updated list of licensed sponsors, but you also need to know where and how to look for specific opportunities. Below are proven, practical steps to help you identify high-paying jobs in UK with visa sponsorship:
- Search the UK Government’s List of Licensed Sponsors
The UK Home Office publishes an official list of all companies and organizations licensed to sponsor foreign workers under the Skilled Worker visa and other visa categories. You can download the list as a spreadsheet from the GOV.UK website. Use the filter or search function to find companies in industries like healthcare, engineering, tech, finance, construction, and education.
Tip: Focus on large firms or multinational organizations — they’re more likely to offer salaries around or above £70,000 and are familiar with the sponsorship process.
- Use Job Portals that Allow Filtering by Visa Sponsorship
Several job boards allow you to specifically filter for jobs that offer visa sponsorship. Prioritize platforms that cater to international applicants and professional roles:
- UKHired.com – specializes in jobs with visa sponsorship
- Indeed UK – search for “visa sponsorship” or “Skilled Worker visa” along with your job title
- LinkedIn Jobs – use filters like job location, salary estimate (£70K+), and include “visa sponsorship” in the search
- Glassdoor – filter by salary and keywords like “Tier 2 sponsor” or “work visa”
- Apply Directly to Multinational Companies and NHS Trusts
Many international companies headquartered in the UK consistently hire global talent and sponsor visas. Examples include:
- Big Tech & Finance: Amazon, Google UK, Microsoft, JPMorgan, HSBC, Deloitte, PwC
- Engineering & Energy: Arup, Balfour Beatty, Shell, BP, Rolls-Royce
- Healthcare: NHS Trusts across England, Scotland, and Wales
- Pharmaceuticals: GSK, AstraZeneca
Visit their careers pages directly and look for roles tagged with “eligible for visa sponsorship” or “Skilled Worker route.”
- Use Recruitment Agencies That Specialize in Sponsored Roles
Some UK-based recruitment firms focus on placing international talent in sponsor-ready companies. These agencies often have insider access to openings before they hit job boards. Examples include:
- Hays Recruitment
- GlobalHire
- Medacs Healthcare (for medical and nursing roles)
- Opus Talent Solutions (for IT and tech)
Sign up on their websites and indicate in your profile that you require visa sponsorship.
- Attend Virtual UK Job Fairs for International Talent
Every year, several UK universities, trade councils, and immigration networks host online job fairs targeting overseas applicants. These events are often attended by employers looking to fill shortage occupation roles. Look out for:
- Global Talent Visa webinars
- NHS international recruitment days
- Tech Nation job fairs
- Virtual expos hosted on platforms like Eventbrite or UKHired
Register early, prepare your resume, and make use of any one-on-one chat or application opportunities provided during the fair.
- Optimize Your CV and LinkedIn Profile for UK Recruiters
Make sure your resume and online profiles are tailored to UK standards. Include a professional summary, quantify achievements, and use job-relevant keywords that match sponsor employers’ job ads. Recruiters are more likely to reach out if your profile aligns with their automated filters.
- Use the Shortage Occupation List to Your Advantage
Roles on the UK Shortage Occupation List are much more likely to be sponsored — and they often come with lower salary thresholds. However, many of them still offer £70K or more, especially in fields like civil engineering, nursing, and software development. Review the list regularly and target applications to these roles.
- Look for Graduate or Experienced Hire Schemes
Top companies in the UK run graduate schemes and leadership development programs that actively sponsor international candidates. These often offer competitive pay and clear promotion paths that exceed £70,000 in a short time. Some top schemes include:
- Barclays Graduate Programme
- BP Future Leaders Programme
- NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme
- Google Associate Product Manager Program
- Tap into Expat Forums and Job Search Communities
Join online communities where job seekers share verified sponsor companies and leads. Look into:
- Reddit’s r/UKVisa and r/UKJobs
- Facebook groups like “UK Visa Sponsorship Jobs” or “Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship”
- Telegram groups focused on jobs in UK with visa sponsorship
These groups often surface company names and hiring managers who are open to sponsorship.
- Be Consistent and Follow Up
Visa-sponsored jobs are competitive. Apply consistently, tailor your applications, and don’t hesitate to follow up professionally if you don’t hear back. Keep track of which companies respond positively to international candidates and continue to prioritize those sectors.
By using these strategies, you’ll not only increase your chances of landing a £70K job in the UK, but also improve your visibility to the types of employers who actively sponsor foreign talent.
UK Cost of Living vs £70,000 Salary: Is It Enough?
A £70,000 annual salary in the UK is considered high by national standards — the median full-time salary in the UK is around £35,000. However, whether this salary is “enough” depends heavily on your lifestyle, location, and whether you’re supporting dependents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how far £70K can go in different parts of the UK.
1. Take-Home Pay After Tax
On a £70,000 gross salary, your approximate take-home pay in 2025 (after income tax and National Insurance) will be:
- Single person, no student loan: Around £48,800 per year, or £4,066 per month
- With pension contributions (5%): Around £45,000–£46,000 per year
You can check exact figures using the official HMRC tax calculator or tools like Listentotaxman.com.
2. Monthly Budget Breakdown (London vs Regional Cities)
Here’s how your £4,000+ monthly net income might be spent in different areas:
A. London (Most Expensive)
- Rent (1-bed flat in Zone 2 or 3): £1,800
- Council Tax + Utilities: £300
- Transport (Tube + occasional Uber): £200
- Groceries: £350
- Dining Out & Entertainment: £400
- Miscellaneous (clothing, gym, mobile, etc.): £250
- Total: £3,300 – £3,500
Savings Potential: £500–£700 per month
B. Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, or Glasgow (Regional Cities)
- Rent (1-bed flat in city centre): £850
- Council Tax + Utilities: £250
- Transport: £100
- Groceries: £300
- Dining Out & Entertainment: £300
- Miscellaneous: £200
- Total: £2,000 – £2,200
Savings Potential: £1,800 – £2,000 per month
3. Cost of Living for Families or Dependents
If you’re relocating with a spouse or children, your costs rise significantly:
- 2-bed flat in London: £2,500/month
- Childcare for one child: £1,300/month
- Private school (optional): £4,000–£7,000/term
- Family groceries: £600/month
In this case, a £70K salary may be tight in London unless your spouse also earns. In regional cities, though, it still offers comfort.
4. Public Services That Reduce Expenses
Fortunately, some major services are publicly funded:
- NHS Healthcare: Free at the point of use (you only pay prescriptions: £9.90/item in England)
- State Education: Free for children aged 5–18
- Public Libraries, Parks, Transport Discounts: Widely available in most cities
These reduce your dependence on private services, helping your salary stretch further.
5. Visa Holder Considerations
While your £70K salary qualifies you for most Skilled Worker or Global Talent visas, it also makes you ineligible for certain benefits, such as Universal Credit or housing support, due to immigration restrictions. So you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient, especially in the first year.
6. Is £70,000 Enough? Final Verdict
Overall, £70,000 is more than enough to live well in most parts of the UK — and if you’re strategic about where you live and how you spend, it can support both quality of life and long-term financial goals.
- In London: £70K allows for a decent lifestyle, but you’ll need to budget and live modestly, especially if supporting others.
- In Regional Cities: £70K offers a high standard of living, with plenty of room for saving, investing, or even supporting family abroad.
- As a Single Professional: You’ll enjoy comfort, flexibility, and the ability to travel or invest.
- As a Couple or Family: You’ll manage comfortably outside of London, especially if both adults are working.
Relocating to the UK: Services You’ll Need
Once you’ve secured a job offer and a visa, the next phase is moving and settling into life in the UK. This transition can be smooth or stressful depending on how well you plan. To make it easier, here’s a checklist of essential services and providers you’ll need to set up as soon as you arrive—or ideally before.
1. Accommodation Services
Before you arrive, you’ll need either temporary accommodation or a rental agreement. Most long-term rentals require proof of income, UK credit history, and a deposit.
- Short-term options: Airbnb, Booking.com, Spotahome, or serviced apartments
- Long-term rentals: Rightmove, Zoopla, OpenRent (popular for direct landlord listings)
- Documents required: Passport, visa/BRP, employment contract, reference letter, sometimes a UK-based guarantor
Pro tip: Some employers include relocation support or temporary housing—always ask.
2. Banking and Finance
You’ll need a UK bank account to receive your salary and make daily purchases.
- Popular UK banks: HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, Monzo, Starling
- Documents required: Passport, BRP (biometric residence permit), proof of address (tenancy agreement or utility bill)
- Best for expats/newcomers: Monzo and Starling offer app-based banking and are easy to open with minimal documents
If you plan to send money back home regularly, sign up with providers like Wise (TransferWise), Revolut, or Remitly for fast, low-fee international transfers.
3. National Insurance Number (NINo)
This is essential for paying taxes and accessing public services. If your visa allows work, you can start your job without one—but you must apply as soon as possible.
- How to apply: Online via the UK government website
- Processing time: Usually takes 2–6 weeks
Your employer can still pay you in the meantime, but your tax deductions might be higher temporarily.
4. Mobile and Internet
Get a UK SIM card immediately to avoid roaming charges and stay connected.
- Top mobile providers: EE, O2, Vodafone, Three
- Best for newcomers: Giffgaff and Lebara offer prepaid SIMs and low-cost international calls
- Broadband for home: BT, Virgin Media, Sky, and Hyperoptic are widely available
Most broadband contracts last 12–24 months, so choose based on speed, price, and area availability.
5. General Practitioner (GP) Registration
Healthcare in the UK is free at the point of use through the NHS, but you must register with a GP surgery near your home to access it.
- Find a GP: Use the NHS website or ask locals for recommendations
- Documents needed: Passport, visa/BRP, proof of address
- Important: Book a GP appointment early if you have ongoing medical conditions or need prescriptions transferred
Prescriptions cost £9.90 per item in England (free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland).
6. School Enrollment (If Moving with Children)
UK state schools are free and available to all legal residents. However, placement depends on catchment area and availability.
- How to apply: Through your local council’s website
- Documents required: Proof of address, child’s passport/visa, previous school records
- Alternative: Private schools range from £10,000 to £25,000+ per year
Apply early—popular schools in good areas fill up fast.
7. Public Transport Cards
Most UK cities have smartcards for buses, trains, and trams:
- London: Get an Oyster card or use contactless debit/credit
- Manchester: Get a Get Me There card
- Scotland: Use Saltirecard for regional travel
Weekly or monthly passes can reduce commuting costs significantly.
8. Council Tax Setup
This is a mandatory tax for local services like waste collection, street lighting, and schools.
- Amount: £80–£250/month depending on location and property size
- How to register: Contact your local council after moving in
- Discounts: Single-person households can get a 25% discount
Failure to register may result in penalties, so sort this out early.
9. Emergency Contacts and Services
- Police/Fire/Ambulance: Dial 999 in emergencies; 101 for non-emergency police
- NHS 111: Non-emergency medical advice line
- Citizens Advice: Free guidance on housing, legal rights, work issues
10. Optional But Helpful Services
- TV License: Mandatory if you watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer (£169.50/year)
- Driving License Exchange: You can use your foreign license for up to 12 months; after that, you may need to exchange or retake tests
- Home Contents Insurance: Protects your belongings against theft or damage
- Life & Health Insurance: Worth considering if you’re relocating with family
Conclusion
The UK job market offers a broad range of opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers, and many employers are willing to sponsor visas to fill roles that require specific expertise or address labor shortages. Whether you’re looking to work in healthcare, IT, engineering, hospitality, or other sectors, there are numerous jobs in UK with visa sponsorship available to international applicants.
As the UK economy continues to grow and evolve, these opportunities are only expected to increase, making it an exciting time for individuals looking to start or further their careers in the UK.
