The United Kingdom is a popular destination for immigrants looking to live and work abroad. With a strong economy, world-class universities, and abundant job opportunities, it’s no wonder so many people dream of building their careers in the UK.
One pathway for qualified professionals to gain legal work authorization is through visa sponsorship from a UK employer. This allows companies to hire candidates from overseas to fill skill shortages.
Here is a comprehensive guide, that will explore all aspects of securing a UK visa sponsorship job, enabling you to turn your ambition of moving to the UK into reality.
What is Visa Sponsorship?
Visa sponsorship refers to an employer becoming a licensed sponsor so they can hire foreign nationals by supporting their visa applications. Sponsors take on certain duties, like keeping records and reporting duties, in exchange for permission to recruit globally.
Once hired for a sponsored role, the employee is provided with a Certificate of Sponsorship they can use to apply for a work visa, like the Skilled Worker or Health and Care Worker visa.
Top Reasons to Seek a UK Visa Sponsorship Job
Here are the main benefits that make visa sponsorship jobs so worthwhile:
Experience Life in the UK:
With a sponsored job, you gain the chance to live, work and immerse yourself in British culture. From world-famous sights to historic towns and cutting-edge industries, the UK offers immense diversity.
Career Development Opportunities:
The UK hosts some of the world’s largest multinational companies and most innovative startups across sectors like technology, finance, media, healthcare and more. Working here allows tremendous scope for career growth.
Higher Salaries:
Numerous fields in the UK offer very competitive salaries compared to other countries. Software developers, engineers, bankers, scientists and healthcare professionals are among the many roles that pay handsomely.
Pathway to Settlement:
Sponsored visas like Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker allow applicants to apply for permanent settlement, also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), after 5 years of continuous stay. This provides long-term security and stability.
Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers
These sectors frequently hire candidates through visa sponsorship:
- Technology: Software developers, programmers, AI engineers, data scientists
- Engineering: Civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, aeronautical
- Finance: Investment bankers, financial analysts, accountants, actuaries
- Science: Biologists, chemists, medical researchers, psychologists
- Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, radiologists, pharmacists, physiotherapists
Key Steps for Getting a UK Visa Sponsorship Job
If you meet the eligibility criteria for a sponsored UK work visa, follow these steps:
1. Search Online Job Boards
Use sites like UK Visa Jobs that specialize in visa sponsorship roles across employers and sectors.
2. Evaluate Companies’ Sponsorship Histories
Research which employers frequently hire through sponsorship using the Home Office’s Register of Licensed Sponsors.
3. Choose the Right Visa Route
Determine which visa category suits your circumstances – Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker are common options.
4. Prepare a Strong Application
Highlight skills and experience tailored to the job description and ensure you meet English proficiency requirements.
5. Use Available Resources
Seek guidance from experts at reputed immigration law firms like IAS and visa sponsorship job sites like UK Visa Jobs.
Skilled and Health Worker Visas Explained
For most professionals, the main sponsored work visa options are:
Skilled Worker Visa
- For skilled professionals filling roles requiring bachelor’s degree-level skills or higher that pay above £25,600 or the going rate for the occupation.
- Gain 70+ points by meeting mandatory criteria, including approved sponsorship, job offer, and English language skills.
- Typically valid up to 5 years with eligibility to settle after 5 years.
Health and Care Worker Visa
- For professionals like nurses, doctors and paramedics to work in approved healthcare providers like the NHS.
- Must have job offer from licensed sponsor and meet English requirements. Salary and skill level thresholds waived.
- Can apply for settlement after continuous stay.
Both routes allow applicants to bring dependents like spouses or children.
Documents Needed for Visa Sponsorship
Once you secure a job offer, you’ll need to provide:
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Issued by your licensed sponsor with unique reference number
- Passport: Valid passport proving your identity and nationality
- Qualifications: Relevant degree certificates and professional credentials
- English Test Scores: As per approved exams like IELTS or OET if applicable
- Financial Records: Bank statements showing required funds to support your initial months in the UK
- Other: Additional documents like police clearance certificates for certain healthcare roles
Costs to Consider
Key costs when moving to the UK with sponsorship:
- Visa Fees: Application fees of £1,408 (INR 140,000) for main applicant; extra for dependents
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 (INR 62,000) per year
- Flight: One-way tickets for you and family
- Accommodation: Rentals, hotels or short-term housing for first few months
- Living Costs: Day-to-day expenses until you start working
Visa sponsorship jobs allow employers to support workers so costs may be partially covered.
Tips for Securing a Visa Sponsorship Job
Follow these top tips when seeking a UK visa sponsorship job:
• Highlight Technical Skills: Use your resume and cover letters to showcase niche abilities employers want.
• Get Certifications: Earning credentials related to your profession can boost employability.
• Attend Industry Events: Conferences and trade shows allow you to network and learn about the UK job market.
• Seek Referrals: References from past managers or professors can give your application a competitive edge.
• Remain Persistent: The job search requires perseverance through applications, interviews and negotiations.
• Consider Relocation Support: Some employers provide relocation packages covering certain immigration, moving and housing costs.
With the right strategy, you can turn your dream of living and working in the UK into reality. The availability of visa sponsorship jobs makes it possible for driven, qualified professionals to develop their careers in Britain.
Follow the steps outlined here for securing a sponsored role, prepare a strong visa application, and look forward to an exciting future in the United Kingdom!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which jobs in the UK offer visa sponsorship?
Jobs in technology, engineering, science, healthcare, finance and other skilled occupations often provide sponsorship. Shortage occupations that struggle to find enough local hires are also likely sponsors.
Q: How long does it take to get UK visa sponsorship?
The end-to-end process typically takes 6-12 months including the job search, application, and visa processing. Timing varies based on employer and visa category.
Q: Can I bring my family members with a visa sponsorship job?
Yes, most sponsored work visas allow you to bring dependents like your spouse/partner and children under the age of 18. They can apply for visas as your dependents.
Q: Will my employer cover any relocation costs?
Some employers provide relocation/resettlement packages to help cover certain costs related to immigration, travel, housing etc. However, this is not very common and depends on the company and job role.
Q: Can I apply for permanent residence?
Those on sponsored visas like Skilled Worker and Health/Care Worker can typically apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after 5 years. This provides permanent residence for settling long-term in the UK.
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