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How to work in the UK: Opportunities and requirements
Learn about the main advantages and requirements to work in the UK, plus some tips for finding a job there.
The UK’s strong job stability and low unemployment rates make it an attractive destination for professionals from all fields who are looking to work in the UK and advance their careers across different areas of the job market. Its international outlook, multicultural environment, and dynamic economy also make the region one of the most sought-after places for ambitious professionals. If that sounds like you and you’d like to learn more about career opportunities there, here’s what you need to know.
In this article, you’ll learn about the advantages of pursuing your career in this region, along with practical tips on where to find current job opportunities and the key requirements you’ll need to work there.
Advantages of working in the United Kingdom
As you know, working in the United Kingdom offers benefits that make it a highly valued option for professionals from different sectors:
- Broad and competitive job market: London and other major cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham are home to both multinational corporations and startups that actively seek international talent. Tech giants such as Google, Meta, and Amazon are among the most well-known.
- Competitive salaries: Compared to other European countries, the UK offers higher salaries in sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and education.
- Economic and job stability: Despite Brexit, the country continues to offer a strong business environment with plenty of growth opportunities for international professionals.
- Multicultural environment: British society is used to welcoming people from all over the world, which makes it easier to integrate both professionally and socially.
- Quality of life: Access to efficient transportation, renowned healthcare services, and a wide range of cultural offerings.
- Network of professional opportunities: International events, job fairs, and networking opportunities make it possible to advance your career faster than in many other destinations.
Requirements for working in the United Kingdom
The requirements to work in the UK vary depending on your country of origin and the type of job, but there are some general conditions that every foreign worker should keep in mind:
- Visa or work permit:
- The most common visa is the Skilled Worker visa, intended for those who have a job offer in sectors where there is high demand for workers.
- There are also options such as the Global Talent visa for outstanding professionals in areas such as science, technology, or the arts.
- In some cases, it is possible to work with student or entrepreneur visas, provided that specific conditions are met.
- Prior job offer: In most cases, you need to have a contract or letter of offer from a company registered in the country.
- Certificates and degree recognition: For certain regulated professions such as medicine, nursing, law, or education, your qualifications need to be recognized in the UK.
- Proof of financial means: Some visas require proof that you have enough savings to support yourself during your first few months in the country.
- Health insurance: Most visas require payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge, which provides access to the National Health Service (NHS).
In short, building a career in the UK in 2025 means navigating the right visa processes, showing your English skills, and often having a job lined up before you arrive.
Tips for starting work in the UK
Taking your first steps in a new country can be challenging, but with some practical advice, you can adapt faster to work life in the UK:
- Prepare your resume in the British style: Keep it short and to the point, without including a photo or irrelevant information. Highlight your experience and measurable achievements.
- Get connected from day one: A stable internet connection is key for finding work, staying connected, and getting around in a new city. With Holafly’s monthly plans, you can land in the UK with an eSIM ready to go, no local contracts required.
- Research the area where you will be living: Some cities offer more opportunities in particular industries. For example, London is strong in finance, Manchester in technology, and Edinburgh in education and healthcare.
- Find out about your employment rights: The UK has a national minimum wage, clear rules on working hours, holidays, and employee protections. Knowing these regulations can help you avoid misunderstandings.
- Build a network of contacts: Join professional groups, attend job fairs, and use platforms like LinkedIn to build connections that can help you in your future career.
Types of jobs in the United Kingdom for foreigners
The UK job market offers a wide range of opportunities for foreigners, from skilled positions to temporary roles. Some of the most common include:
- Technology and IT: Programmers, software developers, cybersecurity specialists, and data analysts.
- Healthcare and caregiving: Doctors, nurses, caregivers, and support staff in hospitals and nursing homes.
- Education: Teachers in various subjects, especially mathematics, science, and languages.
- Hospitality and tourism: Receptionists, waiters, baristas, cooks, and hotel staff.
- Finance and banking: Advisors, financial analysts, and accountants.
- Logistics and transportation: Delivery drivers, truck drivers, and warehouse staff.
- Temporary and seasonal jobs: Agriculture, festivals, events, and retail sales.
The jobs with the highest demand in the United Kingdom for foreigners
In 2025, the UK is still experiencing shortages in certain professions, creating opportunities for those looking to work from abroad:
- Healthcare professions: Doctors, nurses, and caregivers are in high demand due to staff shortages in the healthcare system.
- Technology: Experts in software development, AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
- Engineering: Civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers are needed for infrastructure and energy projects.
- Teaching: Teachers of mathematics, science, and foreign languages, with a special emphasis on English as a second language.
- Construction: Skilled laborers, electricians, and plumbers are in high demand for residential and commercial projects.
- Logistics and transportation: Truck drivers and supply chain personnel.
Salaries and cost of living in the United Kingdom
Salaries in the UK vary depending on the profession, experience level, and city. In 2025, the national minimum wage is around $13.50 per hour, which comes to roughly $2,200 per month for full-time work. However, pay can be much higher in specialized fields:
- Technology and finance professionals: Between $47,000 and $80,000 per year.
- Healthcare workers: From $38,000 per year for nursing to $80,000 or more in medicine.
- Jobs in education: Between $33,500 and $60,000 per year, depending on the level of education.
- Jobs in hospitality and services: From $27,000 to $37,500 per year, with the possibility of additional income from tips.
When it comes to the cost of living, London is the most expensive city, with housing costs easily exceeding $1,900 per month. In contrast, cities like Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, and Birmingham offer more affordable rent and living expenses.
A foreigner can expect to spend between $2,000 and $3,200 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. This budget covers housing, food, transportation, and entertainment.
Being connected to the internet from the very first day is crucial for managing paperwork, looking for a place to live, and finding job opportunities. Holafly monthly plans make this easy by providing ready-to-use service as soon as you arrive in the UK, without having to deal with local contracts. Choosing a plan with unlimited data is highly recommended.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Where can you find job opportunities in the United Kingdom?
There are different ways to find employment in the United Kingdom, both for skilled jobs and temporary jobs:
- Online platforms: Indeed, Reed, Monster, and LinkedIn are some of the most commonly used platforms for applying for jobs.
- Employment agencies: These help connect you with companies looking for staff in specific areas such as technology, construction, or healthcare.
- Job fairs and networking events: Offering a chance to meet employers and hand in your resume in person.
- Government programs: Occasionally, the British government issues job vacancies to fill sectors experiencing staff shortages.
- Networking: One of the most effective ways to find employment, especially in specialized areas.
- University job boards: Students in the UK can access university-run job portals offering internships and part-time positions.
Frequently asked questions about work in the UK
Yes, in most cases you need a job offer to apply for the appropriate visa, especially for the Skilled Worker visa.
Living expenses vary by city. In London, you will likely need around $2,500 a month, while in other cities $1,900 to $2,200 is often enough to cover basic costs.
In 2025, the most notable sectors will be healthcare, technology, education, engineering, construction, and logistics.
Yes, student visas allow you to work a limited number of hours per week, usually around 20, but this does not apply to all sectors or full-time positions.
A CV tailored to the UK format, a valid passport, a visa or work permit, proof of language skills, and in some cases, recognition of professional qualifications.
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