The UK remains one of the most attractive destinations for professionals seeking long-term career opportunities, thanks to its dynamic economy, diverse job market, and clear immigration pathways. One of the most popular work routes for non-UK nationals is the Skilled Worker visa. But to be eligible, you need a job offer from a licensed sponsor. Here’s how to find such a job and successfully navigate the process.
What is a Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa allows overseas professionals to live and work in the UK in approved occupations. To qualify, the job must be on the list of eligible occupations, meet minimum salary thresholds, and be offered by an employer with a valid sponsor licence issued by the Home Office.
Why Is Sponsorship Important?
Not all UK employers are eligible to hire foreign workers. Only those who hold a sponsorship licence can offer jobs that lead to a Skilled Worker visa. This makes it crucial to focus your job search on companies approved by the Home Office.
Step-by-Step: How to Find a Sponsored Job in the UK
1. Understand Which Jobs Qualify
Before you begin your search, visit the official list of eligible occupations under the Skilled Worker route. These include roles in healthcare, IT, engineering, teaching, architecture, finance, and more. Each job has a Standard Occupational Code (SOC), and each comes with specific salary requirements.
Most roles must now be at RQF Level 6 or higher, meaning degree-level roles or equivalent in skills and experience. Some exceptions exist for certain sectors under temporary shortage rules.
2. Check the Required Salary Threshold
As of the latest update, most skilled worker roles must offer an annual salary of at least £41,700 or £15.88 per hour, whichever is higher. Some exceptions apply for new entrants or shortage occupations. Always confirm the going rate for your job title and sector.
3. Search Jobs Through Trusted Platforms
Use job boards and filters that allow you to narrow results to companies with sponsorship capability. Here are some recommended platforms:
GOV.UK Register of Licensed Sponsors: A searchable list of all UK employers licensed to sponsor workers. Updated regularly.
UKHired: Specialising in jobs with visa sponsorship.
Indeed UK: Add keywords like “Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship” or “Tier 2 Sponsorship”.
LinkedIn Jobs: Many UK companies mention visa support in job descriptions.
Jobs.ac.uk: Academic and research jobs in universities that often include sponsorship.
NHS Jobs: If you’re in healthcare, the NHS sponsors a wide range of roles.
4. Target Large Organisations
Many large companies in the UK regularly sponsor international talent. Focus on firms in:
Tech (e.g., Amazon, Google UK, IBM, Capgemini)
Finance (e.g., Barclays, HSBC, Deloitte, PwC)
Engineering (e.g., Arup, Balfour Beatty, Rolls-Royce)
Public sector (e.g., NHS, local councils, universities)
These employers have HR departments familiar with the visa process and are more open to sponsoring the right candidate.
5. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
Ensure your CV highlights your skills, experience, and qualifications that match the job description. UK employers prefer concise, achievement-oriented CVs. In your cover letter, if appropriate, mention your openness to relocate and your awareness of the Skilled Worker visa requirements.
Avoid writing that you need sponsorship without context. Instead, say that you’re eligible for the Skilled Worker visa and that the employer holds a sponsorship licence (if known).
6. Prepare for Interviews with Confidence
UK employers value communication skills, professionalism, and cultural fit. Research the company, practice common interview questions, and be ready to explain how your background aligns with the role.
If asked about your visa status, be clear: “I am eligible to apply under the Skilled Worker visa and understand the requirements. I am actively targeting roles with licensed sponsors like your company.”
7. Confirm the Employer’s Sponsorship Status
Before accepting a job offer, verify whether the company is listed in the Register of Licensed Sponsors. Ensure they are licensed for the Worker route and not just for temporary roles or internships.
You can search the register by company name, location, or industry. It is publicly available and critical for verifying legitimacy.
8. Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
Once you receive a job offer, the employer will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This document is essential for your visa application. You’ll also need:
Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or UK-recognised degree)
Proof of personal savings (unless exempt)
Tuberculosis test results (if required)
Passport and travel documents
You can apply online for the visa, and decisions are typically made within 3–8 weeks.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Start early: If you’re a student in the UK, use your Graduate visa period to apply for sponsored jobs before it expires.
Upskill: Take certifications in your field to strengthen your CV.
Network: Attend industry fairs, career expos, and webinars — many are hosted at universities and sponsored by hiring firms.
Use recruitment agencies: Some UK agencies specialise in placing international talent in sponsorship-ready roles.
Final Words
Securing a sponsored job in the UK takes planning, research, and persistence, but it’s absolutely achievable. Thousands of international workers join the UK workforce every year through the Skilled Worker route. With the right approach — from choosing your career path to applying strategically — you can be one of them.
If you’re planning to apply for a sponsored job or want to study in a field with high employability, Universitio can help. As education and career advisors, we help students and graduates choose the right path that leads to legal, long-term work opportunities in the UK. Book a free consultation today and let’s plan your future.
