Employment in UK – Quick Guide to Getting a Job and Working Legally

Thinking about moving to the UK for work? You’re not alone. Thousands of Indians and other internationals chase UK jobs every year because the market is diverse and the pay can be solid. The good news is you don’t need a PhD to understand the process. Below are the real‑world steps that most people follow, plus some shortcuts most blogs don’t mention.

Where to Hunt for UK Jobs

First, you need a place to find openings. The biggest sites are Indeed UK, LinkedIn, Reed, Totaljobs, and Glassdoor. They let you filter by location, salary, and work‑type (full‑time, contract, remote). For tech roles, check Stack Overflow Jobs and GitHub Jobs. If you’re a graduate, the UCAS Career Service aggregates entry‑level positions across sectors.

Don’t ignore niche portals. Teaching jobs in the UK are posted on TES, healthcare roles on NHS Jobs, and finance openings on EFinancialCareers. Signing up for email alerts on these sites saves you from scrolling daily – the moment a new posting appears, it lands in your inbox.

Visa Basics You Must Know

The most common route is the Skilled Worker Visa. To qualify, you need a job offer from a UK employer who holds a Sponsor Licence, a salary that meets the minimum threshold (usually £26,200 or the ‘going rate’ for the role), and proof of English proficiency. The employer sends a Certificate of Sponsorship and you apply online.

If you’re a recent graduate from a UK university, the Graduate Route lets you stay for two years (three for PhDs) without a sponsor. For high‑skill tech talent, the Global Talent Visa can fast‑track you, but it requires endorsement from a recognized body.

Never forget the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme if you’re under 31 and a citizen of certain countries (including Canada, Japan, Australia). It’s a five‑year work permit that doesn’t need a job offer first.

Budget for visa fees (around £600) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£624 per year). Factor these into your salary expectations.

Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive a biometric residence permit (BRP). Keep it safe; you’ll need it for opening a bank account and renting a place.

Salary Expectations and Cost of Living

UK salaries vary wildly by sector and region. In London, a junior accountant might earn £30k‑£35k, while a software developer starts at £45k‑£55k. Outside London, salaries drop 15‑20% but so does rent. A one‑bedroom flat in Manchester can be £800‑£1,000 per month, versus £1,500‑£2,200 in central London.

Use the National Minimum Wage calculator to see the legal floor for your age and contract type. Most full‑time jobs exceed it, but it’s a good safety net.

How to Boost Your Chances

Tailor your CV to UK standards: one to two pages, bullet points, and a brief personal statement at the top. Highlight measurable achievements (“ increased sales by 20%”). Remove any extra personal info that isn’t required (like marital status).

Write a cover letter that mirrors the job description. Recruiters skim, so the first three sentences must show you understand the role and why you fit.

Network aggressively. Connect with UK recruiters on LinkedIn, join industry groups, and attend virtual job fairs. A referral can cut weeks off the hiring timeline.

Consider a short‑term contract or temp role. Agencies like Hays and Michael Page place candidates quickly, and a contract can turn into a permanent offer.

Final Checklist Before You Move

1. Secure a job offer with a sponsorship licence.
2. Apply for the appropriate visa and gather proof of funds.
3. Arrange accommodation – start with temporary housing like Airbnb while you hunt for a longer lease.
4. Open a UK bank account – most banks let you start the process online using your passport and BRP.
5. Register with a GP (doctor) as soon as you have an address.

Getting employment in the UK isn’t a mystery. Find the right job board, get a sponsor, apply for the skilled worker visa, and prepare for life in a new city. Follow this roadmap and you’ll be on the fast track to working and living in the UK.