Work Visas and Immigration

Visas for foreign nationals

In the United Kingdom, hiring foreigners without valid work visas can result in substantial fines, legal action, or revocation of sponsorship licenses. The UK government enforces strict regulations to ensure employment opportunities are first available to UK citizens unless specialized skills are required. Therefore, the UK has structured skilled migration programs for foreigners, with provisions for highly skilled professionals in sectors like healthcare, engineering, information technology, and education.

These types of work visas are available to foreign workers in the UK:​

• Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals with a job offer in an eligible skilled occupation from a UK employer.​
• Global Talent Visa: For leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, and technology.​
• Intra-Company Transfer Visa: For employees transferring within the same company to a UK branch.​

Foreigners may also apply for a Standard Visitor Visa (Business), which is issued for attending meetings, conferences, or training sessions in the UK. It does not permit full-time employment in a UK company.

Sponsorship and employer responsibilities

Hiring a foreign national in the UK requires compliance with immigration and labor regulations. Employers must hold a sponsor license issued by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to hire workers under most visa categories.

Eligibility criteria

• The role must meet skill and salary thresholds defined by UKVI
• The candidate must pass English language and financial requirements
• The job must be genuine and included on the list of eligible occupations

Required documentation

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by the employer
• Employment contract detailing job duties, location, and salary
• Company sponsor license and supporting documents
• Passport and biometric information from the employee
• Proof of English language proficiency and qualifications (if required)

Post-arrival requirements

• Foreign nationals must register for a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arrival
• Employers must maintain right-to-work checks, update sponsor management systems, and report job changes or early terminations