For international candidates wishing to work in the UK, obtaining a visa is often a key requirement before making the move. Some employers, particularly those who highly value global talent, may offer visa sponsorship as part of their recruitment process. Understanding which companies offer sponsorship and the process involved can help you make informed decisions and align your career aspirations with the right opportunities.
List of Companies That Offer Visa Sponsorship in the UK
Here’s a detailed list of companies that are known for sponsoring visas for entry into the UK, along with insights into their business and how you might fit in:
1. Barclays
Barclays is a British multinational bank with its headquarters in London and offices across the UK. It offers retail, business, and investment banking services. Barclays sponsors visas for international candidates in specialized roles like software development, business research, wealth management, and card product management. Visa sponsorship is often easier to obtain for roles that require specialized experience and skills.
2. Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance, a prestigious law firm based in London, specializes in areas like tax law, real estate, finance, intellectual property, and antitrust. It serves clients from industries such as banking, energy, insurance, and infrastructure. Clifford Chance is known for sponsoring visas to attract top legal talent from around the world, offering roles like solicitors and barristers, where international expertise is highly valued.
3. Ernst & Young (EY)
EY is a global leader in professional services, offering assurance, tax, transaction, and consulting services. With offices worldwide, including in Belgium, Poland, Spain, and Germany, EY provides excellent relocation opportunities. Roles in technology, accounting, consulting, and strategy development are often sponsored, making EY an attractive option for international candidates looking for career advancement.
4. GSK (GlaxoSmithKline)
GSK is a renowned pharmaceutical and biotechnology company. With a focus on vaccines, specialty drugs, and over-the-counter medications, GSK offers international candidates visa sponsorships, especially for roles in science-related fields. Careers in microbiology, medical sales, and lab automation are particularly sought after. GSK also runs the Future Leaders Graduate Programme, which provides sponsorship for graduates from around the world.
5. HSBC
HSBC is one of the largest financial institutions globally, offering products like credit cards, loans, and mortgages. With branches across the UK and in countries like Poland and India, HSBC sponsors visas for candidates in roles such as finance, operations, business development, and customer success, with a strong emphasis on international expertise in banking and business services.
6. KPMG
KPMG, a global accounting firm, has numerous offices in the UK, including in Birmingham, Gatwick, and Cardiff. KPMG hires international candidates across various levels and provides visa sponsorship for roles in auditing, consulting, taxation, deal advisory, and technology. The firm also offers local apprenticeship programs, making it a versatile option for both experienced professionals and newcomers.
7. McKinsey & Company
McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm based in London, helps public and private organizations accelerate growth. McKinsey offers visa sponsorship for mid-to senior-level positions like knowledge analysts, business analysts, digital technology consultants, and engagement managers. Their global network and inclusive approach make them a key employer for international candidates seeking consulting roles.
8. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
PwC is a British professional services firm that offers comprehensive audit, assurance, consultancy, and tax services to clients worldwide. PwC is known for sponsoring visas for roles in business solutions, auditing, accounting, risk management, and financial consulting. Additionally, tech-focused opportunities are available for professionals with experience in software engineering and computer science.
9. Unilever
Unilever is a major British manufacturer and distributor of consumer goods, specializing in wellness, nutrition, home care, and personal care. Unilever sponsors visas for roles in food science, manufacturing, data quality, and product safety. With over 120,000 employees, Unilever offers a wide range of opportunities to international talent looking to make a global impact.
10. Rolls Royce
Rolls-Royce, a world leader in industrial technology, provides power systems for the aerospace, defense, and energy sectors. Known for its trust, safety, and integrity, Rolls-Royce sponsors visas for roles in manufacturing, quality management, and system engineering. With a strong emphasis on innovation, international candidates with expertise in engineering and technology are highly valued.
11. Quantum Black (A McKinsey Company)
Quantum Black, part of McKinsey, specializes in artificial intelligence, data science, and creative engineering. The company focuses on solving complex data-driven challenges in sectors like healthcare, banking, and transportation. Quantum Black sponsors visas for candidates in machine learning, AI strategy consulting, and data engineering roles.
12. Deloitte
Deloitte is a global consulting and advisory firm offering accounting, tax, financial advisory, and audit services. With operations in over 150 countries, Deloitte sponsors visas for international candidates across all levels. Roles in financial services, auditing, and technology are frequently supported, making Deloitte a leading choice for professionals seeking global career opportunities.
What Is the Visa Sponsorship Process Like?
Visa sponsorship is a critical part of hiring international employees. Below is an outline of the visa sponsorship process that typically applies when moving to the UK for work:
- Step 1: Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor
To be eligible for visa sponsorship, you must first secure a job offer from a UK-based employer who holds a valid sponsor license. The employer must prove that they cannot find a suitable candidate within the UK before offering sponsorship to a foreign candidate. - Step 2: Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once the job offer is made, the employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This document contains details about your role and confirms that the company is sponsoring your visa. - Step 3: Visa Application
After receiving the CoS, you can apply for the appropriate visa. The most common work visa is the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires you to meet specific salary and skill level requirements. In some cases, volunteer or unpaid roles also qualify for sponsorship. - Step 4: Documentation
You will need to provide various documents during your visa application, including:- Passport or travel ID
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Proof of your English language proficiency
- Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
- Step 5: Visa Decision
After submitting your application, it typically takes between 3-8 weeks to receive a decision. Once approved, you can begin your journey to the UK.
Types of Visa Sponsorships
- Economic Visa Sponsorships
Economic visas are intended for skilled professionals, students, and investors. The Skilled Worker Visa falls under this category and is one of the most common visas for international workers. Graduates can also apply for the Graduate Route Visa, allowing them to stay in the UK post-graduation and look for work. - Family Visa Sponsorships
Family sponsorships allow foreign nationals to move to the UK if they have a close family member (e.g., a spouse or child) who is a British citizen or has settled status in the UK. It’s also possible to switch visa categories while in the UK if your circumstances change, such as divorce or applying for an economic visa.
Additional Insights into Visa Sponsorships
Visa sponsorships in the UK can be complex, depending on your specific circumstances, but with careful planning and attention to the requirements, the process can be navigated successfully. Below are a few more important considerations for international workers seeking visa sponsorship:
1. Duration of the Sponsored Visa
Most work visas are temporary, but many allow you to stay in the UK for up to five years, with the option to extend. For instance, the Skilled Worker Visa can be extended as long as you continue to meet the requirements and have a valid job offer from a licensed sponsor. After spending five continuous years in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which grants permanent residency.
2. Salary Requirements
To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, the job offer you receive must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the UK government. The standard minimum salary is typically £25,600 per year, but this can vary depending on the job role, occupation, and sector. For roles that are in shortage occupations, the salary requirement may be lower, but you will still need to earn at least £20,480 per year.
3. English Language Proficiency
Proving proficiency in English is a critical part of the visa application process. Candidates need to demonstrate their ability to speak, read, write, and understand English to at least B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. This is often done by taking an approved English language test such as IELTS or by having a degree taught in English from a recognized institution.
4. Costs Involved in Visa Sponsorship
The visa sponsorship process incurs costs both for the employer and the applicant. Employers must pay a sponsorship fee to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, as well as a Immigration Skills Charge (which can range from £364 to £1,000 per year, depending on the size of the business). As an applicant, you are responsible for visa fees (which start at around £610) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (currently £624 per year).
5. Switching Visas
Many foreign workers may need to switch visas while in the UK, especially as they progress in their careers or their personal circumstances change. For example, a candidate on a Graduate Route Visa may later switch to a Skilled Worker Visa once they secure a permanent job offer. It’s also possible to switch from a Family Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa if you meet the necessary employment and sponsorship criteria.
What to Do if a Company Doesn’t Sponsor Visas
While many large companies, particularly in sectors like finance, law, and technology, are accustomed to sponsoring visas, smaller firms or those in industries with less demand for international talent may not offer sponsorship. If you’re interested in working for a company that does not currently sponsor visas, you could consider the following strategies:
- Negotiate Sponsorship: Some companies may be open to sponsoring your visa if you bring unique skills or experience. Consider highlighting your value and explaining the sponsorship process to the employer.
- Look for Shortage Occupation Roles: Certain job roles are in high demand in the UK, and the government lists these in the Shortage Occupation List. These roles often have lower salary requirements for visa sponsorship and may be easier to secure a sponsorship for.
- Consider Other Visa Routes: If sponsorship is not possible, explore other visa routes, such as the Global Talent Visa or Graduate Route, that do not require employer sponsorship but still allow you to work in the UK.
Conclusion
Relocating to the UK to work can be a rewarding opportunity, offering career growth, cultural experiences, and the chance to work with some of the world’s leading companies. Securing visa sponsorship is a crucial step in this process, and understanding the specific pathways, requirements, and challenges will significantly improve your chances of success.
As you navigate the job market, consider aligning your skills with the companies and sectors that actively seek international talent. Companies like Barclays, Clifford Chance, EY, GSK, HSBC, and many others offer valuable opportunities for foreign workers, often providing visa sponsorship as part of their recruitment process.