The UK continues to be a prime destination for skilled international workers. In May 2025, opportunities for overseas professionals to secure a UK work visa remain strong, especially through employer sponsorship schemes.
With a revised salary threshold of £38,700 per year now in effect for many Skilled Worker visa roles, it’s more important than ever for applicants to understand which sectors are actively hiring and how to meet the updated criteria. This guide covers everything you need to know about visa sponsorship jobs in the UK, including eligibility, high-demand industries, and how to apply.
Understanding the £38,700 Threshold
In early 2024, the UK government announced an increase in the general salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa, moving it from £26,200 to £38,700 annually in most cases.
The policy took full effect in 2025 and applies to the majority of sponsored job roles, with some exceptions for certain shortage occupations, new entrants, and education or healthcare jobs. This change aims to prioritize higher-paid, high-skill roles while reducing the overall volume of lower-wage migration.
As of May 2025, job applicants must now ensure their salary package meets or exceeds this figure unless applying under one of the exceptions.
Who Can Apply for a UK Sponsored Work Visa?
A UK Skilled Worker visa is available to non-UK nationals who have been offered a qualifying job by a licensed UK employer. The employer must be on the Home Office’s list of approved sponsors and willing to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
The job offer must meet the required skill level and salary threshold. In addition, the applicant must demonstrate proficiency in English and meet health and character requirements.
Those applying for roles in public sector jobs like teaching, healthcare, and social work may qualify under adjusted thresholds or shortage occupation provisions.
Industries Offering Sponsorship Jobs in 2025
Several industries remain open to sponsoring foreign workers in May 2025 despite the higher salary bar. The technology sector continues to be a major employer, with roles such as software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity specialists regularly meeting or exceeding the salary threshold. Financial services, engineering, and construction are also actively hiring globally mobile talent.
The NHS and healthcare sector continues to offer sponsorship under special exemptions. Although many roles in these fields don’t meet the general £38,700 threshold, they qualify under specific salary bands established for healthcare workers.
Similarly, education roles, particularly in secondary science, mathematics, and computing, remain on the shortage occupation list with more flexible salary criteria.
Top Employers Providing Sponsorship
As of May 2025, top UK employers actively sponsoring visas include leading tech firms, universities, NHS Trusts, multinational banks, and large construction firms. Well-known companies such as Amazon UK, Google, Accenture, NHS Trusts, PwC, Barclays, and Deloitte regularly appear on the list of registered sponsors and advertise jobs with sponsorship available.
New entrants to the workforce such as graduates may also qualify under slightly reduced salary thresholds if applying for roles on the graduate or entry-level track.
How to Find and Apply for Sponsored Jobs
To apply for a UK sponsorship job, begin by searching the official UK Government list of licensed sponsors and cross-reference with job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and company career pages. When reviewing job ads, look for terms such as “visa sponsorship available,” “Skilled Worker visa,” or “CoS provided.”
Prepare a strong CV tailored to UK standards, and include a cover letter highlighting your eligibility for a sponsored role. If the employer shortlists you, they will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, which you’ll use in your visa application to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
The application includes uploading supporting documents, such as your CoS, passport, proof of English language ability, and evidence of sufficient funds or maintenance (unless exempt).
Costs and Processing Time
The Skilled Worker visa application fee ranges from £719 to £1,500, depending on the length of stay and whether the job is on the shortage occupation list.
Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), currently £1,035 per year, which grants access to the NHS. Most applications are processed within 3 to 8 weeks, depending on where you apply from and whether priority processing is selected.
What Happens After Approval?
Once granted, the Skilled Worker visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to five years. After this period, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you meet residency and income criteria. Your dependents (spouse and children) can also join you and work or study in the UK.
Holders of this visa can switch employers as long as the new employer is licensed and a new CoS is issued. It’s important to keep your employment status and visa conditions compliant throughout your stay.
Final Thoughts
The UK remains open to skilled international professionals in 2025, particularly those who can meet the new £38,700 salary threshold. While the bar has been raised, a wide range of high-paying jobs still offer visa sponsorship through trusted employers.
With careful planning, targeted applications, and a strong professional profile, overseas workers can successfully secure a UK work visa and build a rewarding career in one of the world’s top economies.