Great Britain attracts expats with a stable economy, high standard of living and competitive wages. Foreigners make up about 15% of the total population of the country.

And although in recent years the British government has been actively dealing with the issue of reducing the number of expats in the country. It is quite possible to find a job here in 2024, the main thing is to know the specifics of the procedure.

How can a foreigner get a job in Great Britain? Details in our expat guide.

The labor market of Great Britain

According to the Office for National Statistics, the overall UK unemployment rate was 3.9%, the lowest it has been in 40 years. The most economically developed regions are London and cities in the southeast of the country. Unemployment is higher in the north of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

- The most developed industries of the country are: wholesale and retail, health care and social work, administration, education, production and hospitality.

- According to the government, Great Britain lacks the following specialists: scientists (biochemistry, physics), engineers, IT (analysts, system designers, programmers, web designers, software developers), doctors (practitioners, psychologists, radiologists, nurses , veterinarians, occupational therapists), education specialists (high school teachers), graphic designers and cooks.

The level of wages in Great Britain

As of 2024, the minimum wage in the UK is £11.44 an hour for workers aged 25 and over.

The average salary in the UK depends on factors such as job sector, region, skill level, etc.

Among the most in-demand professionals, the following annual salaries are observed: IT and software - £39,439, engineering - £42,009, marketing and sales - £35,000, healthcare - £28,180, education - £35,100, finance and accounting - £42,500, Hospitality £28,008, Nursing £39,371.

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

The majority of employees in Great Britain work on the basis of an employment contract in which working conditions are prescribed. In particular, the document must contain the following information:

- Working hours – for full-time workers, this is usually 35-40 hours per week. The maximum working week is 48 hours, although some may work more.

- Annual leave entitlement – ​​a minimum of 28 days for full-time employees, including eight UK public holidays.

-Term of warning about termination of the contract.

How to find a job in Great Britain?

1. Contact a jobcentre if you are already in the UK or visit the government's job search website.

2. Online job portals - You can browse thousands of full or part-time jobs, upload your CV and manage applications on websites such as: Adecco, Adzuna, Everyjobsite, Fish4, Gumtree, Indeed, Jobsite, Monster, Reed, Totaljobs, Trovit.  

3. Special online resources – Caterer (hospitality, restaurants, hotels, pubs, bars and catering), Charityjob (charity), Computer Weekly (IT), Design Week (design, branding, copywriting, artwork, exhibitions, graphics, inter furniture), Exec Appointments (executive positions).

4. Personnel agencies of Great Britain.

5. Newspapers and Magazines – The Guardian is one of the best sources of jobs for graduates and professionals, especially in arts, culture and media, marketing etc.

6. Websites of companies.

7. Social networks.

The procedure for applying for a job in Great Britain

A job application includes several important elements:

1. Application form: usually contains basic information about you and the selected position;

2. Resume: Lists your skills, education and work experience. It plays an important role when applying for a job. It is recommended that you create your resume so that it corresponds to the specific position for which you are applying. Resume templates are available online.

3. Cover letter: can be sent by email or regular mail, and can also be submitted online. This letter allows you to introduce yourself to the employer, talk about your skills and knowledge, and explain why you are the right fit for the job;

In addition, employers may ask you to provide certain documents:

1. Identity card;

2. Biometric residence permit;

3. Evidence of professional qualifications and experience.

After submitting the application, the candidate may be invited to an interview. The interview format may vary depending on the position or company. You may be asked questions at a formal interview, or you may be asked to complete a probationary period. Before the interview, you will be informed if you need to prepare anything additionally, for example, a presentation.

Employers may also ask for references from people who can confirm your suitability for the job. These are usually colleagues or managers with whom you have worked, or people who have known you closely. Gathering references can be part of the interview process.

Once you start working and paying tax in the UK, whether you're employed or self-employed, you'll be assigned a Unique Tax Identification Number (UTR) - a 10-digit number used to work with the UK Revenue Service.

You also need to apply for a National Insurance (NI) number. You will need your NI number, for example, to get benefits or a pension in the UK.

A large number of offers in the UK labor market and benefits for employees attract thousands of expats to the country. Therefore, be sure to weigh all the advantages and your personal perspectives here.