UK Jobs Without Degree Requirements: £18,000+ Visa Sponsorship Opportunities for Foreign Workers

Are you looking to work in the UK but worried that not having a university degree might hold you back? The good news is that the United Kingdom offers thousands of job opportunities without degree requirements, especially in industries facing labor shortages. Many of these roles come with visa sponsorship, competitive salaries starting from £18,000 per year, and the chance to build a stable career in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

Whether you’re from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, or elsewhere, this guide will help you understand how to secure a job in the UK without a degree, which industries are hiring, and how visa sponsorship works in 2025.

Why Work in the UK Without a Degree?

The UK is one of the most attractive destinations for international workers. Here’s why:

• No Degree Needed: Many industries prioritize skills, experience, and willingness to learn over formal education.
• Visa Sponsorship: Employers can sponsor eligible foreign workers under the UK Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa routes.
• Competitive Pay: Salaries start from £18,000 per year and can go higher depending on the sector.
• Career Growth: On-the-job training, apprenticeships, and career progression opportunities are widely available.
• Cultural Diversity: The UK is home to a large international workforce, creating a welcoming environment.
• Pathway to Settlement: After working in the UK for a few years, foreign workers can apply for permanent residency.

UK Jobs Without Degree Requirements in 2025

The UK has identified several shortage occupations and entry-level roles that do not require a university degree. These industries are open to international applicants and often provide visa sponsorship.

1. Healthcare and Social Care

• Roles: Care assistants, support workers, nursing assistants, and healthcare aides.
• Salary Range: £18,000 – £24,000 per year.
• Why In Demand: The UK faces an aging population and a shortage of care staff.
• Visa Option: Health and Care Worker visa.

2. Hospitality and Catering

• Roles: Chefs, kitchen assistants, hotel staff, cleaners, and waiters.
• Salary Range: £18,000 – £22,000 per year.
• Visa Option: Skilled Worker visa (for chefs) or seasonal work visa for hospitality staff.

3. Agriculture and Seasonal Work

• Roles: Farm workers, fruit pickers, greenhouse workers.
• Salary Range: £18,000 – £20,000 annually (or hourly pay).
• Visa Option: Seasonal Worker visa (6 months).

4. Warehouse and Logistics

• Roles: Warehouse operatives, forklift drivers, delivery assistants.
• Salary Range: £19,000 – £23,000 per year.
• Visa Option: Skilled Worker visa (for certain roles) or sponsorship for logistics staff.

5. Construction and Skilled Trades

• Roles: Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, general laborers.
• Salary Range: £20,000 – £30,000 depending on skill level.
• Visa Option: Skilled Worker visa (shortage occupation list covers some trades).

6. Driving Jobs

• Roles: HGV drivers, delivery drivers, bus drivers.
• Salary Range: £21,000 – £28,000 per year.
• Visa Option: Skilled Worker visa (for qualified HGV drivers).

Visa Sponsorship Opportunities

Many UK employers are licensed to sponsor foreign workers. To get a job with visa sponsorship, here’s what you need to know:

• Skilled Worker Visa: The most common route. Covers health, social care, and shortage occupation jobs.
• Health and Care Worker Visa: For healthcare professionals and care assistants.
• Seasonal Worker Visa: For temporary roles in agriculture and hospitality (up to 6 months).
• Requirements:
  • Valid job offer from a UK sponsor.
  • Minimum salary threshold (usually £18,000+ per year).
  • English language proof (basic level).

Eligibility Criteria

Even without a degree, you must meet basic requirements to qualify for UK jobs:

• Work Experience: Previous job experience in your field strengthens your application.
• English Proficiency: Basic English skills (some employers accept IELTS, others may waive it).
• Age: Must be 18 or older.
• Health & Background Check: TB test (for some countries) and police clearance.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Research Jobs: Use job portals like Indeed UK, GOV.UK, and NHS Jobs. Filter for “visa sponsorship” roles.
2. Prepare Documents: CV, work experience letters, passport, references, and English proficiency proof.
3. Apply Directly: Submit applications to licensed UK sponsors.
4. Attend Interviews: Many employers conduct video interviews for overseas applicants.
5. Get Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Provided by the employer once you’re hired.
6. Apply for Visa: Submit your Skilled Worker or relevant visa application online.

Benefits of UK Jobs Without Degree

• Stable Income: Salaries start at £18,000 and often rise with experience.
• Free Training: Many employers offer training programs to upskill workers.
• Visa Sponsorship: A direct route to working legally in the UK.
• Family Benefits: Skilled Worker visa holders can bring dependents.
• Path to Settlement: Work for 5 years and apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Tips to Boost Your Chances

1. Target Shortage Occupations: Healthcare, care work, construction, and driving roles are in high demand.
2. Highlight Work Experience: Even informal or volunteer experience counts.
3. Polish Your CV: UK employers prefer clear, concise, and skill-focused resumes.
4. Apply Early: Don’t wait until deadlines jobs fill quickly.
5. Check Sponsorship License: Only apply to UK employers listed on the official GOV.UK approved sponsor list.

Post-Employment Opportunities

Working in the UK without a degree can lead to long-term career and settlement options:

• Permanent Residency: Eligible after 5 years of continuous work.
• Higher Earnings: Experience leads to promotions and salary increases.
• Further Studies: Many workers later pursue part-time degrees or certifications.
• Citizenship Pathway: After ILR, you can apply for British citizenship.

FAQs – UK Jobs Without Degree Requirements

1. Can I really get a job in the UK without a degree?
Yes. Many jobs in care, hospitality, agriculture, logistics, and construction don’t require a degree.

2. What is the minimum salary for UK visa sponsorship?
£18,000+ per year for entry-level roles, higher for skilled positions.

3. Do I need IELTS to work in the UK?
Basic English proof is required, but some jobs accept alternative certifications or interviews.

4. How long does the Skilled Worker visa last?
Up to 5 years, renewable, with a pathway to permanent residency.

5. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, dependents can join you under the Skilled Worker visa.

6. Which UK employers sponsor foreign workers?
Healthcare trusts, care homes, construction companies, logistics firms, and hospitality chains.

7. When should I apply for UK jobs 2025?
Recruitment is ongoing, but apply early to secure sponsorship before quotas fill.

UK jobs without degree requirements in 2025 are an excellent opportunity for foreign workers seeking employment, stability, and a pathway to permanent residency. With salaries starting from £18,000, visa sponsorship options, and high demand across multiple industries, the UK remains one of the best destinations for workers without university degrees.

If you’re ready to start your UK career journey, begin by exploring shortage occupations, updating your CV, and applying to licensed sponsors. The opportunity to work, earn, and settle in the UK is closer than you think; no degree required.