Visandwork

Sectors with the Highest Demand for Immigrant Workers in the UK

The UK economy cannot function without the contribution of foreign workers. For years, immigrants have filled roles that the local workforce cannot cover—whether due to a lack of interest, insufficient training, or because demand is simply too high.

In 2025, the sectors that hire the most immigrants are those facing structural labour shortages. For foreign workers, these fields represent not only job opportunities but also potential pathways to residency and long-term career stability.

Key Sectors with the Most Immigrant Hiring

1. Health and Social Care

  • Most hired roles: Doctors, nurses, elderly care assistants, paramedics, pharmacists.
  • Reason for demand: An ageing population and a shortage of local professionals.
  • Advantage: Many of these jobs are listed as shortage occupations, which makes it easier to secure a visa and job sponsorship.

2. Technology and IT

  • Most hired roles: Software developers, AI specialists, cybersecurity experts, data analysts.
  • Reason for demand: Accelerated digitalisation of banks, retail, and the expansion of tech startups.
  • Advantage: High salaries and access to the Global Talent Visa for top professionals.

3. Engineering and Construction

  • Most hired roles: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers, architects, and skilled construction workers.
  • Reason for demand: Large-scale infrastructure projects, green energy initiatives, and housing developments.
  • Advantage: Stable employment and consistent demand across regions.

4. Logistics and Transport

  • Most hired roles: HGV (truck) drivers, warehouse staff, logistics coordinators.
  • Reason for demand: Growth in e-commerce and the need for efficient supply chains.
  • Advantage: Many positions don’t require a university degree and offer quick entry into the workforce.

5. Education

  • Most hired roles: Teachers in STEM (Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science) and Special Education.
  • Reason for demand: Shortage of British graduates entering teaching and high staff turnover.
  • Advantage: Long-term contracts and strong job security.

Other Growing Sectors for Immigrants

  • Agriculture: Seasonal jobs in harvesting and rural maintenance.
  • Finance and Banking: Especially in London, in investment banking, accounting, and insurance.
  • Green Energy: Solar, wind, and hydrogen energy technicians.
  • Skilled Trades: Plumbers, electricians, welders, and industrial technicians.

Salary Ranges by Sector in the UK

Health and Social Care

  • Nurses: £28,000 – £40,000 annually
  • Specialist doctors: £60,000 – £100,000 annually
  • Caregivers and assistants: £22,000 – £28,000 annually

Healthcare remains the largest employer of immigrants through the NHS and private care institutions. The sector offers both entry-level positions and highly paid roles for specialists.

Technology and IT

  • Software developers: £40,000 – £70,000 annually
  • Data analysts: £35,000 – £60,000 annually
  • Cybersecurity/AI specialists: £50,000 – £90,000 annually

The tech sector offers some of the highest salaries for foreigners, especially in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, where global companies and startups are booming.

Engineering and Construction

  • Civil and mechanical engineers: £35,000 – £65,000 annually
  • Technicians and skilled workers: £25,000 – £40,000 annually

With multiple infrastructure and housing projects, engineering continues to be one of the most stable career paths for migrants with technical qualifications.

Logistics and Transport

  • Truck drivers: £25,000 – £38,000 annually
  • Warehouse staff: £20,000 – £28,000 annually

Driven by e-commerce, logistics provides accessible jobs for foreigners, often without requiring university degrees.

Education

  • STEM teachers: £30,000 – £50,000 annually
  • Special education teachers: £32,000 – £45,000 annually

Education remains a high-demand field due to the shortage of local teachers in science, technology, and special education.

Skills Most Valued by UK Employers

  • English proficiency: Minimum B1–B2; higher levels are required in healthcare and education.
  • Digital skills: Data analysis, coding, and AI knowledge are valued even in non-tech roles.
  • Cultural adaptability: Ability to work in multicultural teams.
  • Professional certifications: Recognition of medical, engineering, or teaching qualifications.
  • Soft skills: Teamwork, leadership, and clear communication.

Best Cities for Immigrants in 2025

  • London: Largest job market in healthcare, tech, law, and finance; highest salaries but highest living costs.
  • Manchester: Growing hub for tech, logistics, and creative industries.
  • Birmingham: Strong in manufacturing, construction, and services.
  • Edinburgh: Leading centre for research, finance, and universities.
  • Leeds: Expanding opportunities in health, social services, and digital.

Challenges for Immigrants

  • Visa competition: Point-based system requires meeting salary, language, and sponsorship criteria.
  • Degree recognition: Some foreign qualifications require equivalency, especially in healthcare and teaching.
  • Cost of living: Particularly high in London and the South of England.
  • Cultural adaptation: Different work culture and social dynamics may be challenging.
  • Migration policy uncertainty: Frequent adjustments require staying informed.

In 2025, the UK continues to rely on immigrants to sustain its economy. The strongest sectors—healthcare, technology, engineering, logistics, and education—are the main entry points for foreign professionals.

By understanding salary ranges, preparing certifications, and choosing the right city, immigrants can secure better wages, international experience, and long-term stability.

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