How to Get a Job in the UK From Nigeria in 2024

For many working in the UK is a dream come true! This is because the UK has a strong economy, numerous job opportunities, high-quality healthcare services, and an internationally acclaimed education system, among other attractions. Additionally, the historical ties between the UK and Nigeria, stemming from the colonial era, contribute to the allure of the UK as a travel destination. Working in the UK is also a good thing especially for those aiming to earn income in foreign currency. Hence, in this article, we will show you how you can work in the UK from Nigeria among other information.

Benefits of Working In the UK

1. Access to Healthcare and Education

Living and working in the UK comes with the advantage of free healthcare and education, up to a certain extent. Residents, including immigrants, enjoy access to high-quality healthcare services during emergencies and pay minimal fees for regular check-ups, thanks to government subsidies. Additionally, children have the opportunity to receive free education at renowned schools. The UK is also home to globally acclaimed universities like Cambridge and Oxford, offering top-notch education, impressive campuses, and promising job opportunities after graduation.

2. Convenient Entry Point to Europe

One of the prime advantages of residing and working in the UK is the ease of travelling to European countries. The United Kingdom is easily accessible through Heathrow Airport, a major international travel hub. Moreover, numerous budget-friendly airlines facilitate visits to Europe whenever desired.

3. Abundant Career Opportunities

London, in particular, is a thriving hub for numerous companies, presenting immigrants with a wealth of career opportunities based on their qualifications. The UK also hosts many international companies, making it likely that your preferred organization has a presence in London.

4. Rich Cultural Offerings

The UK is a good place for lovers of culture, with numerous free-to-visit art galleries, museums, and theatres. This cultural diversity ensures there’s always something to explore and enjoy.

5. Welcoming and Polite People

The UK is renowned for its friendly and courteous population, making it relatively easy to make new friends and connect with people after relocating.

6. Ideal for English Speakers

For those fluent in English, like Nigerians, communication, finding employment, and establishing connections would not be a problem. London, in particular, is a magnet for immigrants from English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States. However, if English is your second language and you aspire to live and work in the UK, there are excellent online language training platforms available to help you learn English, ensuring a smooth adaptation into the community.

However, it is important to note that before you can work in the UK legally, you need to obtain a work permit or visa.

What is a UK Work Permit/ Visa?

For Nigerians aspiring to work in the UK, obtaining a work permit is mandatory. There are various types of UK work permits or visas available, depending on factors such as your skills, qualifications, job offer or sponsorship, the nature and duration of your employment, and whether you plan to relocate with your family. However, our primary focus here is on the Skilled Worker Visa, which replaced the Tier 2 General Visa. This visa is the most common long-term visa option for those seeking employment in the UK. With this visa, you can reside in the UK for up to five years and even extend it when it expires. Most importantly, you must secure a job offer that falls within the eligible occupations list before applying for this visa.

It is important to note that the UK employs a Points-Based Assessment System for immigration. Hence, applicants must accumulate a specific number of points to qualify for a work permit.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Work Permit/Visa

To qualify for a UK work permit or visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Accumulate a total of 70 points under the Points-Based Assessment System.
• Secure a job offer from an employer approved by the Home Office.
• Satisfy the stipulated salary requirements.
• Possess at least a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, along with a minimum of two years of work experience in a field listed as eligible.

Requirements for Obtaining a UK Work Permit/ Visa

To acquire a UK work permit and commence work in the UK, you will need to provide the following documents:

• International passport
• Evidence of English proficiency test results
• Job title
• Annual salary details
• Job occupation code
• Employer’s name
• The employer’s sponsor license number
• Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
• Proof of financial capability
• Tuberculosis test results
• Certificate of no criminal record
• Proof of accommodation arrangements
• Travel itinerary
• Evidence of payment for UK visa fees
• Completed UK visa application form

How to Apply for a UK Work Visa/Permit

The following steps would guide you in applying for a UK work permit or visa:

1. Begin by creating a user account on the GOV.UK website. This platform also helps you determine the visa type needed for your trip.

2. Next, complete the application form, pay the visa fee, and schedule an appointment at a visa application centre. You’ll receive an email confirming your appointment and listing the required documents. Keep note of your GWF number for the next step.

3. Register your information on the TLScontact website, as this is mandatory for attending your appointment. You can also use this site to track your application after registration.

4. Attend your appointment at a UK visa application centre, where you’ll provide your biometrics. To ensure a smooth process, bring your original passport, printed copies of your online application and appointment confirmation, visa fee payment receipt, all necessary documents, and supporting documents. Be punctual, as late arrivals may lead to delays or appointment rescheduling.

5. Allow time for your visa application to be processed. You can monitor its progress on the TLScontact website.

6. Once your visa is ready, receive a notification and collect your passport from the designated Visa Application Centre.

Getting a Job in the UK from Nigeria

1. Meet the Requirements

The initial step towards securing a job in the UK involves satisfying the prerequisites. While we’ve provided general requirements earlier, it’s crucial to recognize that each job may have specific demands. Some positions necessitate a two-year work history in the field, while others may require no prior experience. Furthermore, educational qualifications can vary between roles. It’s essential to research the specific requirements for your desired job and be prepared to fulfil them if necessary.

2. Write Your CV

Your curriculum vitae (CV) serves as a vital representation of your qualifications and greatly influences your employability. It’s important to note that CVs for Nigerian job applications differ from those in the UK due to different standards. Therefore, before applying for any position, you should tailor your CV to align with UK expectations. The following tips will be helpful in this regard:

• Use a chronological CV format, highlighting your most recent work experience first, followed by previous roles, in addition to your educational background.
•  Ensure that your language adheres to British English rules, as using other forms of English may not be well-received.
• Keep your CV concise; it should not exceed two pages. Lengthy CVs may not receive thorough consideration, especially for competitive positions.
• Avoid including a photograph on your CV, as it is generally not acceptable.
•  Include essential contact information such as your phone number, full name, address, and email address. However, your date of birth is irrelevant.
• Compose a concise yet impactful personal statement that highlights your skills, experience, and suitability for the role. While not mandatory, a well-crafted personal statement can capture a recruiter’s attention.

3. Craft a Strong Cover Letter

A cover letter is an additional means for employers to assess your qualifications and fit for the role. Before composing your cover letter, research the company extensively, including its values, vision, mission, key personnel, and achievements. Remember that a cover letter should not solely focus on you but also demonstrate your understanding of the company and your potential contributions. Ensure your letter is brief, formal, and to the point, with meticulous attention to grammar and sentence structure.

4. Utilize Online Resources

The digital age has simplified job hunting. You can conveniently search for suitable positions from the comfort of your home by exploring job websites like Glassdoor, Indeed, and Reed. These platforms provide diverse job listings, complete with job descriptions, salary ranges, and employer details. With a plethora of options available, it’s advisable to define your preferences before conducting your search to avoid confusion. Additionally, consider leveraging UK recruitment agencies like InterQuest Group, Blue Arrow, and Morgan Hunt for job opportunities.

5. Networking

Networking plays a pivotal role in job hunting, as connections often prove invaluable. Engage with like-minded individuals and seize opportunities to pitch yourself. Attend career-focused events, conferences, and seminars to expand your professional circle. Even if you’re an introvert, capitalize on online platforms such as LinkedIn. Optimize your profile with a professional photo and share pertinent posts, as you never know who may be observing your activities.

High Paying Certificate Free Job Opportunities in UK for Nigeria in 2024

1. Plumber

Average Annual Salary: $73,879

A plumber is a professional who specialises in installing and repairing systems that deal with water and pipes in residential and commercial buildings. They are involved in repair work, installation of pipes, drainage systems, and other fixtures such as washers, tubs and even water heaters. Plumbers make sure that both the supply of water and the disposal of waste are properly managed and that everything is functioning as it should be. Plumbers are very important when it comes to problems like leakage or clogging as they put in new fittings, make sure that the connections are correct and the fittings are working well.

In addition to repair services, plumbers also upgrade existing systems during their working time. This may include replacing ageing pipes with newer and better systems or altering the layout to allow for different types of appliances. They check to ensure that everything is as per the current codes and standards in the market, which is very important, especially for the plumbing of any building.

The process of becoming a plumber is not a one-step affair. First, one should have a good mathematical and science background, since they play an important role when it comes to comprehending the various aspects of plumbing. After that, you would normally have to go through a professional training course or an apprenticeship position that combines book knowledge with experience. This training period enables you to acquire practical experience from the various plumbers.

2. Food Service Specialist

Average Annual Salary: $62,679

Getting a job in the food service industry in United Kingdom is a good chance to get a good income and valuable experience. Various duties of food service workers include food preparation and serving, cleaning, managing utensils and equipment, and inventory control. These roles are important for the effective and efficient running of the food service operations. If you want to become a certified food service specialist in 2024, you may begin with some training. While not necessary, it is good to have a high school diploma or an equivalent education level. Besides, taking online courses in hospitality or culinary arts may prove useful, expanding your knowledge base and possibly raising your income. However, this is not mandatory.

Certain skills can make your work simpler and increase your efficiency and these include effective listening, problem-solving, and cash-handling abilities. It is also important to be acquainted with the utensils and equipment used in food preparation. These skills assist in meeting the challenges posed in the job and also improve general performance. Another desirable skill to have in this role is customer service experience.

Some of the positions, particularly in food services, involve effective communication with the customers and ensuring that they remain satisfied. Being able to show your potential employers that you are capable of delivering good customer experiences should help in your job search. Last but not least, keeping abreast with prevailing practices within the food service sector is relevant for anyone seeking this role. Hence, you must try to stay in touch with people in the industry and what is currently trending in the industry to help you remain relevant.

3. Welder

Average Annual Salary: $65,682

Welders are highly qualified workers, who use special devices and tools to unite metals at high temperatures. Their main function is to weld metals and join them in a way that results in the formation of firm joints. Before engaging in any welding process, the welders assess the suitability of the metal structures to be welded and their capacity to support the load as desired. This first check allows for avoiding complications during the welding phase and guarantees the solidity of future construction.

While welding, the welder should be keen particularly on the pieces of metal that he is joining through the process. They should regulate the amount of heat being used to prevent the metal from becoming too hot and so that the weld is not compromised. Other things that can be modified include the size of the welding flame which has to be properly sized for a clean weld which will also be strong.  Another important aspect of the welder’s work is proper cleaning and care of the welding equipment. This involves inspecting the equipment for any signs of wear and tear, washing the tools, and fixing any faults noticed. Maintenance is very important as it not only increases the working life of the equipment but also ensures that no accidents occur and that the welding process is much more efficient.

The first thing needed to become a welder is to undergo the right training. The minimum formal education required for most welding jobs is a high school diploma or its equivalent. Vocational or technical schools that offer welding courses offer the necessary training and knowledge about the job. These programmes typically include both theoretical and practical aspects, which are necessary when it comes to mastering proper welding procedures. Also, experience gained in apprenticeship or prior job positions would increase your chances of being employed.

4. Translator

Average Annual Salary: $57,602

Translators translate content from one language to another while maintaining its sense and tone. In particular, they work with both written and audio materials, checking how the translation reflects the style and meaning of the source. This does not only involve literal translation but also maintaining the content in such a manner that reflects the language it is translated from to the target language. This role may involve the full understanding of both the languages involved as well as the culture of the two languages. Also, translators may create subtitles for videos by translating speech or other text into writing and ensuring that it coincides with the video and conveys the meaning of what is being said.

Surprisingly, there is no need to have a university degree to become a translator. Although being educated in a certain language can be beneficial, native-like and practical skills, as well as knowledge of both the source and target languages are usually more important. A large number of translators learn from experience, professional development or through constant practice in the languages they practice. While language degrees are useful in terms of developing an understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and cultural context, the secret of good translations lies in experience and a good pair of eyes.

5. Conductor

Average Annual Salary: $68,874

One of the main responsibilities of train conductors includes coupling or uncoupling the train and this needs to be done accurately. They also interact with train engineers to indicate when it is safe to proceed, slow down or come to a halt. Besides these operational duties, the conductors are supposed to sell tickets and ensure that everyone on the train has a valid ticket. This often involves cash handling and an electronic ticketing system to confirm the tickets. They also minimize the cases of havoc on the train by confirming that all passengers have been charged the right fare. Conductors also ensure the passengers observe discipline and order during their travel and deal with any emerging complications to ensure a safe and comfortable trip for all the passengers.

It is therefore important that conductors are acquainted with railway systems. These are things such as how the train moves, how different trains share tracks, and the actions to take in case of an eventuality. They need to be aware of signs, tracks, and safety measures that have to be taken. However, one does not need a university degree to become a conductor. Many conductors undergo training while on the job and acquire their skills through practice and not necessarily through formal education.

6. Electrician

Average Annual Salary: $72,632

An electrician is a professional worker who is engaged in the installation, servicing and repair of electrical equipment. Their job involves troubleshooting electrical installation to confirm that residential, commercial or other structures have proper electrical systems. Electricians start their work by studying plans for electrical networks. These diagrams assist them in perceiving the nature of the electrical networks they are to work on in the future. Maintenance of existing electrical installations is also a vital aspect of an electrician’s work description. They identify problems like bad connections, defective lamps, or a loss of power. To solve the problem, they fix it by replacing some wires, soldering connections or replacing aged parts with new ones. This repair work is important in ensuring that electrical systems are safe and efficient to minimize risks such as electrical fires or blackouts.

7. Construction Worker

Average Annual Salary: $40,950

Construction workers have various responsibilities at construction sites and are involved in various tasks to support building construction. They manage different construction materials to ensure they are moved and applied based on the construction project specifications. This entails conveying loads such as bricks, cement, and wood among others from one location to another at the construction site. Besides material handling, construction workers have other responsibilities that include clearing and removing debris. They keep the environment clean and safe by removing debris from construction sites and properly disposing of potentially dangerous items. These duties assist in developing a secure and well-managed working atmosphere for all workers within the site.

Part of the construction work for those trained in machinery operation involves operating of heavy construction equipment. Skilled operators in operating machinery such as excavators, bulldozers and cranes assist in performing activities like excavation, lifting and levelling of the ground among others. Operating heavy equipment requires skill, safety measures, and consideration of other workers and structures in the vicinity. Noteworthy, it is not mandatory to possess an academic qualification, a high school diploma or equivalent is sought after among employers. Such an education provides a minimum level of reading, writing, and counting as well as an understanding of directions that is important for compliance with safety requirements in construction workplaces. In some cases, employers are willing to employ an individual without a diploma through work experience.

8. Firefighter

Average Annual Salary: $61,828

Firefighters are important protectors of public welfare as they engage in various roles to save lives and assets. Their main function is fighting fires efficiently to reduce the extent of destruction and save people’s lives. This task involves some level of bravery, the ability to make fast decisions and efficiency in the use of firefighting tools and methods. Besides fire fighting, the firefighters help to evacuate people from dangerous situations like burning buildings, car accidents or chemical leakages. They employ specific tools and knowledge to rescue and take care of those in need of help. This type of rescue work is usually done under pressure and even in uncomfortable circumstances to save lives.

Applicants require a minimum education of a high school diploma to be considered for the position of a firefighter. They also must ensure that they are certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to help in cases of emergencies. Applicants have to take physical fitness tests to prove that they are capable of doing the physically demanding activities that the job requires such as lifting equipment and working in dangerous situations. Also, some firefighters undergo a rigorous criminal background check to avoid compromising the safety of the public.

9. Realtor

Average Annual Salary: $97,971

A realtor is a real estate professional who works in the sale of homes and other real estate properties. They begin by meeting those clients who wish to purchase a home so that they can assess their needs and wants for a property. This includes using factors like location, size and other features of a home that the clients may want.

A realtor needs to engage in negotiation and so they must have the skills. They also collaborate with other real estate agents to facilitate deals that can be mutually beneficial to the buyer and the seller in a specific transaction. This involves negotiating offers, counter offers and other terms of sale to arrive at an agreeable price for both the buyer and the seller. Apart from helping the buyers, realtors also help home sellers who want to sell their homes. They assist homeowners in advertising their properties on the market by creating marketing plans that include advertising online, home sales, and photography among others. Real estate agents use their contacts and market intelligence to obtain interested buyers to come and physically inspect the properties.

10. Driver

Average Annual Salary: $73,998

A driver is one assigned with the responsibility of driving passengers or products to different places. Their responsibilities are numerous and depend on the kind of vehicle that they drive. For example, car drivers may offer special transportation services to passengers and ensure they get to particular destinations safely. In contrast, large truck drivers are supposed to transport consignments from depots to consumers or businesses, organizing and managing the transport of goods and timely deliveries. Bus or train operators are important in the transport system in cities since they are directly involved in offering services to people.

First, anyone who wants to be a driver must obtain the relevant permits and licenses. In the case of larger or specific vehicles like trucks or buses, one may require a Class C licence or other specific driving licences. These licences make sure that the driver has the right abilities and knowledge that will enable him or her to control his or her vehicle in different situations.

To Apply for Migrate, Student, Work and Marriage Visa click on following links below.

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Minimum Wage in the UK

The United Kingdom’s minimum wage also referred to as the National Minimum Wage varies based on the employee’s age. Here are the minimum wage rates for different age groups:

1. National Minimum Wage for individuals aged 23 and above: £9.50 per hour

2. National Minimum Wage for individuals aged 21-22: £9.18 per hour

3. National Minimum Wage for individuals aged 18-20: £6.83 per hour

4. National Minimum Wage for individuals under 18: £4.81 per hour

5. The Apprentice rate: £4.81 per hour

Conclusion

Embarking on a career journey in the United Kingdom from Nigeria is indeed a beautiful aspiration. With careful planning, adherence to the necessary steps, and a clear understanding of the requirements, the dream of working in the UK can become a rewarding reality. Whether you are driven by financial gain, a desire for personal growth, or the chance to contribute to the UK’s vibrant workforce, remember that your journey begins with knowledge and preparation. Hence, by following the guidance provided in this article, you can pave the way for a fulfilling and prosperous career in the United Kingdom.