Looking to work in the UK in 2026? Discover top UK companies with sponsorship licences actively hiring foreign workers, visa options, and how to apply. Updated list with links and job tips included.
As the global job market continues to evolve, the UK remains a top destination for skilled and unskilled workers from around the world. With a rising demand for talent in healthcare, IT, engineering, hospitality, agriculture, and logistics, many UK companies have acquired Sponsorship Licences to legally hire foreign workers through the Skilled Worker visa route and other visa categories.
The UK Sponsorship Licence is a government-issued permit that allows employers to sponsor non-UK residents to work legally in the UK. If you’re a job seeker from abroad and want to work in the UK in 2026, applying to licensed sponsors is your most legitimate and successful pathway.
In this guide, you’ll find an updated and well-researched list of UK companies with active sponsorship licences, insights on visa routes, industries hiring the most, and detailed instructions on how to apply for jobs with visa sponsorship in the UK.
Key Highlights
- ✅ Over 69,000 UK employers are licensed to sponsor foreign workers (2026)
- 💼 Sectors like healthcare, IT, finance, engineering, and logistics are actively hiring
- 📝 Most roles require English proficiency and formal qualifications or work experience
- 📌 The Skilled Worker visa is the most common sponsorship route in 2026
- 🌍 Sponsorship is available to candidates worldwide, including from Africa, Asia & Europe
What Is a UK Sponsorship Licence?
A UK Sponsorship Licence is an authorization from the UK Home Office allowing companies to legally employ non-UK citizens. These employers must meet certain legal, financial, and HR standards to maintain their licence and must list job openings that meet eligibility under UK immigration laws.
Once licensed, these companies can issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to qualified foreign candidates, enabling them to apply for work visas such as:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility)
- Health and Care Worker Visa
- Temporary Worker Visa (Seasonal, Charity, Religious Workers)
Top 10 Sectors Hiring Foreign Workers in the UK (2026)
| S/N | Sector | Common Roles |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Healthcare | Nurses, Care Assistants, Doctors, Support Workers |
| 2 | Information Technology (IT) | Software Developers, Analysts, Engineers |
| 3 | Engineering & Construction | Civil Engineers, Project Managers, Technicians |
| 4 | Finance & Accounting | Accountants, Auditors, Analysts |
| 5 | Logistics & Warehousing | Drivers, Warehouse Operatives |
| 6 | Agriculture | Farm Labourers, Pickers |
| 7 | Hospitality & Catering | Chefs, Hotel Staff, Housekeepers |
| 8 | Education | Teachers, Researchers |
| 9 | Manufacturing | Machine Operators, Assemblers |
| 10 | Social Work & Care | Social Workers, Youth Workers |
Updated 2026 List: UK Sponsorship Licence Companies Hiring Foreign Workers
Here are some verified UK companies that are actively hiring international candidates and hold a valid UK Sponsor Licence. You can find the full list on the UK Home Office site, but here are top examples across various sectors:
1. NHS (National Health Service)
The UK’s public healthcare system remains the largest sponsor of overseas workers, especially nurses, doctors, and care workers.
- Industry: Healthcare
- Visa Sponsored: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Job Site: jobs.nhs.uk
2. Amazon UK
With expanding operations across the UK, Amazon hires warehouse staff, logistics managers, and IT support personnel.
- Industry: Logistics, IT
- Visa Sponsored: Skilled Worker Visa
- Job Site: amazon.jobs/en/locations/united-kingdom
3. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers UK)
One of the big four accounting firms, PwC sponsors roles in finance, auditing, consulting, and IT.
- Industry: Finance, Consulting
- Visa Sponsored: Skilled Worker Visa
- Job Site: pwc.co.uk/careers
4. G’s Fresh Ltd
A major agricultural employer that frequently hires seasonal and full-time workers for farm roles.
- Industry: Agriculture
- Visa Sponsored: Seasonal Worker Visa
- Job Site: gs-fresh.com
5. Capgemini UK
Global leader in IT and consulting services, Capgemini offers tech roles to foreign professionals.
- Industry: IT and Consulting
- Visa Sponsored: Skilled Worker Visa
- Job Site: capgemini.com/gb-en/careers
6. Barchester Healthcare
This care home company hires overseas nurses, carers, and support staff under the Health and Care visa.
- Industry: Healthcare
- Visa Sponsored: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Job Site: barchesterjobs.com
7. Jaguar Land Rover
One of the UK’s top automotive manufacturers hiring engineers, designers, and technicians.
- Industry: Automotive/Engineering
- Visa Sponsored: Skilled Worker Visa
- Job Site: jaguarlandrovercareers.com
8. CareTech Holdings
A growing health and social care provider sponsoring support workers, care assistants, and managers.
- Industry: Social Care
- Visa Sponsored: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Job Site: caretech-uk.com
9. KPMG UK
Another major player in auditing, consulting, and tech services that regularly sponsors skilled immigrants.
- Industry: Accounting, Consulting
- Visa Sponsored: Skilled Worker Visa
- Job Site: kpmgcareers.co.uk
10. Marriott Hotels UK
For those interested in hospitality, Marriott sponsors various roles including chefs and front office staff.
- Industry: Hospitality
- Visa Sponsored: Skilled Worker Visa
- Job Site: careers.marriott.com
How to Apply for UK Sponsorship Jobs (Step-by-Step)
1. Search for Jobs from Licensed Sponsors
Use these platforms to find jobs offered by sponsor-licensed companies:
Tip: Use keywords like “visa sponsorship”, “Skilled Worker visa”, “sponsor licence” to refine search.
2. Tailor Your CV to UK Format
Ensure your CV follows the UK structure:
- No photo or personal info like age/marital status
- Reverse-chronological order
- Highlight measurable achievements
- Include cover letter tailored to each role
3. Apply Directly or via Agencies
Submit your application through official portals or recruitment agencies. Agencies like Hays UK, Michael Page, and Robert Half often post sponsorship-based jobs.
4. Secure a Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once selected, your employer will apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) on your behalf. This is essential for your visa application.
5. Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
With the CoS, apply for the Skilled Worker Visa through the UKVI portal.
- Visa Fee: £719 to £1,500 depending on duration and role
- IHS Health Surcharge: £624/year
- Processing Time: 3 to 8 weeks
📍 Apply via: UK Visa and Immigration Portal
Conclusion: Why Apply Now
The UK continues to welcome foreign talent to address labor shortages across sectors. From nurses to software engineers, logistics personnel to hospitality workers, sponsorship opportunities are real, legal, and growing in 2026.
The process might seem complex, but once you understand the steps and identify licensed sponsors, your dream of working in the UK becomes achievable.
Don’t delay. The earlier you apply, the sooner you can land a job, relocate, and start building a future in one of the world’s strongest economies.
👉 Act now. Search, apply, and take the first step toward your UK job journey today.
FAQs – UK Sponsorship Licence Companies Hiring Foreign Workers
1. What is a UK Sponsorship Licence?
It’s a government permit allowing UK employers to legally sponsor foreign nationals for work. Only licensed sponsors can issue Certificates of Sponsorship.
2. How can I know if a company is licensed to sponsor?
You can verify by checking the UK Sponsor Licence List, which is regularly updated.
3. Do I need IELTS to apply for a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, most Skilled Worker visa applicants must prove English proficiency through IELTS or equivalent qualifications.
4. Can unskilled workers be sponsored in the UK?
Mostly no, unless under specific visa schemes like Seasonal Worker or Care Assistant roles in high-demand sectors. Skilled roles have higher chances.
5. What is the easiest job in the UK to get with sponsorship?
Healthcare roles like care assistants, nurses, and support workers are the most accessible, especially under the Health and Care Worker visa.
