Discover the top UK cities hiring foreign workers with visa sponsorship in 2026. Explore job sectors, application tips, and the best cities offering skilled and unskilled work opportunities for international applicants.
The United Kingdom remains a top destination for skilled and unskilled foreign workers seeking employment with visa sponsorship. In 2026, with ongoing labor shortages in key industries such as healthcare, construction, IT, hospitality, and social care, UK cities are actively recruiting international talent to fill workforce gaps.
For immigrants looking to work and live in the UK, choosing the right city can make a huge difference. While London is often the first place people think of, other UK cities offer high-demand job markets, affordable living, and visa sponsorship opportunities that are just as promising—if not more.
This detailed guide reveals the top UK cities hiring foreign workers with visa sponsorship in 2026, including the industries driving demand, how to apply, and resources to help you get started.
Key Highlights
- 🏙️ Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow are aggressively recruiting foreign workers in 2026.
- 🧳 Both skilled and unskilled roles are available with visa sponsorship, especially in care, IT, education, and hospitality.
- 🛫 You can apply from outside the UK under the Skilled Worker Visa or Health and Care Worker Visa routes.
- 💼 Several employers are licensed to sponsor foreign workers; knowing where to apply is key.
- 📈 Demand is expected to grow due to Brexit-related labor shortages and the UK’s aging population.
Top UK Cities Hiring Foreign Workers with Visa Sponsorship in 2026
1. London
As the capital and economic powerhouse of the UK, London remains the most active hub for visa-sponsored jobs. With thousands of licensed sponsors based here, London offers roles in finance, tech, healthcare, construction, and hospitality. However, it’s also the most competitive and expensive city to live in.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Financial services
- Software development
- Healthcare & nursing
- Hospitality
Cost of Living: High
Job Portals: NHS Jobs, UK Tech Jobs
2. Manchester
Manchester has emerged as one of the most immigrant-friendly cities in the UK. Known for its booming digital economy and healthcare infrastructure, the city offers a lower cost of living compared to London and numerous visa-sponsoring employers.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Health & social care
- Cybersecurity
- Digital marketing
- Education
Cost of Living: Moderate
Popular Job Portal: Jobs in Greater Manchester
3. Birmingham
Located in the West Midlands, Birmingham is another major city recruiting foreign workers in large numbers. It’s a key manufacturing and logistics hub, making it ideal for skilled trade workers, drivers, and health professionals.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Transportation & logistics
- Care workers
- Manufacturing
- Retail & customer service
Cost of Living: Moderate
Visa Job Source: Find a job (Gov UK)
4. Leeds
Leeds is a fast-growing city in northern England with an increasing demand for foreign workers, especially in healthcare and finance. It is a good option for those looking to live outside the busy lifestyle of London while still having access to plenty of job opportunities.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Nursing & healthcare
- Financial analysis
- Insurance
- Construction
Cost of Living: Affordable
Find Jobs: Indeed UK
5. Glasgow
Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, is a top destination for foreign workers—especially in social care, engineering, and education. Employers in Glasgow are known for offering sponsorships through the Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker visa routes.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Social care
- Engineering
- Teaching
- Hospitality
Cost of Living: Moderate
More Info: MyJobScotland
6. Bristol
Bristol has become a tech and engineering hub in the South West of England. It’s attractive to foreign workers due to its vibrant job market and excellent work-life balance.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Engineering
- Renewable energy
- Software development
- Health and social care
Cost of Living: Slightly above average
Find Tech Jobs: CWJobs
7. Sheffield
With a strong focus on healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and student services, Sheffield is a growing city where sponsored jobs are widely available. It also has a relatively low cost of living.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Healthcare
- Care assistants
- Steel & manufacturing
- University staff
Cost of Living: Affordable
Healthcare Jobs: Trac Jobs
8. Liverpool
Liverpool is known for its rich history, but it’s also one of the top UK cities supporting immigrant employment. The demand for care workers and drivers remains high in 2026.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- HGV drivers
- Care sector
- Teaching assistants
- Warehousing
Cost of Living: Affordable
Job Portal: Total Jobs
9. Newcastle
Newcastle offers a mix of city life and affordability, making it appealing to foreign workers. Many NHS Trusts in this region sponsor foreign nurses and care staff under the Health and Care Worker Visa.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Nursing
- Pharmaceuticals
- IT support
- Warehouse workers
Cost of Living: Low
Healthcare Work: NHS Careers
10. Nottingham
Nottingham is known for its expanding service sector, student population, and research institutions. There’s a growing need for support staff in healthcare, hospitality, and education—many of which are willing to sponsor foreign workers.
Top Hiring Sectors:
- Care assistants
- Hospitality
- University support staff
- Lab technicians
Cost of Living: Low to Moderate
Jobs Source: Gov UK Licensed Sponsors
How to Apply for UK Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Understand the UK Work Visa Options
The main visa categories for foreign workers include:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Health and Care Worker Visa
- Seasonal Worker Visa (for agriculture and poultry roles)
- Global Talent Visa (for top professionals)
Most foreign workers will apply under the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor visas.
📍 Check eligibility here: UK Visa Guide
Step 2: Search for Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Use the following portals to filter job listings:
Search using keywords like “visa sponsorship,” “Skilled Worker,” or “Tier 2.”
Step 3: Apply with a UK-Style CV
Tailor your CV to UK standards:
- Use reverse chronological format
- Include a strong personal profile
- Highlight measurable achievements
- Don’t include a photo or age
Cover letters are also important—keep them clear and tailored to each role.
Step 4: Interview & Documentation
Once shortlisted, employers may invite you for a virtual interview. Make sure you have:
- Valid passport
- English language test (IELTS UKVI)
- TB test certificate (if required)
- Degree certificate or work experience proof
Step 5: Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) & Visa Application
If hired, your UK employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). You’ll use this to apply for your work visa. Application fees range between £610 to £1,408, depending on job type and length of stay.
📍 Apply through: UK Visa Application Portal
Conclusion: Ready to Move to the UK in 2026?
The demand for foreign workers in the UK is growing faster than ever—and cities outside of London are stepping up to fill the gap. Whether you’re a nurse, care assistant, driver, or software engineer, there’s a place for you. These top cities are offering not just jobs, but long-term career potential, visa sponsorship, and the opportunity to live and work in one of the world’s most multicultural countries.
👉 Now is the time to take action. Start applying, prepare your documents, and secure your UK job with visa sponsorship in 2026. Your dream career in the UK could be just a few steps away.
FAQs
1. Which UK city offers the most visa-sponsored jobs in 2026?
London leads in volume, but cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow offer better affordability and growing job markets with sponsorship options.
2. Do I need IELTS to apply for a job in the UK with sponsorship?
Yes, most visa routes require proof of English proficiency, typically via IELTS for UKVI unless you’re from an English-speaking country.
3. What’s the easiest job to get with visa sponsorship in the UK?
Care workers, cleaners, and support staff in healthcare are in high demand and often easier to secure as first-time foreign applicants.
4. Can I bring my family with a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to bring dependents such as a spouse and children, who can also work or study in the UK.
5. How long does it take to get a UK work visa?
It typically takes 3–8 weeks after submitting your application, but timelines can vary based on your country and the job role.
