Get Paid £39,000 in the UK Through Immigrant Work Permit Application

Moving to the United Kingdom to work can be a life-changing opportunity, especially when the job comes with a competitive salary of around £39,000 per year. For many skilled professionals from around the world, the UK immigrant work permit serves as the key to unlocking these high-paying positions, enabling them to build rewarding careers while experiencing life in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for an immigrant work permit in the UK, the types of jobs that offer salaries in this range, and how to successfully navigate the application process. Whether you’re an IT expert, healthcare professional, or engineer, understanding how to access these opportunities is the first step toward achieving your career and personal goals in the UK.

Ready to explore your pathway to a lucrative job in the UK? Let’s dive in.

Understanding the UK Immigrant Work Permit

Navigating the UK’s immigration system can feel overwhelming, but understanding the immigrant work permit — officially known as a visa — is crucial for securing your job and legal status in the country. Here’s what you need to know:

What is the Immigrant Work Permit?

The immigrant work permit is a legal authorization allowing foreign nationals to live and work in the UK for a specified period. The most common route for skilled workers is the Skilled Worker Visa, designed to attract professionals with skills that meet the UK’s labor market needs.

Types of Work Permits and Visas

The UK offers various visa categories for foreign workers, but the most relevant for earning competitive salaries like £39,000 and above include:

• Skilled Worker Visa
  This visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in 2020 and requires sponsorship from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office. Applicants must have a job offer in a qualifying occupation and meet minimum salary thresholds, often starting around £26,200 annually, but many higher-paying jobs exceed this.

• Global Talent Visa
  Targeted at leaders or potential leaders in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, digital technology, and arts. While this visa doesn’t require a job offer, it requires endorsement from a recognized UK body.

• Health and Care Worker Visa
  A specialized route for medical professionals, including nurses, doctors, and health support staff, often offering competitive salaries well over £39,000 due to demand.

• Intra-company Transfer Visa
  For employees of multinational companies being transferred to UK branches. Salaries vary widely but can be lucrative depending on the role and company.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for these visas, applicants generally must:

• Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office

• Work in a job on the approved list of eligible occupations

• Meet English language proficiency requirements

• Earn a salary meeting or exceeding the threshold for the job role (varies by sector and visa type)

• Provide proof of funds or maintenance (in some cases)

Key Documents Needed

Applying for a UK immigrant work permit typically requires submitting:

• Valid passport or travel document

• Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK employer

• Proof of English language skills (e.g., IELTS certificate)

• Evidence of your salary and employment contract

• Criminal record certificate (for some roles)

• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)

Important Considerations

• Salary Thresholds: Many skilled jobs must meet a minimum salary, often around £26,200, but jobs paying £39,000 or more are commonly found in IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance sectors.

• Job Codes: The UK Home Office assigns Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes to jobs, which determine eligibility.

• Sponsorship: Only employers registered with the UK Home Office can sponsor visas. Always verify your employer’s sponsorship license.

Understanding these fundamentals will prepare you to confidently navigate the immigrant work permit application and align your job search with visa requirements.

High-Paying Job Opportunities in the UK for Immigrant Work Permit Holders

Securing a salary of around £39,000 or more in the UK as a foreign worker is very achievable, especially in sectors experiencing high demand for skilled professionals. Below, we explore the key industries, job roles, and trends that provide lucrative earning opportunities for immigrant work permit holders in 2025.

In-Demand Sectors Offering £39,000+ Salaries

1. Information Technology (IT) and Cybersecurity

• Why It Pays Well:
  The UK is a major global tech hub, with cities like London, Manchester, and Cambridge hosting a thriving technology ecosystem. There is a consistent shortage of skilled IT professionals, particularly in cybersecurity, software development, cloud computing, and data science.

• Typical Roles:

  • Software Engineer/Developer

  • Cybersecurity Analyst

  • Data Scientist

  • Cloud Solutions Architect

  • DevOps Engineer

• Salary Expectations:
  Mid-level IT professionals earn between £40,000 and £60,000 annually. Senior specialists and architects can exceed £70,000.

• Visa Relevance:
  IT roles are on the UK’s shortage occupation list, making it easier to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa.

2. Healthcare and Medical Professions

• Why It Pays Well:
  The NHS and private healthcare providers constantly seek nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals to fill gaps caused by domestic shortages.

• Typical Roles:

  • Registered Nurse

  • General Practitioner (GP)

  • Pharmacist

  • Physiotherapist

  • Radiographer

• Salary Expectations:
  Nurses start at approximately £28,000 but can easily reach £39,000+ with experience. Doctors and specialist roles often exceed £50,000.

• Visa Relevance:
  Many healthcare roles qualify under the Health and Care Worker Visa, which has lower application fees and faster processing.

3. Engineering and Skilled Trades

• Why It Pays Well:
  Infrastructure projects, renewable energy, and manufacturing sectors drive demand for engineers and skilled tradespeople.

• Typical Roles:

  • Civil Engineer

  • Mechanical Engineer

  • Electrical Engineer

  • Project Manager (Engineering)

  • Skilled Electrician or Plumber

• Salary Expectations:
  Experienced engineers typically earn between £40,000 and £55,000, depending on specialization and location.

• Visa Relevance:
  Many engineering occupations are included on the shortage occupation list, easing visa requirements.

4. Finance and Accounting

• Why It Pays Well:
  The City of London and other financial centers offer high salaries due to the complex and regulated nature of financial services.

• Typical Roles:

  • Accountant

  • Financial Analyst

  • Actuary

  • Risk Manager

  • Compliance Officer

• Salary Expectations:
  Mid-level financial professionals earn from £40,000 to £60,000, with senior roles commanding higher pay.

• Visa Relevance:
  Finance professionals can qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa, though some roles require specific qualifications.

How to Identify High-Paying Jobs That Sponsor Visas

• Check the Official Shortage Occupation List:
  The UK government publishes an updated list of occupations where there is a shortage of workers. Jobs on this list benefit from reduced salary thresholds and visa fees.

  Official link: Shortage Occupation List (UK Gov)

• Explore Tier 2 / Skilled Worker Visa Sponsoring Employers:
  Employers licensed to sponsor visas often advertise job vacancies openly stating visa sponsorship availability.

• Use Reputable Job Portals:
  Platforms like Indeed UK, LinkedIn, and the UK government’s Find a Job portal allow filtering jobs by visa sponsorship.

Factors Influencing Salary Levels

• Experience and Qualifications:
  Holding a recognized UK degree or relevant overseas qualification can significantly boost earning potential.

• Location:
  Salaries in London and Southeast England are generally higher to compensate for the cost of living, sometimes by 10-20%.

• Sector Demand:
  Sectors experiencing acute shortages, such as cybersecurity or nursing, typically offer higher salaries and benefits.

Additional Benefits and Compensation

Many high-paying UK jobs for immigrant workers come with additional benefits beyond base salary, including:

• Pension Contributions: Employers often contribute to workplace pensions.

• Healthcare Benefits: Though the NHS provides universal care, some employers offer private health insurance.

• Bonuses and Incentives: Performance bonuses and relocation allowances are common.

• Paid Leave: Generous holiday entitlement (typically 20-28 days per year) plus public holidays.

Real-World Examples

• Cybersecurity Analyst in London: £45,000 per year, Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship available, with relocation package.

• Registered Nurse in Manchester: £39,500 starting salary, Health and Care Worker Visa, plus pension and training support.

• Mechanical Engineer in Birmingham: £42,000 annual salary, Sponsored by multinational engineering firm.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an Immigrant Work Permit in the UK

Navigating the UK’s work permit (Skilled Worker Visa) application process can be complex, but with the right information and preparation, you can significantly increase your chances of success. This section breaks down the key steps involved in applying for an immigrant work permit that allows you to live and work legally in the UK and earn competitive salaries like £39,000 or more.

Understand the Skilled Worker Visa Basics

• What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
  The Skilled Worker Visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa in December 2020 as part of the UK’s points-based immigration system. It allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for an approved employer who holds a sponsor licence.

• Who is Eligible?
  To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Have a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.

  • Work in an eligible occupation on the Shortage Occupation List or meet the required skill and salary thresholds.

  • Meet English language proficiency requirements.

  • Have sufficient funds to support themselves unless the employer certifies maintenance.

• Points System:
  Points are awarded based on:

  • Job offer from a licensed sponsor (20 points)

  • Job at appropriate skill level (20 points)

  • Salary meeting threshold (20 points)

  • English language ability (10 points)
    You need a minimum of 70 points to qualify.

• Salary Thresholds:
  The general salary threshold is £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, but for shortage occupations or new entrants, lower thresholds apply—some as low as £20,960 per year.

• Application Fees:
  Visa fees vary depending on the length of stay and whether you apply from inside or outside the UK. The Health and Care Worker Visa offers reduced fees for eligible healthcare professionals.

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

• Find a Sponsor:
  Only UK employers with a valid sponsor licence can offer jobs that qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa. You can verify if an employer is licensed by checking the official UK government list here:
  Register of Licensed Sponsors

• Job Offer Requirements:
  The offer must be for a role that:

  • Appears on the Shortage Occupation List or meets skill and salary requirements.

  • Matches your skills and qualifications.

  • Meets the minimum salary threshold.

• Sponsorship Certificate (CoS):
  Once an employer offers you a job, they will assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a unique reference number that you will need for your visa application.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation

• Essential Documents:

  • Valid passport or travel document

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) number

  • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or recognized qualifications)

  • Proof of personal savings (unless maintenance is certified by your sponsor)

  • Tuberculosis test results (required for applicants from certain countries)

  • Criminal record certificate (if required for the job)

• Health and Care Worker Visa Applicants:
  Reduced visa fees and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is normally £624 per year.

Step 3: Submit Your Visa Application

• Apply Online:
  The application is completed online on the UK government website:
  Skilled Worker Visa Application

• Biometric Information:
  You will be required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a visa application centre.

• Pay Fees:
  Visa fees range between £610 and £1,408 depending on visa length and whether the job is on the Shortage Occupation List.

• Processing Times:
  Most applications are processed within three weeks, but times can vary depending on your country of application.

Step 4: After You Receive Your Visa

• Collect Biometric Residence Permit (BRP):
  Once you arrive in the UK, you must collect your BRP within 10 days from a designated post office. This card proves your immigration status.

• Start Working Legally:
  You are legally allowed to begin work for your sponsoring employer as soon as you arrive.

• Duration and Extensions:
  Initial visas are granted for up to 5 years. You can extend your visa or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.

In-Demand Jobs in the UK That Offer £39,000+ Salaries and Visa Sponsorship

Securing a UK work permit is just the first step; knowing which industries and roles offer competitive salaries and visa sponsorship is key to maximizing your earning potential. This section highlights high-paying jobs across various sectors that consistently offer immigrant-friendly pathways with salaries starting from £39,000 or more.

Healthcare and Medical Sector

Healthcare roles are among the most in-demand in the UK, especially since the launch of the Health and Care Worker Visa. This sector consistently offers salaries above £39,000 and is one of the fastest routes for skilled immigration.

High-Paying Roles:

• Nurses: £33,000 – £45,000 annually (Band 5–6, NHS scale)

• Doctors (General Practitioners, Specialists): £50,000 – £100,000+

• Radiographers & Physiotherapists: £38,000 – £52,000

• Care Managers & Senior Carers: Up to £42,000 with experience

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• Fast-tracked visa processing

• Lower visa application costs

• Exemption from Immigration Health Surcharge

• High demand due to NHS staffing shortages

Engineering and Construction

The UK is heavily investing in infrastructure and green energy, creating opportunities for foreign engineers and construction specialists.

High-Paying Roles:

• Civil Engineers: £40,000 – £65,000

• Electrical/Mechanical Engineers: £39,000 – £58,000

• Structural Engineers: £42,000 – £70,000

• Project Managers in Construction: £50,000 – £75,000+

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• Consistently featured on the Shortage Occupation List

• Suitable for those with a technical degree or equivalent work experience

• Visa sponsorship often included by large engineering firms and developers

Information Technology (IT) and Cybersecurity

The digital skills gap in the UK has made the IT sector one of the top paying and most immigrant-inclusive industries.

High-Paying Roles:

• Software Developers & Engineers: £42,000 – £85,000

• Cybersecurity Analysts: £45,000 – £90,000

• Data Scientists & AI Specialists: £50,000 – £100,000+

• Cloud Engineers & DevOps Experts: £45,000 – £80,000

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• No requirement for degrees if skills and experience are strong

• Flexible work environments, including remote options

• Often includes full relocation packages and visa sponsorship

Finance and Accounting

The UK is a global financial hub, particularly in cities like London and Edinburgh. This sector demands highly skilled analysts, auditors, and financial managers.

High-Paying Roles:

• Accountants (ACA, ACCA, CPA certified): £40,000 – £65,000

• Financial Analysts: £39,000 – £70,000

• Auditors: £45,000 – £68,000

• Tax Consultants: £40,000 – £75,000

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• Big firms (e.g., PwC, Deloitte, EY) often hire from abroad

• Competitive pay with opportunities for permanent residency

• Structured career advancement and professional development

Education and Teaching

The UK’s shortage of qualified teachers—especially in STEM subjects—has made education a viable route for skilled migrants.

High-Paying Roles:

• Secondary School Teachers (Maths, Physics, Chemistry): £39,000 – £60,000

• Special Needs Education Specialists: £40,000+

• Headteachers or Senior Leadership: £60,000 – £90,000

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• Teaching is listed on the Shortage Occupation List

• UK government offers visa sponsorship and even relocation incentives for some subjects

• Training programs are available for overseas-qualified teachers

Logistics and Supply Chain Management

The UK’s logistics sector has expanded rapidly due to e-commerce, creating demand for skilled logistics professionals.

High-Paying Roles:

• Supply Chain Managers: £45,000 – £75,000

• Logistics Coordinators: £39,000 – £60,000

• Warehouse Operations Managers: £40,000 – £65,000

• Procurement Officers: £42,000 – £68,000

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• Major employers offer Tier 2 sponsorships

• Strong demand for skilled professionals with international trade knowledge

• Roles span across various industries, from retail to pharmaceuticals

Hospitality and Hotel Management

Although not traditionally high-paying, senior-level roles in hospitality do offer salaries above £39,000 and sponsorships for experienced candidates.

High-Paying Roles:

• Hotel General Managers: £45,000 – £85,000

• Executive Chefs: £39,000 – £70,000

• Event Directors: £40,000 – £65,000

• Operations Managers (Hotel Chains): £45,000 – £80,000

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• International chains often hire from abroad

• Experience can sometimes substitute for formal education

• Rapid promotion for strong performers

Green Energy and Environmental Sciences

With the UK’s push toward net-zero emissions by 2050, jobs in sustainable energy and environmental protection are growing rapidly.

High-Paying Roles:

• Environmental Engineers: £40,000 – £60,000

• Energy Consultants: £42,000 – £75,000

• Sustainability Managers: £50,000 – £85,000

Why It’s a Strong Option:

• New sector with increasing funding

• Opportunities for international collaboration

• Visa sponsorships available through government and private partnerships

Conclusion

The opportunity to earn a salary of £39,000 or more in the United Kingdom as a foreign worker is not only real—it’s within reach for those who are well-prepared and informed. With the UK government actively seeking skilled professionals across healthcare, engineering, IT, finance, and education, international applicants now have a strong advantage, especially under the Skilled Worker visa route.

By understanding the immigration process, identifying in-demand jobs that offer visa sponsorship, and presenting a well-organized application, you significantly increase your chances of not just securing employment but also building a stable and rewarding life in the UK. Whether you’re looking to relocate for better pay, a stronger career path, or a fresh start, the UK presents a solid option with long-term growth potential.