Since the UK’s decision to leave the EU, the trend of moving to the UK for work has diminished. Many changes have been introduced to the rules for hiring foreigners. However, salaries in the UK remain competitive compared to other EU countries. In this article, we’ll take a look at how much you can currently earn in the UK.
Entry and Stay in the UK
Since January 1, 2021, citizens from the Schengen Area are required to have a visa with a work permit if they are traveling for purposes other than business, family visits, or tourism. Less restrictive rules apply to those with settled or pre-settled status in the UK.
There are several types of work visas:
| Skilled Worker Visa for skilled workers | High Net-Worth Individuals Visa for wealthy individuals | Seasonal Worker Visa (T5 – Temporary Worker) for seasonal/temporary workers |
| These visas allow you to work for an employer approved by the Home Office.Conditions to obtain a work visa:Earn at least £25,600 annually (depending on the job).A sponsorship certificate issued by your employer.Employment in a job listed as a skilled occupation.Work for an approved employer.English language proficiency. Health and Care Visa – for healthcare workers | Additionally, there is the Global Talents Visa, for workers who stand out in their field. | This visa allows for seasonal work (e.g. farm work, harvests, etc.). Conditions for obtaining a Seasonal Worker Visa: At least 18 years old.A certificate (with a reference number) from a licensed sponsor (employer) in the UK. Proof of financial means to support yourself. |
The UK uses a points-based system for immigration workers. You need to score 70 points to qualify for a work visa. Points are awarded based on job offers, salary level, skills in specific occupations, and English language knowledge.
Note! Starting in April 2025, travelers will be required to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
What are the Work Requirements in the UK?
Before Brexit, you could easily go to work in the UK without knowing English. Now, English language proficiency is a basic requirement for foreign workers. In addition, many foreign workers are required to have experience, certificates, licenses, diplomas confirming skills, and proof of financial status.
Popular Industries in the UK
Wondering about working in England? Here’s a list of industries where you can find employment:
- Warehouse work
- Transport/Logistics
- Hospitality/Hotel industry
- General construction
- Cleaning
- Care
- Gardening/Agriculture/Harvesting
Make sure to check the UK holidays and public holidays in 2025.
Minimum Wage in England – What Is It?
The minimum wage in the UK is not the same for all workers. It depends mainly on the age of the employee, similar to the minimum wage in the Netherlands.
In 2025, the hourly gross rates for different age groups are as follows:
- Under 21: National Minimum Wage (NMW) – £6.40 to £8.60.
- Over 21: National Living Wage (NLW) – £11.44, which equates to about £1,920 per month.
Salaries in the UK – How Much Do You Earn in England?
The UK has a system called Real Living Wage (RLW), which is the recommended hourly rate that is considered sufficient to provide employees with a decent standard of living. The rate is calculated based on current food prices, accommodation, etc.
In 2025, the RLW is:
- £13.15 for London residents.
- £12 for other areas.
It’s important to note that this is a recommendation from the government. Employers may or may not offer these rates in practice.
How much can you earn on average working in the UK?
| Industry/Position | Average Annual Gross Salary |
| Factory Worker | 22 000 – 25 000 GBP |
| Caregiver | 23 000 – 26 000 GBP |
| Waiter | 20 000 – 22 000 GBP |
| Construction Worker | 25 000 – 30 000 GBP |
| Chef | 26 000 – 30 000 GBP |
| Warehouse Worker | 23 000 – 26 000 GBP |
| Electrician | 35 000 – 40 000 GBP |
Salaries for a waiter range between £8 and £12 per hour. Another popular job in the UK is a truck or bus driver. Salaries in the transport industry average around £2,230. A factory worker can earn between £8 and £12 per hour, while a highly qualified programmer or IT specialist can earn from £20 to £40 per hour.
In the summer season, seasonal jobs in agriculture or gardening are easily available. The average salary for a seasonal worker is between £8 and £14 per hour.
Salaries in every industry depend on:
- The employer / agency.
- Professional qualifications and experience.
- Location.
- English language proficiency.
- Tips (in hospitality).
Employment Agencies in the UK
You can find work in the UK through job portals from employment agencies:
- jobsearch.gov.uk
- britishjobs.net
- monster.co.uk
- jobsite.co.uk
- jobs4network.co.uk
- topjobs.co.uk
Check out the latest job offers on europa.jobs!
