AdminLooking for a job in the United Kingdom with visa sponsorship? You’re in the right place.
The UK remains one of the most attractive destinations in the world for international professionals who want high‑quality employment, competitive pay, and global career growth.
Despite economic headwinds and stricter immigration enforcement, many large employers across sectors like technology, finance, healthcare, engineering, consulting, and professional services continue to hire global talent and sponsor visas under the Skilled Worker visa and other work categories.
This comprehensive guide unveils the top companies in the UK offering visa sponsorship in 2026. We break down major employers by industry, what roles they sponsor, why they matter for international jobseekers, and tips on how to increase your chances of landing one of these coveted positions.
Understanding Visa Sponsorship in the UK
Before diving into the company list, let’s be clear about what “visa sponsorship” means in the UK job market. To work in the UK as a foreign national, most applicants require a visa.
One of the most common is the Skilled Worker visa — it replaces the old Tier 2 system and allows employers to sponsor professionals whose skills are needed in the UK economy. To qualify, a job must meet minimum skill and salary thresholds, and the employer must hold a valid sponsor licence.
Visa sponsorship means the company supports your visa application by issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), paying visa fees (in most cases), and demonstrating to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that you meet the criteria to bring you onboard.
Not every employer that *can* sponsor actually does so for every role — often they focus sponsorship on high‑skilled, high‑impact roles that are hard to fill locally.
Many of the companies listed below sponsor visas for roles at all levels, from graduate programmes to senior leadership, but competition is fierce, and hiring standards are high. Preparation, persistence, and strategic applications matter.
1. NHS (National Health Service)
The NHS is not just a healthcare provider — it’s one of the UK’s biggest sponsors of international talent. Because of chronic shortages in healthcare professions, the National Health Service actively recruits nurses, doctors, radiographers, physiotherapists, and allied health professionals from abroad.
It offers structured support for visa applicants, including Health and Care Worker visa sponsorship, relocation assistance, and in many cases help with settling into the UK system.
Thousands of healthcare workers enter the UK each year with NHS sponsorship, and in 2026 it remains a top choice for internationally trained professionals who want a stable, respected career while making a real impact.
The NHS also supports professional development and pathways to permanent settlement, making it attractive for long‑term career planning.
2. Amazon UK
Amazon is a global powerhouse spanning e‑commerce, logistics, cloud computing (AWS), artificial intelligence, and operations. In the UK, Amazon continues to sponsor a wide range of roles, from software developers, data scientists, and cloud engineers to operations managers and logistics specialists.
With offices in London and fulfilment centres across the country, Amazon offers competitive salaries, flexible work arrangements, and significant career progression opportunities.
The company’s scale means it regularly sponsors visas for highly technical roles, especially in software, AI, and cloud computing.
Amazon also hires experienced managers who can lead cross‑functional teams, deliver complex projects, and help build products used by millions of people worldwide. Visa sponsorship at Amazon is tied to meeting specific skill thresholds, so strong technical expertise and demonstrable project impact are key.
3. Google UK
Google’s UK operations form a major part of its European footprint, with hubs in London and other key cities. Google sponsors visas for top talent in software engineering, UX design, AI research, product management, and digital strategy.
With a reputation for innovation, big budgets, and global reach, Google attracts international applicants who want to work on pioneering technology and lead impactful initiatives.
Jobs at Google typically come with competitive compensation, generous benefits, and support through the visa process. Google sponsors roles that align with the UK’s strategic skill needs — particularly in machine learning, infrastructure engineering, cloud services, and security. Landing a role requires standout technical skills, excellent communication, and a track record of solving real‑world problems.
4. Microsoft UK
Microsoft’s presence in the UK spans cloud computing (Azure), business software (Dynamics, Office), cybersecurity, enterprise services, and more. The company regularly sponsors visas for software developers, cloud architects, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, and solutions experts.
Microsoft UK places a strong emphasis on digital transformation and innovation and looks for professionals who can help drive growth in cutting‑edge technologies.
Working at Microsoft means accessing vast professional development platforms, global teams, and the chance to impact millions of users. Visa sponsorship at Microsoft often focuses on mid‑ to senior‑level roles requiring deep domain knowledge, though early career opportunities exist in specialised technical teams.
5. Accenture UK
Accenture is a global consulting and professional services firm specialising in digital, cloud, and technology transformation. It sponsors visas for consultants, business analysts, cloud engineers, software developers, and digital transformation specialists.
Accenture’s work spans multiple industries — finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and public sector — meaning diverse career options for international professionals.
What sets Accenture apart is its strong commitment to upskilling employees. Visa‑sponsored hires often receive structured onboarding, training programmes, and opportunities to work on high‑impact client engagements. The company values innovative thinkers who can blend technical expertise with business insight.
6. Deloitte UK
Deloitte UK is one of the “Big Four” professional services firms and a major sponsor of skilled workers. The firm hires international professionals in audit, tax, risk advisory, consulting, technology, and cybersecurity.
Deloitte’s sponsorship often targets professionals who can support digital transformation projects, advanced analytics, compliance services, and strategic advisory work.
Deloitte offers structured career paths, mentorship opportunities, and access to global mobility programmes. While graduate sponsorship may vary by year and business needs, experienced hires with specialised skills remain in high demand.
Working at Deloitte means exposure to major clients, complex business problems, and the opportunity to build a global professional network.
7. PwC UK (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
PwC UK is another Big Four giant that continues to sponsor visa applications, particularly for roles in audit, consulting, data analytics, risk management, and financial advisory. PwC values global perspectives and hires talent that can bring fresh insight to business challenges across sectors.
Visa sponsorship at PwC is often paired with structured career development programmes and opportunities to work internationally. Candidates with strong quantitative skills, consulting experience, and certifications (like CFA, ACCA, or PMP) are particularly attractive. PwC’s brand and global footprint make it a powerful launchpad for international professionals.
8. KPMG UK
KPMG rounds out the Big Four firms with a strong presence in audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services. KPMG sponsors visas for skilled professionals who can support digital transformation, data analytics, risk management, and financial services delivery. The firm looks for candidates who can handle complex challenges and deliver strategic impact to clients across industries.
Visa sponsorship at KPMG often comes with structured training, mentorship, and access to professional certifications. International hires who bring niche technical skills or industry expertise are well‑positioned to succeed here.
9. EY (Ernst & Young)
EY UK sponsors visas for audit professionals, tax advisors, data analysts, cybersecurity professionals, and consultants. The firm’s international reach and diversified service portfolio — including consulting, transaction advisory, and technology — make it a strong choice for professionals with multidisciplinary skills.
EY’s sponsorship programmes are linked to their growth areas, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, and financial advisory. They emphasise inclusion, professional development, and continuous learning, which makes EY attractive for international talent focused on career progression.
10. HSBC UK
HSBC, one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations, sponsors visas for roles in finance, risk analysis, data science, compliance, and IT infrastructure. With a global network that spans Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond, HSBC values professionals who can bridge international markets and deliver cross‑border solutions.
Visa sponsorship at HSBC often targets mid‑ and senior‑level specialists, particularly those with experience in digital banking, treasury management, cybersecurity, and analytics. Competitive compensation and opportunities to rotate through international assignments make HSBC an appealing choice for global talent.
11. Barclays
Barclays is another major UK bank that sponsors international talent, especially in finance, technology, risk management, and innovation roles. The bank has a significant footprint in London and regional centres and hires professionals who can help advance its digital transformation, improve customer experiences, and manage evolving regulatory requirements.
Barclays sponsors visas for data engineers, business analysts, compliance professionals, and IT specialists. Experience in fintech, cloud platforms, or financial regulation adds extra weight to applications.
12. Unilever UK
Unilever — a global consumer goods leader — sponsors visas for roles in supply chain management, marketing, research and development, finance, and data analytics. With brands household names around the world, Unilever offers international professionals a chance to work on products that impact billions of lives.
Visa sponsorship at Unilever often comes with graduate programmes, rotational development paths, and leadership training. Candidates who demonstrate creativity, cross‑functional collaboration skills, and a passion for sustainability are particularly attractive to Unilever recruiters.
13. AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a global pharmaceutical and biotechnology firm that sponsors visas for scientists, clinical researchers, regulatory specialists, and engineers. With major research hubs in Cambridge and Macclesfield, AstraZeneca attracts international PhDs, experienced researchers, and STEM professionals working on cutting‑edge therapies and drug development.
Visa sponsorship at AstraZeneca comes with access to world‑class labs, multidisciplinary teams, and opportunities to contribute to real‑world healthcare innovations. Strong scientific credentials and a track record of impactful research make candidates competitive here.
14. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
GSK is another major pharmaceutical employer in the UK that sponsors visa applications for scientists, clinical trial specialists, and research engineers. The company focuses on areas like immunology, oncology, and vaccine development, making it a powerful choice for STEM professionals interested in healthcare innovation.
GSK sponsorship often goes to roles requiring deep technical expertise, extensive lab experience, or specialised regulatory knowledge. Candidates with strong publication records or advanced degrees are particularly valued.
15. Rolls‑Royce Holdings
Rolls‑Royce is a world‑renowned engineering and aerospace firm that sponsors visas for engineers, data analysts, aerospace technicians, and project managers. With work spanning propulsion systems, renewable energy applications, and advanced manufacturing, Rolls‑Royce demands high technical standards and offers strong career progression.
Visa sponsorship here typically goes to candidates with specialised engineering degrees, experience in aerospace systems, or expertise in advanced materials. Working at Rolls‑Royce offers access to high‑impact projects and global engineering teams.
16. BAE Systems
BAE Systems is a major player in defence, aerospace, and security and sponsors visas for engineers, cybersecurity experts, systems analysts, and project managers. The company works on high‑stakes contracts that require precision, innovation, and global collaboration.
Visa sponsorship at BAE Systems is competitive, focusing on niche technical roles that support national security, advanced systems development, and complex program delivery. Experience in defence engineering or secure systems enhances candidate appeal.
17. Capgemini UK
Capgemini is a global technology and consulting firm that sponsors visas for software developers, cloud engineers, data scientists, and business analysts. Focused on digital transformation and innovation, Capgemini works with clients across sectors such as finance, retail, and public services.
Visa sponsorship at Capgemini is tied to delivering solutions across emerging technologies like cloud platforms, automation, and analytics. Strong technical expertise and experience with large‑scale projects improve your chances of success.
18. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
TCS is a major IT services and consulting provider that sponsors visas for software developers, IT consultants, systems architects, and digital transformation experts. With clients across the UK and Europe, TCS values professionals who can deliver robust solutions in enterprise environments.
Visa sponsorship here is often tied to long‑term client engagements, making adaptability and client‑facing skills valuable. TCS also offers career development programmes and global mobility options.
19. Engineering and Infrastructure Firms
Several engineering and construction firms in the UK sponsor visas for civil engineers, structural designers, project managers, and environmental consultants. Companies like Arup, Laing O’Rourke, and Jacobs have licensed sponsor status and hire international professionals to support major infrastructure projects nationwide. These roles often demand specific technical qualifications and project experience but offer rewarding career paths in shaping the built environment.
20. Hospitality and Retail Employers
While less common than tech or healthcare, certain hospitality and retail groups such as Marriott Hotels, Hilton UK, and some supermarket chains sponsor visas for managerial roles, chefs, and specialised operational positions. Visa sponsorship in these sectors is more limited and competitive, often requiring strong professional experience and leadership skills.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Sponsored
Getting a visa‑sponsored job in the UK isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely possible if you approach it strategically:
- Target employers with sponsor licences — Focus applications on companies actively sponsoring visas.
- Match your skills to demand — Tech, healthcare, engineering, data, and financial services are high‑demand areas.
- Tailor your CV and cover letter — Highlight international experience, relevant skills, and how you meet salary/skill thresholds.
- Network aggressively — Reach out to hiring managers, attend virtual events, and join professional communities.
- Prepare for interviews — You’ll need to stand out on skills, communication, and fit — especially compared to local talent.
Final Thoughts
Securing a visa sponsorship job in the UK in 2026 is competitive, but the upside is real — global career growth, international experience, and a shot at working for world‑leading organisations.
The companies listed here are among the most active sponsors across major industries, and they represent strong target employers for international jobseekers.
Remember, visa sponsorship is not just about the job; it’s about the right fit between your skills and a company’s long‑term strategy. Do your homework, tailor your applications, and stay persistent — opportunities are there for those who prepare like pros.
Admin