England offers one of the world's most dynamic and welcoming job markets for international professionals. Whether you're a recent graduate looking to launch your career or an experienced professional seeking new opportunities with your family in tow, the country's robust economy and diverse industries provide plenty of opportunities for expatriates. So, in this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about finding and securing employment in England, from understanding the job market and navigating the application process to mastering workplace culture and legal requirements.
Overview of England's job market
Whether you are looking to boost your career in the UK or start your business, there are many professional opportunities for new graduates and experienced candidates.
With a modern, service-based economy and strong employment protections, England remains an attractive destination for international talent.
Key statistics
- The employment rate (in the UK as a whole) stands at 75.1% .
- The unemployment rate is 4.6%.
- There are over one million job vacancies available across various industries.
England's job market is diverse and offers opportunities ranging from traditional sectors, like finance and healthcare, to emerging fields in technology and renewable energy.
Professional opportunities in England
Due to its geographic situation, the distribution of labour is not consistent across England.
Finding a job in the southeast of England and other big cities - like Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool - may be easier than in other regions, like London. After all, it's no surprise that the broadest range and most lucrative jobs are in the country's capital city.
The biggest industries in England that offer the most work positions are:
- Banking and finance;
- Insurance;
- Engineering;
- Healthcare;
- Education;
- Recruitment and HR.
Other important sectors include metals, chemicals, aerospace, shipbuilding, motor vehicles, food processing, design, the arts and electronic and communications equipment.
If you're seeking employment within a multinational corporation in the UK, consider exploring opportunities at well-established companies such as Unilever, AstraZeneca, Royal Dutch Shell, BHP, Rio Tinto (in mining), GlaxoSmithKline (in pharmaceuticals) and HSBC, among others.
Despite the mass privatisation in the UK, the biggest employers remain (the biggest employer in Europe with 1.4 million skilled employees), and (DWP).
Graduate jobs in England
According to , the most popular graduate employers include Google, Amazon, Microsoft, AstraZeneca, Apple, and Deloitte.
England's was introduced under reforms announced in the government's May 2025 Immigration White Paper. The TSL replaces the Immigration Salary List.
According to the TSL, there is a shortage of occupations in England that span roles from managers in logistics, directors in consultancy services and laboratory technicians, to dancers and choreographers, pipe fitters and authors, writers and translators.
Looking for a job in England
There are several ways you can search for job vacancies in England.
Where to search
Online
The best spot to start your job hunt is online. Start with Íæż½ã½ã's dedicated jobs page for jobs in England. You can expand your search using established job websites like , and . You can also register and submit your CV on websites like (a government agency that's part of DWP), , and .
Newspapers
Have a look at classified ads in your local newspapers, either in print or online. Many job vacancies in England are still advertised in the media, including publications like , , and even the .
Job fairs
Career or are organised frequently in England, especially in large cities, so do consider visiting as many as possible. These types of fairs make it easy to meet recruiters from various sectors - all you need to do is bring your CV and a positive attitude, and be prepared to initiate conversations with industry or company representatives.
Recruitment agencies
Many employers in England turn to recruitment agencies for a faster hiring process and candidates with expert knowledge. An external recruitment agency will support a company's HR team by sifting through the many applications they receive, identifying the top candidates that will be contacted for an interview. Besides being costly, though, recruitment agencies aren't great at spotting candidates who are a good cultural fit for organisations because their selection process is based on qualifications, skills and professional experience.
Prepare your professional profile
Before applying, ensure that you adapt your CV to UK standards and that your social media presence, particularly on LinkedIn, is up-to-date and professional. Your online presence can increase your chances of networking and landing a new job in England.
You can also sign up for the , which provides support, career advice and services like CV editing.
Building your network
Developing a professional network is important since many vacancies are not advertised, and job seekers learn about them by word of mouth.
Íæż½ã½ã's forum is an excellent tool for getting out of your comfort zone and connecting with industry connections. You can also use the platform to inform people about the type of work you're looking for or to inquire about vacancies and future opportunities.
Explore all opportunities
Don't overlook speculative applications as they are always worth a try, especially when wanting to work for a smaller business where employers are more hands-on and can develop a rapport with each employee.
Application process
Most job applications in England require submitting your CV and a cover letter via email or by completing an online application form through a company portal.
Remember to keep both documents clear and concise while communicating your ambitions and motivation!
How to apply for a job in England
While many expatriates have learned on the go, seeking advice from those who have been there before is advised. Here are some tips to help you get the best out of the UK job application process.
CV and cover letter
Curriculum Vitae (CV) and cover letter requirements can differ from one country to another. So, it's best to research what you should (and shouldn't) include in both when applying for jobs in England.
Your CV
The primary objective of your CV is to showcase your education, professional experience and skills - making them attractive to potential employers, HR managers or recruiting agencies. It should highlight your biggest successes in a clear, concise manner.
Edit your CV often, depending on the job you're applying for. For example, don't hesitate to remove information from your CV that isn't relevant for a particular job you're applying for.
Here are some tips for creating a great CV:
- Use free graphic design platforms like Canva to create modern CV templates.
- Include your contact details, a short personal statement, your education, work experience (in reverse date order, starting from the most recent), your skills (hard and soft skills, for example) and your interests and/or volunteering experience.
- Use bullet points to explain your responsibilities in each role briefly.
- Make sure your spelling and grammar are checked before you send it out!
- Save your CV as a PDF to make sure it can't be opened and edited by someone else.
- Finally, there's no need to include your date of birth or a photograph on your CV.
Cover letter
Most job applications in England require a cover letter to accompany your application. A cover letter is an A4 document sent as a complementary document to your CV. Hence, the information on the cover letter shouldn't repeat what you have written on the CV.
Instead, it should tell the employer why you are the best candidate for this job, why you are attracted to it, and what you will bring to the team.
Here are some tips as a starting point for an exceptional cover letter:
- Include your personal details at the top right-hand side of the letter (same format as the CV).
- Make the first paragraph as captivating as possible, as it is critical. Many employers won't even go beyond that.
- Your cover letter should be on a single page, and the vital information should be in the first quarter. So, if employers do not complete the reading, they will still grasp the essential points early on.
- Highlight skills and experience relevant to the job you are applying for.
- Seek the help of a native English speaker to proofread your English. Even if English is your first language, a second pair of eyes is always helpful!
Good to know:
Some industries like hospitality (e.g., hotels, bars and restaurants) might require an in-person application. If you want to be proactive, calling or emailing to inquire about any job opening(s) is also acceptable.
Before sending, give your email a precise subject line that clearly states your intention, keeping in mind that this is what an employer will see before deciding whether to open your email or not.
Job interviews in England
The job interview can differ across England in different industries, but it is normal to have a 45 minute interview with up to three people (especially for larger companies). During this interview, they will ask questions about your profile and the position you want to fill.
Some companies hold their interviews in stages and include more interviewers at different points of the process, so you may be invited for a second or third interview.
Do research beforehand
Whether a face-to-face interview or a video interview, preparation is critical to performing well and hopefully, landing the job. Before showing up for your interview, it'd be beneficial to search for and familiarise yourself with the following:
- The job's sector;
- The company (especially its ethics, vision and mission);
- The responsibilities of the role
- The people who will be interviewing you (usually stated in the interview invitation).
Typically, at the end of the interview process, you'll have time to ask your own questions. You will make a good impression and show genuine interest in the job if you ask a couple of questions about the role or the organisation, so we recommend you prepare those in advance.
Practice generic answers
No matter how progressive or innovative a company is, during the interview, they will ask some of the common and traditional interview questions (e.g., Tell us about yourself; Why do you want to work for us? What are your greatest strengths?).
While these questions might be familiar, it's worth remembering that you'll likely feel some pressure during the interview, which may affect your performance. So it's highly recommended that you practise your answers beforehand.
Create a list of bullet points with the most important things you'd like to bring up at the interview for each answer. You don't need to memorise these entirely - just the main points, which will allow you to elaborate in front of the interviewer(s).
It's also worth noting here that your interviewer(s) will converse with you in English, so make sure to practise your answers in English, especially any jargon that's specific to your profession.
Stay calm during the interview
At the interview, answer at your own pace. You are not on trial; consider the interview a conversation and an opportunity to discuss yourself without interruptions.
They invited you because of your CV, so be kind to yourself and be calm. If you are unsure whether you got a question right during the interview, don't risk it by giving an irrelevant answer.
Instead, take time and feel free to ask for clarification or encourage the interviewer to reword the question. You can also use this tactic to earn precious time to think about what you want to say and how to construct your answer.
Bring out your personality
An interview is not all about your CV, your qualifications and previous experience.
Interviewers are also looking for people who will match the company's culture and bring something extraordinary to the team. So smile, and add a little personality to your answers.
Don't talk money (yet)
Avoid mentioning the salary unless the interviewer specifically mentions it. This discussion usually comes at the end of an interview process when a job offer is being made. Asking about money before you even know if you're right for the position can make you look inexperienced, or worse, unprofessional.
Ask for feedback
After the interview, sending a thank-you email to your interviewer is polite and professional.
This will help them keep your profile in mind and encourage further contact. You can send it on the day of the interview or after about a week if you get no feedback.
Even if the interview yields no result, see it as a learning process, and remember to ask the HR for feedback on what you can improve. This is deemed reasonable in the UK. Critical feedback will help you concentrate and improve in your next opportunity.
Work visas in England
To work in England, you will need a work visa. To get one, you will need to have secured a work contract or job from a reputable employer in England. They are required to sponsor your work visa.
If you are already living in England, the procedures relating to work visas are different, but for expats relocating here, it's likely you'll be applying from abroad.
The different types of work visas available include:
- Skilled Worker visa in England;
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility);
- Health and Care Worker visa;
- Graduate Trainee visa (Global Business Mobility);
National Insurance in England
Many expats know it as social security, but here in England, it's called National Insurance (NI).
NI is a system of taxes that funds the country's state pension and benefits. As an expat, it's important to understand your obligations.
When you begin earning more than the stipulated minimum wage, you are expected to make National Insurance Contributions (NICs) while living and working in England.
Íæż½ã½ãriates can if they've never had one. You can apply if you live in England, have the right to work in England, and you're working, looking for work, or have an offer to start work. If you already have a residence permit or eVisa, you may already have an NI number.
Once you have your NI number, it'll remain the same for life - and it's made up of two letters, six numbers and a final letter. For example, QQ123456B.
National Insurance classes
There are , and the class you pay depends on your employment status and how much you earn:
Class 1 (employed workers):
- Who pays: employees and employers.
- Current rates (2025 to 2026):
- Employees: 8% on earnings between £12,570-£50,270 annually, then 2% above.
- Employers: 15% on earnings above £4,992 annually.
Class 2 (self-employed):
- Who pays: Self-employed with profits over £6,845 annually.
- Current rate (2025 to 2026): £3.50 per week.
- Íæż½ã½ã relevance: Only applies if you're self-employed in England.
Class 3 (voluntary contributions):
- Who pays: Anyone wanting to maintain their benefit entitlements.
- Current rate (2025 to 26): £17.75 per week.
- Íæż½ã½ã relevance: Most relevant for expats living abroad.
Class 4 (self-employed additional):
- Who pays: Self-employed with profits over £12,570 annually.
- Current rates (2025 to 26): 6% on profits £12,570 to £50,270, then 2% above.
- Íæż½ã½ã relevance: Only applies if you're self-employed in England.
Tax thresholds
The amount of income tax you pay will depend on your tax code as well as how much of your taxable income is above your (which is £12,570 per year). This is the amount of income you do not have to pay tax on.
The table below shows a quick overview of the current tax rates in England:
Band | Taxable income | Tax rate |
Personal allowance | Up to £12,570 | 0% |
Basic rate | £12,571 to £50,270 | 20% |
Higher rate | £50,271 to £125,140 | 40% |
Additional rate | over £125,140 | 45% |
More information about tax rates, bands and allowances available can be found on .
Work contracts in England
You will be asked to sign a work contract upon getting a new job in England. Make sure to read it thoroughly and note the following details:
- The language the contract is written in: It must be written or translated clearly into English. This will be helpful in case the employee needs legal assistance while in the UK.
- Probation period in employment: the length and terms of the trial period.
- Contract duration: The contract duration must be noticeable, especially when it has an ending date.
- The salary: the currency, the tax rate, and the employee's negotiation power should be stated.
- Attached benefits: It may include accommodation, air tickets, healthcare, or support for family members such as children and other dependents.
- Termination notice period.
- Redundancy package.
Starting your new job in England
Some employment contracts include a trial or probation period during which both the employee and the employer can evaluate the employment agreement, especially if one party is not meeting expectations.
The terms and conditions of the trial period must be spelled out clearly in the contract. Usually, the trial period lasts from three to six months.
Once you're settled in, make sure to check with your employer about a few key things:
- Workplace insurance: Your employer should provide insurance that covers you for accidents, injuries at work or illness caused by your job.
- Company pension scheme: If your employer offers one, it's worth joining as it's a good way to boost your state pension for retirement (more on this later).
- National Insurance contributions: Confirm that your employer is deducting the right amount from your salary for your state pension.
These might seem like boring admin tasks, but sorting them out early will save you headaches later on.
Salary and minimum wage in England
The you'll receive in England depends on your age and whether you're an apprentice, but the latter may not be a common circumstance for expatriates moving here.
The rates change every year on 1 April, and currently they are:
- £12.21 (aged 21 and over);
- £10 (aged 18 to 20);
- £7.55 (aged under 18);
- £7.55 (apprentice rate).
Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they're either:
- aged under 19,
- aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship.
Based on the latest from PAYE Real Time Information, the median monthly pay across all industries in England is £2,521 (as of May 2025), which equates to approximately £30,252 annually.
This represents what a typical worker earns - half of all employees earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
The mean (average) monthly pay is higher at £3,343 (approximately £40,116 annually), but this figure is skewed upward by high earners and doesn't reflect the typical worker's experience. For most expatriates, the median figure may provide a more realistic expectation of earning potential.
These figures represent seasonally adjusted data across all industries and skill levels. Of course, individual salaries will vary significantly based on factors like:
- Industry and profession;
- Location (London wages are typically higher);
- Experience and qualifications;
- Company size and sector.
Pensions in England
As an expat, you may be familiar with end-of-service gratuity. This is a monetary benefit that's paid to employees as a token of appreciation for their services to a company.
In England, though, gratuity doesn't exist. Instead, if you work in England, you are entitled to a pension. A pension helps you to save for retirement, and can be received via the state (known as the ), through the company you work for, or via a private pension scheme.
However, expatriates moving here are only eligible for the state pension after ten years of accumulated contributions. When you begin receiving the State Pension also depends on when you reach .
For example, someone born in 1992 will reach the current State Pension age in 2060 when they are 68 years old.
Work conditions in England
Getting to grips with England's workplace culture will help you settle into your new job much more easily as an expatriate.
The country has good worker protections, and most people here aim for a decent work-life balance, though there are some cultural quirks around communication and office dynamics that are worth knowing about.
Working hours and schedule
Most jobs run from Monday to Friday, typically between 9 am and 5.30 pm with a 30-minute lunch break around noon or a bit later.
You can't legally work more than 48 hours a week unless you sign an agreement to opt out or get paid overtime. If you're under 18, you can only work eight hours a day and no more than 40 hours a week.
Before you sign your contract, make sure your working hours are clearly spelled out, including whether you're expected to work overtime and if it's paid.
Your employer doesn't have to pay you during your lunch break, but some do.
Leave entitlements
All workers in England are entitled to the following:
- Annual leave (holiday): you'll get between five to six weeks of paid holiday (this includes the legal minimum plus bank holidays).
- Sick leave: everyone gets though your employer might offer more.
- Maternity leave: mums get a full year off, with 39 weeks paid.
- Paternity leave: is currently up to two weeks long.
- Bank holidays: there are eight public holidays in England throughout the year.
If you're sick for more than seven days in a row, you'll need a doctor's note to share with your employer, also known as a fit note or sick note.
Flexible working rights
You can ask your employer for training opportunities and flexible working arrangements. If your current hours don't work for you, you can request changes like working part-time, from home or job sharing.
Depending on your situation, you might have the legal right to make what's called a 'statutory request' for flexible working. If you do this, your employer has to:
- Take your request seriously;
- Give you an answer within two months;
- Explain why if they say no.
You can submit up to two formal requests per year.
Work culture in England
Workplace etiquette and communication
British workplace culture is big on politeness, being on time and not being too pushy.
Meetings often begin with a chat about the weather or weekend, people rarely argue directly - instead, you'll hear things like "I'm not sure that's quite right" or "That might be tricky," which usually means they disagree.
Humour is used a lot to keep things light, but keep it appropriate.
Workplace dress code in England
Most offices in England have a smart casual or business casual dress code, but this can vary depending on the industry you're working in.
Traditional sectors like banking and law still tend to be formal, while creative and tech companies are much more relaxed.
If you're not sure, it's better to be slightly overdressed for your first few days until you get the gist of how everyone else dresses in your company.
Tea culture and social aspects
The office tea round is a real thing - when someone asks if anybody fancies a brew, it's polite to join in. Taking turns making tea or coffee for your colleagues is expected, and it's a good way to get to know people. Many offices have kitchen areas where people have quick chats throughout the day.
After all, building relationships with colleagues is important, but it should happen naturally. After-work drinks are also common, but completely optional. Office politics are usually quite subtle - pay attention to what's not being said and avoid gossip, which can damage your reputation.
Professional development
Companies in England usually encourage learning and development, going so far as to add a development and learning hour to their monthly calendar.
You can ask your employer for training opportunities, and many will support further education, professional courses, or attending conferences. So, don't be shy about discussing your career goals with your manager during reviews.
Speaking of - most companies in England will do annual or twice-yearly performance reviews (often called appraisals). These are two-way conversations about what you've achieved, where you can improve, and your career development rather than just your boss telling you what they think.
Regular one-to-one meetings with your manager are also common and give you ongoing opportunities for feedback and support.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
