Are you ready to move to a country where English is the main language, salaries are high, and the economy is massive? The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for Kenyan professionals. Here is exactly how to get a Skilled Worker Visa and find a job in the UK this year.
Why the UK is the Perfect Choice
If you already speak English, the UK is one of the easiest countries in Europe to move to. They introduced the Skilled Worker Visa in 2020, which opened the doors for thousands of international workers. The visa allows you to bring your family, and after 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—which is basically permanent residency.
For a complete comparison of all countries, read our Ultimate Guide to Working Abroad.
The “Skilled Worker Visa” Requirements
To get this visa, you need three things:
- A Job Offer from a UK employer that has a license to sponsor workers.
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from that employer.
- A minimum salary of £38,700 per year (or lower if the job is on the shortage list).
The 3 In-Demand Sectors (Where Kenyans are Hired)
1. Healthcare (NHS & Care Homes)
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is chronically understaffed. They are actively recruiting nurses, doctors, and caregivers from Kenya.
- Salary: £28,000 to £35,000 for nurses (Ksh 4 – 5 million).
- Fast-Track: The NHS has a fast-track sponsorship process. If you are a nurse with a degree and 2 years of experience, you have a very high chance of getting a job.
2. Hospitality and Tourism
The UK is the world’s second-largest tourist destination. There is a massive shortage of chefs, waiters, and hotel staff.
- Salary: £22,000 to £28,000 per year (Ksh 3 – 4 million).
3. IT and Technology
If you are a software developer, data analyst, or cybersecurity expert, you are highly sought after. UK tech companies are desperate for talent and will pay for your visa.
- Salary: £45,000 to £70,000 per year (Ksh 6 – 10 million).
If you are looking for a higher salary, check out our guide to Jobs in Australia.
The Best Websites to Find Jobs
- Indeed UK (uk.indeed.com): Use the filter “Visa Sponsorship” to find jobs specifically for internationals.
- NHS Jobs (jobs.nhs.uk): This is the official job portal for the UK health service. If you are a nurse, apply here first.
- Reed (reed.co.uk): A massive UK job board that lists international opportunities.
How to Apply (The Step-by-Step Process)
- Update Your CV: UK CVs are different from Kenyan CVs. They must be short (2 pages max), with no photo and no date of birth. Focus on your skills.
- Apply on the job boards above. Target the NHS if you are in healthcare.
- Get the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): If they hire you, the employer will issue you this document.
- Apply for the Visa: You will apply online, pay the fee (approx. £1,500), and give your fingerprints at the UK Visa Application Centre in Nairobi.
- Fly to the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need a job offer to go to the UK?
A: Yes. To get a Skilled Worker Visa, you must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor. You cannot just land in the UK and look for work.
Q: How long does it take to get a UK visa?
A: It takes 3 to 8 weeks from the time you apply.
Q: Can my family come with me?
A: Yes. Your spouse and children can apply for dependent visas. They will be able to work in the UK without any restrictions.
