Every year, more than 130 million people come to the UK. As of June 2025, the number of work visas granted in the UK is around 182,000. Some people with these visas already have jobs lined up before they arrive, while many others, like those coming in as students, come first and then start looking for work.
If you’re one of the newcomers looking for a job after arriving, you will quickly find that the UK job market can be very different from what you are used to. It is very competitive and may tire you out, considering that you need a job to thrive.
Usually, it’s not a lack of effort that’s holding many newcomers like yourself back. We have seen that in many cases, it is those little but serious mistakes that people didn’t even realise they were making. But not to worry, this article will help you recognise some of them and show you how to turn things around.
Not Understanding the UK Job Market
A lot of newcomers start applying for jobs without really knowing what the UK job market looks like. Employers here often rely heavily on formal applications, online systems, and strict processes. This system helps employers compare everyone fairly. It also makes it easier for them to filter candidates quickly, especially when hundreds apply for one job. Keep in mind that the UK market has a well-established contract sector, providing opportunities for high pay and specialised project-based work.
London is equally one of the most multicultural and accepting cities in the UK, but it’s also highly competitive and fast-moving. There’s a heavy opportunity in retail, restaurants, bars and construction roles. There are often available opportunities, but employers expect some experience. The cost of living/commute is, nevertheless, higher.
Overlooking the Importance of Your Work Visa Documents
When moving to the UK, it's essential to fully understand the type of visa you hold and the limitations that come with it. This is especially true when it comes to employment.
For example, student visa holders are typically restricted to working a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time. Exceeding this limit can result in serious consequences, including visa cancellation or future immigration issues.
If you're on a Skilled Worker visa, it’s important to target employers that are licensed sponsors. Not every company in the UK has the authority to sponsor foreign workers, so researching and applying to the right organisations is key. Additionally, be aware of any salary thresholds or occupation-specific criteria that may apply under your visa type.
Not Sorting Out a National Insurance Number Early Enough
This one catches a lot of people off guard. You can apply for jobs without a National Insurance (NI) number, but most employers won’t put you on payroll until you have it. Some newcomers wait until they get a job offer before applying for it, which causes delays. Others don’t even know what it is or think it’s only for people born in the UK.
The NI number is how the government tracks your taxes and contributions. Without it, employers see you as not ready to work, and that can make them skip you for someone who’s already sorted.
Not Understanding How Temporary or Zero-Hours Contracts Work
Most newcomers expect a full-time permanent job straight away. When they get offered zero-hours or temporary contracts, they either reject them or don’t take them seriously. But in the UK, these contracts are very common. They are often the only way to get a head start in the UK job market. Saying no to these jobs can mean missing out on work experience, references, and chances to move up.
Missing Out on Jobs That Need a DBS Check
In the UK, some jobs, especially in care and schools, require a background check called a DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service). It’s how employers make sure you don’t have any criminal history that would stop you from working with vulnerable people. Many newcomers only find out about it when they’re already deep into the hiring process. Some panic because they think it’s the same as a police check from their home country.
Not Realising How Much Your Postcode Affects Job Replies
In the UK, where you live can quietly affect how employers see your application. Some recruiters prefer candidates who live nearby or in easier-to-reach areas, especially for jobs that start early, end late, or don’t offer transport. If your CV shows you live far away or in a postcode known for being outside the main city, they might rescind you, assuming you’ll have transport issues or won’t last long in the job.
Not Tailoring Your CV
Another mistake we see with newcomers is that they use one CV and just send it everywhere. Although this seems easier, it rarely works. Every job vacancy is unique. Companies want specialists, not generalists, and if your CV doesn’t match what they are looking for, you won’t even get looked at.
Free Tool to Match Your CV With Any Job
Ignoring Small Jobs That Build UK Experience
In the UK, small jobs are often the stepping stones that help you get proper, stable work. Don’t wait for a perfect job before you start working. Start small, build your track record here, and level up from there.
Using the Wrong CV Style
One of the biggest shocks for people job hunting in the UK is how different CV expectations are. Many still use long CVs with photos, personal details like age or marital status, and colourful designs. In the UK, employers don’t want any of that. A UK-style CV is simple and focused on your experience and results.
View CV for Students: UK Format, Tips and Free Download
Not Explaining Language Skills Clearly
Language qualifications from abroad can confuse employers who aren’t familiar with them. Instead of listing test names, describe your practical level of English. For example: “Fluent in spoken and written business English” or “Intermediate level English for customer-care roles.”
Unrealistic Pay Expectations
What you earned in your home country often doesn’t translate directly to the UK. Before applying, research typical salaries for your role and location.
Forgetting That Bias Still Exists
Unfortunately, some bias still exists in hiring. If your name might be difficult to pronounce, you can consider adding a phonetic spelling. You don’t have to and shouldn’t have to change your name, but some candidates find this helps ensure they get the call. You don’t want the interviewer who is supposed to call you avoid doing so simply because they don’t want to embarrass themselves on the call.
Not Researching Whether Your Qualifications Are Recognised in the UK
Some newcomers assume that their academic or professional qualifications automatically carry the same weight in the UK. Unfortunately, many don’t. For example, certain engineering, teaching, medical, or finance qualifications may require UK accreditation before employers can accept them. Always check with the relevant professional body to see if your certificates are valid or if you need a local conversion.
Not Explaining Your Background Qualifications Clearly
Employers in the UK might not recognise your previous university or company names, even if they’re prestigious in your home country. Briefly explain your background. For example, “I completed my degree at the University of Lagos, a leading technical university in Nigeria” or “I worked for MyJobMag Consulting, a $20m firm specialising in construction projects.” This helps employers understand your experience quickly.
Finding work in the UK is not easy, especially when you don’t know all the unwritten rules. However, with some of the few points highlighted here, you should be able to get a good head start. Wishing you the best in your job search.
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