Australia and the UK share strong historical ties, making the UK a desirable destination for many Australians. Whether you're an Australian wanting to work in the UK, looking for a change in scenery, or seeking international career opportunities, understanding the UK work visa process is essential. This guide explores the UK working visa for Australian, detailing requirements, costs, and the application process.
The UK offers a thriving job market, a vibrant lifestyle, and proximity to Europe. Many Australians wanting to work in the UK find it an excellent way to enhance their careers while enjoying a new cultural experience.
Yes, an Australian can work in the UK, but they must obtain the appropriate visa. While Australians can visit the UK visa-free for tourism, working requires a legal work visa.
There are several visa options available for Aussies working in the UK, depending on qualifications, job offers, and ancestry links. Below are the most common UK work permit for Australian citizens:
The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most common UK work permits for Australian citizens. It is for professionals who have a job offer from a UK employer.
Requirements:
A confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
The job must meet skill and salary thresholds (minimum £26,500 per year or £10.75 per hour).
Proof of English proficiency (usually via an IELTS test).
Sufficient personal savings.
Cost:
Application fee: £610-£1,408 (varies by visa length and job type).
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year.
Other costs: Biometrics and document translation (if required).
This visa allows Australians wanting to work in the UK to enter without a job offer if they graduated from a top-ranking university.
Requirements:
A degree from a university listed as eligible in the last five years.
English proficiency.
Financial proof to support your stay.
Cost:
Application fee: Around £822.
IHS: £624 per year.
This visa is ideal for young Australians working in the UK temporarily.
Requirements:
Be between 18-35 years old.
Have at least £2,530 in savings.
Cost:
Application fee: £259.
IHS: £624 per year.
If you have a UK-born grandparent, you may qualify for this visa, allowing you to live and work in the UK.
Requirements:
Proof of a UK-born grandparent.
Ability to work and support yourself financially.
Cost:
Application fee: £520.
IHS: £624 per year.
The application process for a UK working visa for Australian involves several steps:
Determine which visa suits your situation, whether a Skilled Worker Visa, Youth Mobility Scheme, or Ancestry Visa.
Valid passport.
Job offer letter (if applicable).
Proof of qualifications.
Bank statements (for financial proof).
English proficiency results.
Applications are submitted via the UK Government’s official visa website.
Depending on the visa type, you’ll need to pay an application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
You’ll provide fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application center in Australia.
Processing times vary, but most work visas are processed within 3-8 weeks.
The total cost of obtaining a UK work visa depends on the visa type and duration. Below is a cost breakdown:
Securing a job before applying for a visa increases approval chances. Here are some ways to find jobs:
UK Job Boards: Indeed UK, TotalJobs, Reed.co.uk.
Recruitment Agencies: Hays, Michael Page, Robert Walters.
Networking: LinkedIn and industry events.
Once you have your visa, here’s what to expect when moving:
Accommodation: London is expensive; consider cities like Manchester, Birmingham, or Edinburgh.
Healthcare: Access the NHS after paying the IHS.
Banking: Open a UK bank account with HSBC, Barclays, or Monzo.
Cost of Living: Rent and transport can be high, but salaries are competitive.
For any Australian wanting to work in the UK, obtaining a visa is the first step. Whether applying for a Skilled Worker Visa, Youth Mobility Scheme, or UK Ancestry Visa, understanding the UK work permit for Australian citizens is essential. Planning ahead, securing a job, and ensuring financial stability will make the transition smoother.
If you need expert assistance, consulting the AUM Global, best migration agent can help streamline the application process.
