How to Find Jobs in the UK as a Pakistani Expat?
Dreaming of building your career in the UK as a Pakistani expat? The UK offers countless opportunities for career growth, a lively multicultural environment, and access to world-class education. Its strong economy and demand for skilled professionals make it a popular choice for those Pakistani expats seeking a fresh start abroad.
However, it’s not all sunshine and roses, there will be additional things and difficulties to dodge if you choose to work in a country other than your own. You’ll be up against people who probably have more contacts, a better know-how of the local economy and business, and cultural knowledge. To be able to confidently manage any international job, you will need to put in the time necessary to study as much as you can about the region, trends, and advancements.
Exploring the job market might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right steps, it’s easier than you think. Let’s look into the opportunities waiting for you in the UK.
Understanding the UK Job Market
People describe the UK employment market as taking on the shape of an “hourglass” as it has been evolving.
High-wage jobs: These are jobs that require high skills, like engineers or managers.
Middle-wage jobs: These jobs, like factory workers or office assistants, have been shrinking.
Low-wage jobs: These are jobs in the service sector, like cleaners or fast-food workers.
One of the main causes of this development is technology. Many mundane tasks that were formerly performed by individuals in middle-wage employment may now be completed by machines and computers.
As a result, many jobs are going extinct, leaving more individuals to work in low-skilled, low-paying employment or high-skilled, well-paid professions.
Top 4 Industries in the UK
Financial Services
The foundation of the UK economy is the financial industry, which is particularly well-known in London and supports both domestic and international finance. It offers growth in investment management, banking, and accounting.
Tech and IT
The UK’s IT and technology industry is a hub of creativity, with fintech, cybersecurity, and machine learning leading the way. Working for a start-up in this industry offers many opportunities for innovative ideas, high demand for qualified individuals, and excellent salary.
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
One of the biggest employers in the UK is the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry, where administrative and medical personnel are vital for public health. Here, careers provide both employment security, excellent salaries, and the satisfaction that comes from making people’s lives better.
Construction
The construction sector is crucial for the development of housing and infrastructure. Project management, engineering expertise, and problem-solving abilities are necessary. This industry continues to be one of the largest generators of the UK economy and brings in efficient, detail-oriented workers.
Requirements for Pakistani Expats
To secure a work visa in the UK, international candidates must meet specific conditions based on the visa type they are applying for. Below is a summary of general requirements and details for specific visas:
Types of Work Visas and Specific Conditions
Skilled Worker Visa:
- Eligible job offer in a qualified occupation.
- Certificate of sponsorship with a unique reference number.
- Valid for up to five years with renewal options.
Health and Care Worker Visa:
- Qualifications in health or social care (e.g., nurse, doctor, specialist).
- Employment by a Home Office-approved healthcare provider.
- Minimum salary aligned with healthcare roles.
Senior or Specialist Worker Visa:
- Transfer to a UK branch of your current employer.
- Proof of existing employment in an approved organization.
- Minimum salary requirements for eligible occupations.
Scale-Up Worker Visa:
- Job offer at a fast-growing UK business for a minimum of six months.
- Sponsorship from a scale-up business.
- Initial validity of two years, extendable for three more years.
Process of Getting a Job:
- Researching and Applying for Jobs:
Use popular websites in the UK to find jobs, use the best platforms in order to avoid scams or shady jobs. Here are some websites for your Job Hunting:
- Preparing Your CV and Cover Letter:
Here is how you should make your CV according to your skill set and experience
- Skill Based CV
If you have gaps in your work history, you can utilize the skills-based CV. If you are looking for a job that is unrelated to your degree or have little experience, this kind of CV template can also be helpful.It’s crucial to:
- Put your talents in the right spot.
- Use the same titles and clearly align your talents with the position description.
- You should also provide examples of how you have applied your skills in practical settings.
- Chronological CV
Sometimes known as a traditional, standard or a graduate CV, a chronological CV is used to match your qualifications and work experience with the requirements for the job role. It is the most commonly used type of CV and is structured in reverse chronological order i.e. the most recent qualifications and experience are listed first. It’s important to include:
- Dates and cover any gaps in your history
- Qualifications and work experience. Match these to the role you’re applying for
- Additional skills and knowledge. Cover essential criteria for the role.
- Using Recruitment Agencies:
Several UK recruitment agencies deal with international applicants, helping in finding jobs in the Uk for Pakistani graduates according to their skills. Here are some popular ones:
- Hays Recruitment
- Robert Walters
- Michael Page
- Reed Specialist Recruitment
- Adecco
Enhancing Skills and Qualifications
To increase your chances of securing a job, you should earn certifications that are of high demand in the UK job market. Such as:
- Project Management: PRINCE2,
- IT and Technology: CompTIA and Cisco (CCNA)
- Finance and Accounting: ACCA and CFA.
Using platforms like Coursera, Udemy and Linkedin are essential and an easy option to gain expertise and certifications.
Prepare for Job Interviews
Follow this simple three step rule for interviews, don’t overthink it, just be prepared accordingly.
- Research and Preparation
- Demonstrate Professionalism and Engagement
- Follow-up and Thank You
Mock Interviews:
- Use services like InterviewBuddy for live practice.
- Record yourself responding to questions to analyze and improve your answers.
Preparation, skill-building, and using recruitment agencies can significantly boost your chances of landing a job in the UK as an international applicant!
Conclusion
Navigating the job market as an international applicant may seem tough at first but if you have the right qualifications and the right guidance you’ll find jobs in no time. By using relevant job searching platforms, enhancing your skills through coursera and udemy, and preparing the right CV, you will have an edge over the other applicants.
As you settle for your new job in the UK, sending money back to Pakistan becomes essential. Here is where TangoPay comes, which offers a secure, cost effective, and efficient way of sending money back to Pakistan. If you’re looking for a way to make international transfers then TangoPay is tailor-made for you, offering a convenient solution to your money sending problems.
