Who Are the UK’s Top 10 Employers in 2024, and Do They Hire Foreign Nationals?
The United Kingdom remains a global economic powerhouse with the sixth-largest national economy by nominal GDP. Its stable financial infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and world-class educational institutions have made it a magnet for both local and international talent. The country hosts over 2 million actively trading companies, including some of the world’s largest, creating a dynamic job market.
In the UK, there are primarily two categories of large employers: public sector employers, which include government agencies, the NHS, and other public bodies, and private sector employers, ranging from multinational corporations to high-growth startups. Many of these organisations continuously seek skilled workers, including foreign nationals. If you are wondering whether these top UK employers hire foreign nationals and offer visa sponsorship, here’s an updated look at the top 10 employers in 2024.
1. NHS
Number of Employees: c. 1,490,000
Visa Sponsorship: Yes (depending on the role)
Sector: Public Sector
The National Health Service (NHS) remains the largest employer in the UK and a significant provider of visa-sponsored employment opportunities. The NHS is spread across NHS England, NHS Scotland, NHS Wales, and Health & Social Care in Northern Ireland. Due to its vast demand for healthcare professionals and support staff, the NHS is an A-rated visa sponsor and regularly hires international talent, especially in healthcare, IT, and operational roles.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs at the NHS here.
2. Tesco
Number of UK Employees: c. 345,000
Visa Sponsorship: Yes (depending on the role)
Sector: Private Sector
Tesco PLC remains one of the UK’s largest private employers, operating supermarkets, Tesco Mobile, Tesco Bank, and more. While many part-time or hourly-paid positions do not meet visa sponsorship criteria, some specialised roles, particularly in management, technology, and supply chain, are eligible for visa sponsorship. International applicants with the right skills and qualifications may find opportunities here.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs at Tesco here.
3. Sainsbury’s
Number of UK Employees: c. 189,000
Visa Sponsorship: Rarely (depending on the role)
Sector: Private Sector
Sainsbury’s remains the UK’s second-largest supermarket chain. Although it employs a large workforce, the majority of roles are in retail operations and do not meet visa sponsorship requirements. However, technical and managerial positions, especially in IT and finance, may be eligible. Sainsbury’s typically prioritises candidates with the existing right to work in the UK.
4. British Army
Number of Employees: 148,230
Visa Sponsorship: Rarely (conditions apply)
Sector: Public Sector
The British Army is a significant public sector employer responsible for national defence both at home and abroad. With over 148,000 personnel, it plays a key role in the British Armed Forces. Due to the sensitive nature of its work, visa sponsorship remains extremely limited. However, there are exceptions for certain roles, especially for citizens from Commonwealth countries or individuals who have resided in the UK for a considerable period.
5. Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
Number of UK Employees: c. 90,000
Visa Sponsorship: No
Sector: Public Sector
As the UK’s largest civil service department, the DWP plays a crucial role in social welfare, pensions, and child maintenance policies. However, it adheres to Civil Service Recruitment & Nationality Rules, which limit eligibility to specific groups, such as UK nationals, Irish citizens, and certain Commonwealth and EEA nationals. Visa sponsorship is generally not available.
6. Ministry of Justice
Number of UK Employees: c. 70,000
Visa Sponsorship: No
Sector: Public Sector
The Ministry of Justice continues to be one of the largest government departments responsible for the country’s legal framework. Like other civil service departments, visa sponsorship is rare due to strict recruitment and nationality rules. Opportunities are mainly available to UK nationals and select Commonwealth citizens.
7. Ministry of Defence
Number of UK Employees: c. 57,000
Visa Sponsorship: No
Sector: Public Sector
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) manages the UK’s defence strategy and oversees the British Armed Forces. Visa sponsorship is extremely rare, with most roles reserved for UK nationals or specific groups as per the Civil Service rules.
8. HSBC
Number of UK Employees: c. 48,000
Visa Sponsorship: Yes (depending on the role)
Sector: Private Sector
HSBC remains a top player in global finance, with significant operations in the UK. The bank frequently hires international talent for roles in technology, finance, and management, offering visa sponsorship for suitable candidates. Whether you’re a graduate or an experienced professional, HSBC provides ample opportunities for those who meet the skill and salary thresholds.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs at HSBC here.
9. Metropolitan Police Service (MPS)
Number of UK Employees: c. 47,000
Visa Sponsorship: No
Sector: Public Sector
As the largest police force in the UK, the MPS plays a critical role in law enforcement in London. The MPS usually hires individuals with the existing right to work in the UK, particularly those with settled or pre-settled status, given the sensitive nature of policing roles.
10. Barclays
Number of UK Employees: c. 42,000
Visa Sponsorship: Yes (depending on the role)
Sector: Private Sector
Barclays continues to be a leading financial institution in the UK. The bank offers visa sponsorship for roles in technology, investment banking, and corporate management. It is also one of the top employers for international students and professionals, making it a good option for those seeking a career in finance.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs at Barclays here.
Comparison with 2023: Key Changes in the UK’s Top Employers
When compared to 2023, there have been some notable shifts in the rankings and employee numbers. The British Army has maintained its position as the fourth-largest employer in the UK. Tesco and Sainsbury’s have seen modest increases in employee numbers, reflecting ongoing growth and expansion in retail operations. This stability indicates that these supermarket giants continue to play a crucial role in the UK job market.
In the public sector, organisations like the Department for Work and Pensions and the Ministry of Justice have experienced slight reductions in staff numbers, consistent with ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency and modernise operations.
HSBC remains steady in the eighth spot, reflecting its stable presence as one of the leading financial institutions in the UK. The Metropolitan Police Service and Ministry of Defence maintain their positions as critical public sector employers, with limited visa sponsorship opportunities due to the nature of their work.
Overall, the public sector continues to dominate the list in terms of sheer employee numbers. However, private sector employers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, HSBC and Barclays remain more flexible in offering visa sponsorship, particularly for skilled roles. For foreign nationals seeking employment in the UK, focusing on private sector opportunities remains the most viable option.
Conclusion
The UK’s top employers in 2024 continue to offer mixed opportunities for foreign nationals. While public sector organisations like the NHS remain strong in providing visa-sponsored roles, most government bodies and civil service departments do not offer sponsorship due to legal restrictions. In contrast, private sector companies such as HSBC, Barclays, and Tesco offer more visa sponsorship options, particularly in skilled roles. If you’re seeking visa-sponsored jobs in the UK, focusing on private sector roles may increase your chances of success.
