Unskilled Job in UK with Visa Sponsorship for Nigeria in 2025
Finding an unskilled job in the UK with visa sponsorship as a Nigerian isn’t easy. In fact, it’s very rare. The UK’s immigration system prioritizes skilled workers, and sponsorship for low-skilled roles is limited. You might have seen false claims online making it seem easy, but the reality is different. However, rare doesn’t mean impossible. Some sectors like agriculture, care work and hospitality might offer sponsorships if there’s a shortage of local workers. What is important here is knowing where to look, how to apply and what to expect. In this post, we’ll walk you through all you need to know about unskilled job opportunities for Nigerians in the UK.
Why are Unskilled Workers Important?
Unskilled workers are vital to the UK economy, keeping industries like agriculture, healthcare, hospitality, and logistics running smoothly. They do important tasks like food production, cleaning, caregiving, and warehouse operations. These jobs, although requiring minimal formal education, are essential to daily life. Without unskilled workers, businesses would struggle to meet demand and services would be disrupted. They also fill labour shortages, especially in physically demanding or less desirable roles. Their contributions ensure efficiency, stability and productivity across various sectors making them an indispensable part of the workforce.
Visa for Unskilled Workers in the UK
If you’re looking for unskilled job opportunities in the UK, the Seasonal Worker visa is the easiest option in 2025. It allows foreign workers to take temporary jobs in agriculture, horticulture and poultry farming where there is often a labour shortage. Bear in mind that the UK government has set aside 45,000 visas; 43,000 for jobs like fruit picking and flower cultivation and 2,000 for poultry processing between October and December.
This visa is valid for up to 6 months (for horticultural roles) and requires a job offer from a licensed UK employer. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and show they have £1,270 in savings unless their employer covers the cost. However, this visa does not allow you to bring family members or apply for permanent residency. Since there are limited visas, competition is high. If you’re interested, apply early, meet all the requirements and get a job offer in advance. But if you’re targeting other roles outside agriculture, then the Skilled Visa might still be an option ONLY if your employer can’t find a local to fill the labour shortage in that industry but this is very rare and generally not available.
Requirements for UK Visa Sponsorship for Unskilled Jobs
The application process for a visa with sponsorship requires these essential qualifications.
1. All unskilled job applicants require a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) which their employer must issue to explain the details and duties of the position.
2. You need to obtain a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsorship license and provides you with a Certificate of Sponsorship.
3. Basic English proficiency must be proved for unskilled roles through tests such as IELTS even though it is not a requirement for the job.
4. Applicants from tuberculosis requirement countries need to present a valid tuberculosis test certificate.
5. You need to show proof of funds worth at least £1,270 in savings which have been held for 28 consecutive days before your application unless your employer provides this amount.
Top 9 Unskilled Jobs in the UK
Here are the top 9 unskilled jobs in the UK that may have opportunities for Nigerians, including visa sponsorship:
1. Care Assistant
Care assistants help elderly or disabled people with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal prep. The UK has a shortage of care workers, and some employers may sponsor visas through the Health and Care Worker visa. This job is physically and emotionally demanding but can end up being a rewarding and stable one in the long run. Experience isn’t always required but compassion and patience are important for success in this role.
2. Farm Worker
Agricultural jobs like fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, and livestock care are common under the UK’s Seasonal Worker visa scheme. These roles are also physically demanding and often require working in all weather conditions. Pay is usually hourly, but some employers provide accommodation to make things convenient. Bear in mind that the demand for seasonal workers is high, especially during harvest periods. So, this is one of the most accessible unskilled jobs for Nigerians.
3. Warehouse Operative
Warehouse operatives sort, pack and load goods in distribution centres. Companies like Amazon and Tesco often hire for these roles, especially during peak seasons. The job involves physical labour, long shifts and sometimes night work, so you have to be mentally prepared. Visa sponsorship is rare but some logistics companies may sponsor workers if they can’t fill vacancies locally. Also, no qualifications are required but efficiency and teamwork skills are important.
4. Construction Labourer
Construction labourers assist skilled workers by moving materials, preparing sites and cleaning up after work. Experience isn’t necessary but physical strength and endurance are. Some UK construction companies may sponsor foreign workers if there’s a shortage of local labour. However, this work is physically demanding and often done outdoors. The good thing about this is that you are often paid decent wages and have career progression opportunities in the industry.
5. Hospitality Worker (Housekeeping, Kitchen Assistant, Waitstaff)
Hotels, restaurants and catering businesses hire workers for housekeeping, dishwashing and waitstaff roles. These roles don’t require formal education but good customer service skills and a strong work ethic are key here. Visa sponsorship for these jobs is rare but some high demand hospitality sectors especially in rural areas or resorts may sponsor you when local worker shortages occur.
6. Delivery Driver
Delivery drivers deliver packages, food and other goods to customers. This role involves long hours, lifting heavy packages and working in all weather conditions. With the rise of e-commerce and food delivery services, demand has increased but please keep in mind that visa sponsorship is limited.
7. Cleaner
Cleaners work in homes, offices, hotels and hospitals to keep spaces clean and hygienic. No formal qualifications are required but attention to detail and reliability are important here. Also, some cleaning companies might sponsor workers if they can’t find local staff, especially in healthcare cleaning. Although the pay is often minimum wage, you’d still have a stable job and you can even earn higher through night shifts.
8. Meat Processor/Factory Worker
Meat processing factories need workers for cutting, packaging and sorting meat. The work can be repetitive, physically demanding and even stressful, especially in cold conditions. While visa sponsorship isn’t common, occasional opportunities may arise when local worker supply is short, especially in food production sectors.
9. Fishery Worker
Fishery workers sort, process and package seafood. These jobs are physically demanding and often involve long hours in cold and wet conditions. Some UK seafood processing companies have hired foreign workers when labour shortages occur. Although not the most glamorous job, it can be an option for those looking to work in the UK’s food production industry.
How to Apply for a UK Work Visa for Unskilled Jobs
1. First, find an employer who will sponsor your visa. So search job boards, contact recruitment agencies or UK companies directly. Before you even start looking, make sure the employer you’re interested in is a licensed sponsor with the UK Home Office. Just so you know, without that sponsorship you won’t be able to apply for the visa.
2. Next, as soon as you get a job offer, you’ll need to confirm that your employer is ready to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Please know this document is officially required for your application and it should have details about your role, such as your job title, salary and how long your employment would last for. The CoS also comes with a unique reference number you’ll need to complete your visa application. Just make sure you double check all the details match your job offer because errors can cause delays or even lead to your visa being rejected.
3. Once you have your CoS, you can now apply on the UK government’s website. You’ll need to fill in personal details and enter your CoS reference number. You’ll also need to show proof of funds to show you can support yourself, a valid passport and any additional documents required for your nationality. Make sure you check your application before submitting to avoid mistakes that can slow down the whole process.
4. Also, as part of your application you’ll need to pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This IHS lets you access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) while you’re living and working in the country. Please note visa fees vary depending on the type and duration of your visa so just check the UK Home Office website for the latest fees. You’ll need to pay all fees at the time of application to avoid delays.
5. After you’ve submitted your application, you’ll need to wait for the UK Home Office to process it. This usually takes 3-8 weeks but could be longer. You may also be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documents if needed. If your application is approved, yay, you’ll get a visa to enter and work in the UK. If it’s denied you’ll be told the reasons and if you can appeal or reapply.
Websites to find Unskilled Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Indeed
- Jooble
- Glassdoor
- Reed
- Fasthire
- ZipRecruiter
- Career Jet
Tips on How to Get an Unskilled Job in UK with Visa Sponsorship
1. Research visa options so you can weigh your options and see what is suitable for you.
2. Find a licensed employer by the UK Home Office to sponsor unskilled workers for a visa.
3. Before you apply for a visa, gather all your documents, passport, Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), proof of funds and English language test results if required.
4. Apply early and check for any deadlines related to your job role, especially for Seasonal Worker Visas.
5. Check for open roles using job portals like Indeed, Reed, Glassdoor and others to find unskilled jobs in the UK that might offer visa sponsorship.
6. Look into different industries and be adaptable to different job settings.
Frequently Asked Questions for Unskilled Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship for Nigerians in 2025
1. Is there an unskilled work visa in the UK?
The UK doesn’t offer a general visa for unskilled workers. But, there is an option for temporary employment in agriculture and poultry farming through the Seasonal Worker Visa. That visa lasts up to six months and needs a UK employer to sponsor you. Also, it doesn’t lead to permanent residency or allow your dependents to come with you.
2. Can unskilled workers migrate to the UK?
We won’t sugarcoat things here, migrating to the UK as an unskilled worker is tough. This is because most work visas demand specific skills or qualifications. The Seasonal Worker Visa is one of the few employment-based routes available. Let’s not forget to mention that family visas or asylum are other options, but they’re not employment-based.
Conclusion
In reality, getting an unskilled job in the UK with a visa sponsorship is very challenging in 2025. But that’s not to say you shouldn’t pursue your dreams. If you research your options carefully, find a licensed employer and get your documents in order, you might increase your chances of success. We also recommend you being very flexible about where you’re willing to work and what job you’ll take. In the long run, this can help a lot so you don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
