If you’ve been searching for UK construction jobs with visa sponsorship in 2025, you’re in the right place. The UK construction industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors, with billions of pounds invested in housing, transport, and infrastructure projects.
But here’s the catch: The UK doesn’t have enough skilled workers to keep up with demand. That’s why top UK construction companies are turning to foreign professionals and tradespeople—and they’re offering visa sponsorship opportunities through the Skilled Worker Visa program.
Why UK Construction Companies Need Foreign Workers in 2025
The UK faces a critical labor shortage in construction. Industry experts predict that by 2027, the UK will need over 200,000 additional construction workers to meet demand.
Here’s why:
- Large-scale projects: HS2 high-speed rail, airport expansions, renewable energy plants.
- Housing crisis: Government targets require 300,000 new homes annually, and the workforce is not sufficient.
- Retirement wave: Many older construction workers are leaving the industry.
The Skilled Worker Visa route allows UK companies to fill this gap by hiring qualified foreign workers.
Top UK Construction Companies Sponsoring Foreign Workers (2025 List)
Here are seven leading construction companies that have been actively hiring foreign workers with visa sponsorship:
1. Balfour Beatty
- Specialty: Infrastructure, highways, rail, energy projects.
- Popular Roles: Civil engineers, project managers, welders, safety officers.
- Salary Range: £30,000 – £65,000.
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes. Licensed under the Skilled Worker Visa program.
Pro tip: Balfour Beatty often lists sponsorship jobs on their careers portal. Search specifically for “international applicants” or “Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship.
2. Laing O’Rourke
- Specialty: High-rise buildings, commercial construction, smart technology projects.
- Popular Roles: Structural engineers, crane operators, electricians, site supervisors.
- Salary Range: £28,000 – £70,000.
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, especially for technical positions
Tip for applicants: Highlight international certifications like NEBOSH (safety) or CSCS cards—they increase your sponsorship chances.
3. Kier Group
- Specialty: Housing, education facilities, transport.
- Popular Roles: Site engineers, plumbers, carpenters, CAD technicians.
- Salary Range: £27,000 – £60,000.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for shortage roles.
Why apply here? Kier Group partners with government housing projects, meaning long-term job stability.
4. Skanska UK
- Specialty: Green construction, bridges, highways, hospitals.
- Popular Roles: Environmental engineers, planners, mechanical technicians.
- Salary Range: £32,000 – £75,000.
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, often for sustainability-focused roles.
5. Costain Group
- Specialty: Smart construction and infrastructure.
- Popular Roles: BIM specialists, design engineers, project managers.
- Salary Range: £33,000 – £70,000.
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, for skilled applicants.
6. Morgan Sindall
- Specialty: Public housing and commercial buildings.
- Popular Roles: Bricklayers, carpenters, safety officers, supervisors.
- Salary Range: £25,000 – £55,000.
- Visa Sponsorship: Provided in shortage roles.
7. Mace Group
- Specialty: Global consultancy + construction management.
- Popular Roles: Architects, project planners, senior engineers.
- Salary Range: £35,000 – £80,000.
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, especially for high-level roles.
Types of Construction Jobs in the UK for Foreign Workers
The UK government’s Shortage Occupation List includes several construction roles, which makes visa sponsorship easier and cheaper.
High-Demand Construction Roles:
- Civil Engineers
- Structural Engineers
- Bricklayers & Masons
- Welders
- Quantity Surveyors
- Pipefitters
- Electricians & Plumbers
- Construction Managers
These roles qualify for lower visa application fees and faster approvals.
Salary Expectations in UK Construction (2025)
Here’s a salary guide for foreign workers in UK construction:
| Job Role | Average Salary (£) | Equivalent (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineer | £38,000 – £65,000 | $48,000 – $82,000 |
| Quantity Surveyor | £35,000 – £60,000 | $44,000 – $76,000 |
| Bricklayer | £27,000 – £40,000 | $34,000 – $50,000 |
| Electrician | £30,000 – £45,000 | $38,000 – $57,000 |
| Welder | £28,000 – £42,000 | $35,000 – $53,000 |
| Construction Manager | £45,000 – £80,000 | $57,000 – $101,000 |
Salaries are typically higher in London and South-East England due to living costs.
How to Apply for UK Construction Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
Step-by-step process to land a job:
- Search job portals: Use Indeed UK, Reed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Filter by “visa sponsorship.”
- Check government’s sponsor list: The UK Home Office publishes a list of licensed visa sponsors.
- Prepare a UK-style CV: Emphasize relevant skills, certifications, and international projects.
- Apply directly to employers: Many companies prefer direct applications via their careers page.
- Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Needed to apply for your visa.
- Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa.
UK Skilled Worker Visa – Construction Pathway (2025 Rules)
- Visa Type: Skilled Worker Visa.
- Minimum Salary Threshold: £23,040 (or £20,960 for shortage roles).
- English Requirement: IELTS or equivalent.
- Length: Up to 5 years (renewable).
- Permanent Residency: Eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
FAQs About UK Construction Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
1. Can unskilled workers get construction jobs in the UK with sponsorship?
Generally, no. The Skilled Worker Visa is for skilled roles only. However, some companies recruit semi-skilled trades if the job is on the shortage list.
2. Which UK visa is best for construction jobs?
The Skilled Worker Visa (formerly Tier 2) is the best route for construction professionals.
3. Do I need experience to get sponsorship?
Yes. UK companies prefer at least 2–3 years of relevant experience. Certifications (CSCS card, NEBOSH, etc.) boost your chances.
4. How much does it cost to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa?
- Application Fee: £719 – £1,500 (depending on duration).
- Healthcare Surcharge: ~£624/year.
- Often, employers cover part of the cost.
5. Can I bring my family?
Yes. Skilled Worker Visa holders can bring dependents (spouse + children).
Final Thoughts
The UK construction industry is wide open to foreign talent in 2025. With major employers like Balfour Beatty, Skanska, and Laing O’Rourke sponsoring visas, international workers have more opportunities than ever before.
If you’re a civil engineer, welder, electrician, or surveyor, this is the right time to apply. With competitive salaries (£25,000 – £80,000) and a clear Skilled Worker Visa pathway, the UK offers long-term career security in construction.
Start applying today via job portals or company career websites. Your next big construction opportunity in the UK might just be one application away.
