Nearly one in six people living in England and Wales were non-UK born, with Indians constituting the largest group, as per the UK government’s 2022 data. Also, most UK visas (study, work, and visit) in 2022 were issued to Indians.

So, what's drawing such large chunks to the UK? Cultural ease, top-ranked academic institutions, lower-time-taking degree education, and a fairly affordable application process have made the UK a largely desirable education haven.

The re-introduction of a two-year post-study work visa after 2020 has also added to the appeal. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that skilled worker visas granted to Indians jumped by 63% from 2021 to 2022. However, there are challenges associated with grabbing an employment opportunity in a new country, but do you know that having certain chops will make you a more desirable job-seeker for the UK work visa?

There are numerous jobs in high demand in the UK, which can make it easier to get a visa and start a good life there. As per the ‘Skilled Worker Visa: Shortage Occupations’ list, some of the most in-demand jobs can be seen across healthcare, engineering, technology, education, and business sectors.

Healthcare Heroes:

The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the overwhelming global shortage of skilled healthcare professionals. The UK welcomes qualified nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and care workers under the Skilled Worker visa scheme, offering a clear path to permanent residency.

This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to five years and can be renewed indefinitely. To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, one must have a job offer from a British employer that meets the needed payment threshold. You must also possess the necessary qualifications and experience.

Engineering Expertise:

From traditional roles such as civil and mechanical, electronics, electrical and design and development, the UK's engineering sector is thriving. With a projected growth rate of 2.7% per year until 2027, qualified engineers from India are highly sought-after.

IT Business Analysts, Architects, Systems Designers:

The UK's IT industry is booming, creating a high demand for IT business analysts, architects, engineers, and systems designers. These roles offer promising career prospects, with a projected job growth of 4.2% by 2027, creating over 5,000 new jobs. Moreover, 39.6% of the people in this sector are set to retire, creating 49,600 job opportunities.

Programmers, Software Developmers:

Programmers and software developers are in hot demand, with the sector expecting a 4.2% job growth and 12,500 new positions by 2027. During the same timeframe, 118,900 jobs will open up due to the retiring professionals.

Indian professionals with expertise in software development and design are well-positioned to capitalise on this trend.

Actuaries, Economists, Statisticians:

Actuaries, economists, and statisticians are crucial for businesses and government agencies. These roles require strong analytical and computer skills, and a mathematical background to solve problems, making Indian professionals with relevant qualifications highly competitive. These people play key roles in several industries, including insurance, finance, and government.

According to the National Career Services, this sector is see job growth up to 4.3% by 2027, which is expected to create 1,800 new jobs.

With its welcoming job market and streamlined visa processes, the UK is proving to be a magnet for Indian talent across diverse sectors. From healthcare heroes to tech titans, the opportunities are plentiful for skilled professionals seeking a fulfilling career abroad.