Fully Funded UK Visa Sponsorship Jobs and Scholarship Options You Can Apply for Now

The United Kingdom offers a wealth of fully funded visa-sponsored jobs and scholarships for international applicants from countries like Nigeria, India, and Brazil, targeting high-demand fields like technology, healthcare, and education.

With salaries ranging from £25,600 to £120,000 annually and scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and visa fees, top employers like the NHS, Microsoft, and universities like Oxford are ready to welcome talent.

This comprehensive guide dives into the best fully funded visa-sponsored jobs, scholarship programs, eligibility requirements, application steps, and practical tips to help you seize these life-changing opportunities now.

Why the UK Needs International Talent in 2025

The UK, with its £2.7 trillion economy, is a global hub for innovation, healthcare, and education. However, post-Brexit labor shortages and an aging workforce have led to over 1 million job vacancies, particularly in technology (100,000 openings), healthcare (150,000 openings), and education (50,000 openings).

Similarly, UK universities, hosting 600,000+ international students annually, contribute £20 billion to the economy through tuition and research. To meet these demands, the UK offers fully funded visa-sponsored jobs via the Skilled Worker Visa and scholarships with Tier 4 (General Student) Visa sponsorship, attracting professionals and students from countries like India, Nigeria, and Brazil.

For international applicants, these opportunities provide competitive salaries, world-class education, free NHS healthcare, and a pathway to permanent residency. Whether you’re a software developer, nurse, or aspiring PhD researcher, the UK’s multicultural cities, rich history, and high quality of life make it an ideal destination to build your future.

Understanding Fully Funded UK Visa Sponsorship

Skilled Worker Visa for Jobs

The Skilled Worker Visa allows international professionals to work for Home Office-approved employers in shortage occupations. Employers provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a digital document confirming your job offer. Key features include:

• Duration: Up to 5 years, extendable, with a path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
• Cost: £610–£1,408 application fee + £624/year Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), often employer-covered.
• Work Rights: Full-time employment with the sponsoring employer, with flexibility to change jobs (with a new CoS).
• Eligibility: Job offer in a shortage occupation, minimum salary (£25,600 or industry standard), and English proficiency.
• Pathway: ILR after 5 years, British citizenship after 6 years.

Fully funded jobs often include visa fee coverage, relocation support (£1,000–£15,000), and signing bonuses, making the transition seamless.

Tier 4 (General Student) Visa for Scholarships

The Tier 4 Visa allows international students to study full-time at Home Office-approved institutions (Designated Learning Institutions or DLIs). Universities issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the visa application. Key features include:

• Duration: Course length + 4–7 months, with a Graduate Visa (2–3 years) for post-study work.
• Cost: £363 application fee + £624/year IHS, often scholarship-covered.
• Work Rights: Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays.
• Eligibility: Admission to a DLI, English proficiency, and financial proof (waived for fully funded scholarships).
• Pathway: Graduate Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, then ILR after 5 years of work.

Fully funded scholarships cover tuition (£15,000–£40,000/year), living expenses (£1,200–£2,000/month), flights, and visa fees, removing financial barriers.

Why Employers and Universities Offer Sponsorship

Employers like Google, NHS, and Rolls-Royce sponsor professionals to fill critical skill gaps, drive innovation, and stay competitive. Sponsorship benefits include accessing global talent, boosting productivity, and supporting diversity. Universities offer scholarships to attract brilliant minds, enhance research, and maintain global rankings. For applicants, sponsorship means job security, financial support, and a chance to experience the UK’s vibrant culture, from London’s bustling streets to Edinburgh’s historic charm.

Top Fully Funded Visa-Sponsored Jobs in 2025

Below are high-paying jobs offering Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship, with salary benchmarks and top employers.

Technology Sector

1. Software Engineer

• Description: Builds applications, cloud platforms, or AI systems for tech giants or startups.
• Salary: £50,000–£100,000/year (£24–£48/hour).
• Skills: Python, Java, JavaScript, AWS, Azure.
• Sponsorship: CoS via Skilled Worker Visa or Global Talent Visa, often with relocation support (£5,000–£15,000).
• Top Employers:
  • Google UK (London, Cambridge): Offers CoS, signing bonuses, and housing assistance.
  • Microsoft UK (London, Reading): Sponsors via Skilled Worker Visa, with professional development programs.
  • ASOS (London): Sponsors e-commerce developers, offering relocation support.

2. Data Scientist

• Description: Analyzes data for business insights, using machine learning and analytics.
• Salary: £60,000–£120,000/year (£29–£58/hour).
• Skills: R, Python, SQL, TensorFlow, PyTorch.
• Sponsorship: Skilled Worker Visa, with relocation packages (£5,000–£10,000).
• Top Employers:
  • Amazon UK (London, Cambridge): Sponsors via Skilled Worker Visa, with comprehensive support.
  • DeepMind (London): Sponsors AI-focused data scientists, offering bonuses.

3. Cybersecurity Specialist

• Description: Protects systems from cyber threats, ensuring data security.
• Salary: £60,000–£120,000/year (£29–£58/hour).
• Skills: Ethical hacking, CISSP certification, network security.
• Sponsorship: Skilled Worker Visa, with relocation grants (£2,000–£8,000).
• Top Employers:
  • BT Group (London, Bristol): Sponsors cybersecurity experts, with training.
  • Darktrace (Cambridge): Sponsors via Skilled Worker Visa, offering professional growth.

Healthcare Sector

4. Registered Nurse

• Description: Provides patient care in hospitals, clinics, or care homes.
• Salary: £25,600–£38,000/year (£12–£18/hour).
• Skills: NMC registration, patient care, critical care certification.
• Sponsorship: Skilled Worker Visa (shortage occupation), with relocation support (£2,000–£10,000).
• Top Employers:
  • National Health Service (NHS) (Nationwide): Sponsors nurses, covering visa fees and offering housing grants.
  • Bupa (London, Leeds): Sponsors via Skilled Worker Visa, with relocation assistance.

5. Physician

• Description: Diagnoses and treats patients in specialties like family medicine or surgery.
• Salary: £40,000–£100,000/year (£19–£48/hour; specialists up to £150,000).
• Skills: GMC registration, medical licensure, patient management.
• Sponsorship: Skilled Worker Visa, with relocation support (£2,000–£10,000).
• Top Employers:
  • NHS (London, Manchester): Sponsors physicians, offering training and bonuses.
  • HCA Healthcare UK (London): Sponsors specialists, with comprehensive support.

6. Pharmacist

• Description: Dispenses medications and advises on therapies.
• Salary: £35,000–£55,000/year (£17–£26/hour).
• Skills: GPhC registration, patient counseling.
• Sponsorship: Skilled Worker Visa (shortage occupation), with relocation grants (£1,000–£5,000).
• Top Employers:
  • Boots (Nationwide): Sponsors pharmacists, covering visa costs.
  • LloydsPharmacy (London, Birmingham): Sponsors via Skilled Worker Visa, offering bonuses.

Education Sector

7. Teacher (STEM, English, Humanities)

• Description: Teaches in schools or colleges, focusing on high-demand subjects.
• Salary: £25,600–£45,000/year (£12–£22/hour).
• Skills: PGCE, teaching certification, subject expertise.
• Sponsorship: Skilled Worker Visa, with relocation support (£1,000–£5,000).
• Top Employers:
  • Teach First (Nationwide): Sponsors teachers in disadvantaged schools, offering training.
  • Academies Enterprise Trust (London, Birmingham): Sponsors STEM teachers, with relocation grants.

8. University Lecturer

• Description: Teaches and conducts research at universities.
• Salary: £40,000–£65,000/year (£19–£31/hour).
• Skills: PhD (preferred), teaching experience, research publications.
• Sponsorship: Skilled Worker Visa, with research funding support.
• Top Employers:
  • University College London (UCL): Sponsors lecturers, offering relocation support.
  • University of Manchester: Sponsors via Skilled Worker Visa, with academic grants.

Top Fully Funded Scholarship Programs with Tier 4 Visa Sponsorship

Below are the best fully funded scholarships offering Tier 4 visa sponsorship for international students in 2025.

1. Chevening Scholarships

• Purpose: Funds one-year master’s degrees for future leaders from 160+ countries.
• Funding: Full tuition (£15,000–£40,000), living stipend (£18,000/year), flights, visa fees, health insurance.
• Eligibility:
  • Bachelor’s degree (2:1 or equivalent).
  • 2+ years of work experience (professional or volunteer).
  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 79+).
  • Leadership potential and commitment to return home for 2 years post-study.
• Visa Support: Tier 4 visa sponsorship via university CAS.
• Fields: Business, engineering, public health, international relations.
• Why Apply?: Prestigious program with global networking opportunities.
• Application Window: August–November 2025 (apply at Chevening.org).

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

• Purpose: Supports master’s or PhD students from Commonwealth countries (e.g., Nigeria, India).
• Funding: Full tuition, living expenses (£1,200–£1,500/month), flights, visa fees, research costs.
• Eligibility:
  • Commonwealth citizen or refugee.
  • Strong academic record (GPA 3.0+ or 60%+).
  • Financial need and university admission.
  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+).
• Visa Support: Tier 4 visa sponsorship via university CAS.
• Fields: Development studies, STEM, social sciences.
• Why Apply?: Focuses on students from developing nations.
• Application Window: October–December 2025 (apply via CSCUK.dfid.gov.uk).

3. UKRI Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP)

• Purpose: Funds PhD students in science, engineering, or humanities.
• Funding: £16,000–£20,000/year for 3–4 years, plus tuition and research costs.
• Eligibility:
  • Enrolled in a PhD at a UK university.
  • Strong research proposal (1,000–2,000 words).
  • Academic excellence (first-class or 2:1 degree).
• Visa Support: Tier 4 visa sponsorship via university CAS.
• Fields: AI, biotechnology, environmental science.
• Why Apply?: Supports cutting-edge research.
• Application Window: Varies by university (check UKRI.org or university websites).

4. GREAT Scholarships

• Purpose: Funds postgraduate studies for students from 14 countries (e.g., Brazil, China).
• Funding: £10,000–£20,000 for tuition, plus living support in some cases.
• Eligibility:
  • Citizen of an eligible country.
  • Admission to a participating university.
  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+).
• Visa Support: Tier 4 visa sponsorship via university CAS.
• Fields: Engineering, business, law, arts.
• Why Apply?: Accessible funding for diverse fields.
• Application Window: January–May 2025 (apply via British Council or university portals).

5. University-Specific Scholarships

• Purpose: Covers tuition and living costs at top universities.
• Funding: £5,000–£50,000/year, often full tuition and stipends.
• Eligibility:
  • Admission to a Home Office-approved university.
  • Academic excellence (GPA 3.0+).
  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+).
• Visa Support: Tier 4 visa sponsorship via university CAS.
• Examples:
  • Oxford Clarendon Fund: £15,000–£20,000/year for graduates.
  • Cambridge Gates Scholarships: £18,000–£40,000/year for master’s/PhD.
  • UCL Global Scholarships: £10,000–£20,000 for undergraduates/postgraduates.
• Why Apply?: Reduces high tuition costs at world-class institutions.
• Application Window: Varies (check university websites, e.g., Oxford.ac.uk, UCL.ac.uk).

Eligibility Criteria for Jobs and Scholarships

Skilled Worker Visa

• Job Offer: From a Home Office-approved employer with a CoS.
• Eligible Occupation: Role on the Shortage Occupation List or with a Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code (e.g., nurse: 2231, software engineer: 2135).
• Minimum Salary: £25,600/year or industry standard.
• English Proficiency: B1 level (IELTS 4.0+ or equivalent).
• Education/Experience: Degree or vocational qualification (e.g., nursing diploma, IT certification) and 1–3 years of experience (preferred).
• Financial Proof: £1,270 for 28 days, often waived with a job offer.
• Health and Character: Clean criminal record, TB test for countries like Nigeria or India (£50–£100).

Tier 4 Visa

• Education: Admission to a full-time program at a DLI.
• Academic Performance: Strong grades (GPA 3.0+ or 2:1 degree).
• English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 79+.
• Financial Proof: £1,334/month (London) or £1,023/month (elsewhere) for 9 months, waived for fully funded scholarships.
• Health and Character: Clean criminal record, TB test for certain countries.

A strong application package includes:

• CV or personal statement highlighting qualifications, experience, or academic achievements.
• Recommendation letters (2–3) from employers, professors, or mentors.
• Academic transcripts or certifications (e.g., NMC registration, AWS certification).
• English proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL).
• Research proposal (for PhD scholarships).

Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Jobs and Scholarships

For Visa-Sponsored Jobs

Step 1: Identify High-Demand Roles and Regions

Focus on shortage occupations like software engineering, nursing, or teaching. Target high-demand regions:

• London: Tech, healthcare, finance.
• Manchester: Healthcare, education.
• Birmingham: Healthcare, engineering.
• Edinburgh: Education, finance.

Check the UK Shortage Occupation List on Gov.uk.

Step 2: Research Sponsoring Employers

Target employers like Google, NHS, or UCL. Check career pages for “Skilled Worker Visa” roles. Use:

• Gov.uk: Lists licensed sponsors (30,000+ employers).
• NHS Jobs: Healthcare roles with sponsorship.
• LinkedIn/Indeed UK: Search for “visa sponsorship” jobs.

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

Create a CV highlighting:

• Qualifications (e.g., computer science degree, nursing license).
• Experience (1–3 years).
• Skills (e.g., coding, patient care, teaching).
  Write a cover letter emphasizing your fit and visa needs.

Step 4: Gain Certifications

Boost your chances with:

• Technology: AWS, Azure, CISSP certifications.
• Healthcare: NMC/GMC registration, nursing diploma.
• Education: PGCE, teaching certifications.
  Learn English (B1 level) via IELTS (£150–£200).

Step 5: Apply for Jobs

Apply through employer websites, NHS Jobs, or LinkedIn. Mention visa sponsorship needs.

Step 6: Secure a Job Offer and CoS

Obtain a job contract and CoS, detailing your role and salary.

Step 7: Apply for Skilled Worker Visa

Submit via UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI):

• Provide CoS, passport, financial proof, TB test (if required), and IELTS.
• Pay £610–£1,408 + £624/year IHS.
• Book biometrics appointment.
• Processing: 3–8 weeks (priority: £500–£1,000 extra).

For Scholarships with Tier 4 Visa

Step 1: Choose Your Program

Select a program at a DLI:

• Undergraduate: Computer science, medicine, education.
• Master’s: Data science, public health, education.
• PhD: AI, biotechnology, social sciences.

Use UCAS (undergraduate) or university websites (postgraduate).

Step 2: Research Scholarships

Explore Chevening, Commonwealth, or university scholarships. Check British Council or university portals for deadlines (e.g., Chevening: November 2025).

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

Gather:

• Academic transcripts.
• CV highlighting achievements and experience.
• Personal statement (500–1,000 words) on academic goals and UK choice.
• Recommendation letters (2–3).
• IELTS/TOEFL scores.
• Research proposal (for PhD).

Step 4: Apply for Admission and Scholarships

• Undergraduate: Apply via UCAS (January deadline).
• Postgraduate: Apply via university portals (December–March).
  Submit scholarship applications separately if required.

Step 5: Secure CAS

After admission, the university issues a CAS (£21, often scholarship-covered).

Step 6: Apply for Tier 4 Visa

Submit via UKVI:

• Provide CAS, passport, financial proof (if needed), TB test, and IELTS.
• Pay £363 + £624/year IHS.
• Book biometrics.
• Processing: 3–8 weeks.

Step 7: Relocate

Use job/scholarship support for flights (£500–£2,000), housing (£500–£2,000/month), or settling-in funds (£500–£2,000).

Challenges of Securing Jobs and Scholarships

• Competition: High demand for jobs and scholarships requires standout applications.
• Language Proficiency: B1 (jobs) or IELTS 6.5+ (scholarships) is mandatory.
• TB Test: Required for countries like Nigeria (£50–£100).
• Cost of Living: London (£1,200–£2,000/month) is expensive, but salaries/scholarships help.
• Visa Delays: Processing can take 8+ weeks if documents are incomplete.

Tips for Success

• Apply Early: Meet job/scholarship deadlines and visa timelines (6–12 months prior).
• Tailor Applications: Customize CVs, cover letters, or personal statements.
• Improve English: Take IELTS/TOEFL early (£150–£200).
• Network: Connect with recruiters, alumni, or professors on LinkedIn or at job fairs (e.g., London Tech Week).
• Target Shortage Roles: Focus on tech, healthcare, or education for jobs.
• Use Resources: Check Gov.uk, UCAS, or British Council for opportunities.
• Hire Experts: Consult immigration advisors (£500–£2,000) for complex cases.

Benefits of UK Jobs and Scholarships

• High Salaries: £25,600–£120,000/year for jobs.
• Funding: £5,000–£50,000/year for scholarships, covering tuition, living costs, and visas.
• Free NHS Healthcare: Saves £100–£500/month.
• Relocation Support: £1,000–£15,000 (jobs), £500–£10,000 (scholarships).
• Permanent Residency: ILR after 5 years (jobs) or via Graduate Visa (scholarships).
• Cultural Immersion: Enjoy UK festivals (e.g., Edinburgh Fringe), cuisine (curry, fish and chips), and landmarks like Stonehenge or Big Ben.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

• Skilled Worker Visa: ILR after 5 years, citizenship after 6 years.
• Tier 4 Visa: Graduate Visa (2–3 years), then Skilled Worker Visa, leading to ILR.
  Dependents join on family visas, with work/study rights.

Living in the UK

Whether working in Manchester’s healthcare sector or studying in Oxford’s historic halls, you’ll enjoy:

• Cultural Immersion: Celebrate Diwali, Christmas, or Notting Hill Carnival, savor diverse cuisines, and visit landmarks like the Lake District.
• Travel: Explore Europe (Paris, Amsterdam) with £20–£100 flights.
• Quality of Life: Safe cities, reliable transit (£100–£200/month), free NHS healthcare.

Top Cities for Jobs and Scholarships

• London: Tech, healthcare, education hub. Living costs: £1,200–£2,000/month.
• Manchester: Healthcare, education, affordable. Living costs: £800–£1,200/month.
• Oxford/Cambridge: Academic centers. Living costs: £900–£1,500/month.
• Edinburgh: Education, cultural hub. Living costs: £900–£1,400/month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Experience for Jobs?

1–3 years preferred; shortage roles accept less.

What Jobs Qualify?

SOC-coded roles (e.g., nurse: 2231, software engineer: 2135).

Can I Bring Family?

Yes, on family visas with work/study rights.

What Are Visa Fees?

Jobs: £610–£1,408 + IHS; Scholarships: £363 + IHS.

What Salaries/Funding Can I Expect?

Jobs: £25,600–£120,000/year; Scholarships: £5,000–£50,000/year.

How Long Can I Stay?

Jobs: 5 years, extendable; Scholarships: Course + 4–7 months, plus Graduate Visa.

Do I Need English Proficiency?

Yes, B1 (jobs) or IELTS 6.5+ (scholarships).

Conclusion: Apply for Your UK Opportunity in 2025

Fully funded UK visa sponsorship jobs and scholarships in 2025 offer international applicants a golden chance to join top employers like Google and NHS or study at world-class universities like Oxford and Cambridge. With high salaries, comprehensive funding, and clear pathways to permanent residency, these opportunities make your UK dreams achievable. Start applying today and join thousands thriving in the UK’s vibrant, multicultural society.

For more information, visit www.gov.uk.