AdminWorking as a human resources (HR) manager in the UK can be an extremely rewarding career move, even without a university degree under your belt. As an HR manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in overseeing all aspects of a company’s HR operations from recruitment to training, payroll to performance reviews.
The UK is also experiencing a shortage of skilled HR professionals, meaning qualified candidates with the right experience can secure jobs even without a degree. In this guide, we’ll explore the reality of securing HR manager roles in the UK as a non-UK national through employer sponsorship and share where to find suitable openings. Let’s get started!
Employer Sponsorship: Understanding the Tier 2 (General) Visa
Most HR manager roles that are willing to sponsor overseas candidates will do so under the Tier 2 (General) visa. This visa allows experienced foreign professionals to work in the UK, provided they have a job offer from an approved sponsoring employer.
To qualify for a Tier 2 visa without a degree, you’ll need:
1 A job offer from a licensed Tier 2 sponsor
The employer must be approved by the UK Home Office to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) under Tier 2. They’ll need to prove there are no suitably qualified resident workers for the role.
2 Sufficient salary
As an HR manager, your minimum salary would usually be £41,500 per year. The going rate is often higher, depending on the employer and industry.
3 Relevant HR experience
You’ll generally need at least 3-5 years of continuous, full-time HR experience at a manager or senior level. This experience must be documented on your resume and cover areas like recruitment, training, employee relations, etc.
4 English language skills
Your speaking and reading skills in English must meet level B1 or above on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
As long as you meet these essential requirements, you have a strong chance of being considered for HR manager openings with visa sponsorship attached. The employer will handle your entire visa application process if offered the job.
Finding Suitable Job Openings
Now that the basics of qualification for a Tier 2 General visa are clear, let’s look at some top spots to search for openings:
1 Online job boards
Monitor sites like Indeed, Totaljobs, and Reed for listings tagged as eligible for sponsorship. Search keywords like “HR manager,” “people manager,” etc.
2 Company websites
Check the careers pages of large multinationals, as they’re more likely to sponsor visas. Filter for UK locations.
3 Recruitment agencies
Agencies specializing in placing overseas professionals can have suitable roles. Build connections on LinkedIn.
4 Social media
Join UK-based HR groups on LinkedIn and connect with recruiters. Posting about your experience and interest in relocating can yield results.
5 Special programs for skilled immigrants
Look out for recruitment initiatives by organizations like the UK Home Office for in-demand roles.
Keep applications tailored to each job description and be persistent. Visa sponsorship openings are competitive but regularly become available across industries from IT to finance. Stay hopeful!
The Application and Interview Process
Once you’ve found a potential job listing, it’s time to submit your application. Here are some tips for optimizing your chances:
1 Highlight UK-ready qualifications
Emphasize relevant HR skills, experience levels per the criteria, and English language proficiency on your resume and cover letter.
2 Research the company thoroughly
Demonstrate strong knowledge of their business, culture, and industry trends in communication.
3 Customize each application
Tailor resume, cover letter, portfolio projects as needed to precisely match listed requirements. Generic content gets filtered faster.
4 Be completely honest
Disclose all aspects of prior work visas, qualifications, address/education history accurately as per UKVI regulations.
5 Prepare for behavioral interviews
Have stories ready to demonstrate core HR competencies like communication, problem-solving, change leadership, etc.
6 Ask informed questions
Inquire respectfully about visa sponsorship process, expected timelines, relocation packages, etc. to mitigate any uncertainties.
7 Follow up professionally
Thank the interviewer and politely confirm receipt of application and next steps if you do not hear back quickly as per deadlines shared.
With focused preparation, a motivated mindset, and diligent effort to satisfy UK immigration regulations, landing a sponsored HR manager role is definitely within reach without a degree. Employ patience but pursue opportunities actively for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 Do I need to be fluent in other languages?
While not essential, additional languages apart from English could give your candidacy an edge depending on the company and location. Diverse language skills demonstrate versatility.
2 How long will the visa application process take?
Once you receive a job offer, it usually takes around 3 months on average for the employer to obtain a CoS and for you to receive a decision on your Tier 2 visa application from overseas. Proper documentation and prompt responses speed this up.
3 Will relocation costs be covered?
Some larger multinational employers may provide relocation packages covering flights, temporary accommodation, and other allowances. However, be prepared to primarily fund your own relocation as coverage varies significantly between companies.
4 Can I bring my family on a Tier 2 visa?
Yes, if your salary meets the financial requirement, dependents like spouse/partner and children under 18 can apply to join you in the UK under the Tier 2 visa category. Dependent visa processing typically takes 2-3 months after your own visa is approved.
5 What are my options for professional development?
As an HR manager, you’ll have opportunities to network within industry groups and pursue continuing education or certifications like CIPD to advance your skills and career even further over the long run in the UK. Employer support varies.
6 After how long can I apply for permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain)?
If you spend 5 continuous years lawfully employed in the UK under a Tier 2 visa, you can then apply for settlement or permanent residence in the country which gives you the right to live and work in the UK indefinitely without restrictions.
Conclusion
Building an international career in HR management is definitely possible even without a degree when the right opportunity with visa sponsorship arises in a major global business hub like the UK. This guide aimed to provide comprehensive clarity on pursuing sponsored roles, qualifying criteria and requirements, application best practices as well as address common concerns. With diligent planning and effort, your professional dreams of working and living abroad can be realized. I wish you the very best in your endeavor! Do feel free to reach out if any other questions come up.
Admin