International applicants and Right to Work
At UEL, you’ll be part of a truly global and vibrant community. Our staff and students come from over 120 countries, with more than 4,000 international students choosing to study with us. This diversity shapes everything we do, bringing fresh perspectives, enriching learning, and creating a dynamic environment for everyone who works and studies here.
We know that choosing to work overseas is a big step. That’s why we’re here to support you every step of the way, giving you the information and confidence you need to make the right decision.
Explore what it’s like to work with us:
- Working here – discover the range of support and rewards available to our staff, and learn more about our culture.
- Why join us – learn about the University of East London, our Values and our Vision 2028 Strategy.
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Frequently asked questions
- I am not a British/EEA national. Can I still apply for your advertised vacancies?
Yes, you can apply for our vacancies regardless of nationality. The University of East London is a licensed A-rated sponsor under the UK’s Skilled Worker visa route.
Where a role is eligible for sponsorship, this will be clearly stated in the job advert. If a role is not eligible for sponsorship, you must already have the right to work in the UK in order to be considered.
All offers of employment are subject to you demonstrating your right to work in the UK.
- I am not a British/EEA national but have permission to work in the UK for my current job. Can I still apply for any advertised vacancies?
Yes, you may apply for advertised vacancies, provided your current visa allows you to change employment.
When applying, please consider the following:
- Check your visa conditions: Ensure your current visa does not restrict you from switching employers and that you have sufficient time remaining on your permission.
- Proving your right to work: You will be required to provide a valid share code via the UK government online service (eVisa or Biometric Residence Permit) so we can verify your right to work.
- Sponsored workers: If your visa is tied to your current employer, you will need to obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship from UEL before starting employment.
- Role eligibility: Any new role must meet relevant visa requirements, including salary thresholds under the Skilled Worker route where applicable.
For further guidance, please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration.
If you hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status, you have an unrestricted right to work in the UK.
- I am a non British/EEA national student currently studying in the UK. Can I take up employment with UEL?
Yes, international students may apply for roles at UEL, subject to the conditions of their visa.
- During term time, students are typically permitted to work up to 20 hours per week.
- During official vacation periods, full-time work is usually permitted.
You must ensure that any work undertaken complies with your visa restrictions. For full-time or permanent roles, you would normally need to switch to an appropriate work visa (such as the Skilled Worker visa) before starting employment.
- I am applying from outside of the UK. What will happen if I am invited for interview?
If you are shortlisted and based outside the UK, interviews are typically conducted remotely via video conferencing.
If you are successful:
- You will need to obtain the appropriate visa and right to work in the UK before starting employment.
- Where applicable, UEL will provide sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route (this will be confirmed in the job advert).
Further guidance and support will be provided during the recruitment process where relevant.