Travel and work in England

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If you are planning to travel and work in England you will discover the country has a dynamic job market that caters to a wide range of industries. From the financial powerhouse of London to the creative hubs of Manchester and Bristol, opportunities abound in sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and the arts.

Working holiday opportunities abound in the hospitality industry, retail, or seasonal events, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, meet people from all walks of life, and experience the dynamic energy of city and country living.

The Home Office is curbing illegal employment by requiring employers to see documentary proof of your status. Employers found employing people illegally will be liable for huge fines per employee.

Commonwealth nationals can claim a personal allowance and foreign nationals can claim a personal allowance if you have been in the country for at least 183 days in any tax year.

Always keep tax documents such as the P60, and when you finish working send both parts of your P45 to your employer’s tax office. When you are ready to leave the UK, complete form P85, a leaving certificate that asks your intentions about returning to the UK to work.

United Kingdom working holiday visa

Also know as the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, it helps young travellers from participating countries to come to the United Kingdom. With this visa you can work and travel in the UK for up to one year!

The United Kingdom has made Working Holiday Visa agreements with the following participating countries:

If granted the working holiday visa allows you to:

• Work in England on a short term basis
• Enter the UK at any time while your visa is valid
• Exit the country and return at any time during the validity of your visa
• Study – for some courses you’ll need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate

As of January 2021, EU citizens are subject to the UK’s new immigration system, which treats them similarly to non-EU citizens. This means that EU citizens who want to work in the UK generally need to apply for a work visa or have another form of legal permission to work.

Work in England’s agriculture sector

England’s diverse topography ensures a rich array of agricultural landscapes. From the green pastures of the Cotswolds to the vast fields of East Anglia, the sector caters to a variety of farming practices.

Working in England provides individuals with the chance to engage in the cultivation of crops, livestock management, and specialised activities like dairy farming or vineyard operations.

England’s agricultural calendar is marked by distinct seasons, each presenting unique opportunities. From planting and harvesting crops to tending to livestock, individuals working in the agriculture sector experience the cyclical nature of farming.

English farms are often deeply connected to their local communities. Working in the agriculture sector involves more than just tending to crops and livestock; it’s about being an integral part of a community.

Work in England’s tourism industry

At the forefront of England’s tourism industry are the individuals working in hotels, bed and breakfasts, and other accommodations. Whether serving as concierges, housekeepers, or front-of-house staff, these roles contribute to the overall guest experience, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

You will find there are regular vacancies for hotel work in London throughout the year. However, in a seaside resort hotel, you may find the opportunities are limited outside of the holiday season.

You may stand a better chance of employment if you are available for the whole season from April to October instead of the peak months of July and August.

It’s worth remembering that some hotels may provide you with accommodation allowing you to save money to continue your travels.

Anyone with a qualification in yachting, climbing, swimming, canoeing, etc. should be able to find employment as an instructor throughout the summer months. Applicants will be asked to provide police clearance forms if the work involves working with children.

Work in England as an au pair or nanny

Anyone seeking entry into England as an au pair or nanny has to show documents at entry proving that they have an arrangement with a family or agency. Changing your status after entry as a visitor is not permitted. The maximum stay is two years and its possible to change families during this period.

Working as an au pair or nanny in England goes beyond the conventional employer-employee relationship. Au pairs often become integral members of the host family, participating in daily life, sharing meals, and joining family outings. This familial connection fosters a supportive environment for both the caregiver and the children under your care.

Living with an English family provides au pairs and nannies with a unique opportunity for cultural immersion. Engaging in daily routines, celebrations, and local traditions allows individuals to gain insights into English culture.

Additionally, working closely with native speakers facilitates language learning, contributing to a more profound understanding of the language and its nuances.