Are you dreaming related duty in the busy United Kingdom hospitality industry? Moving to the United Kingdom for a job can feel hard, especially when it comes to getting a visa. But with the right information, a waiter job in the UK with visa sponsorship in 2025 is possible.
This simple guide will define the process in very easy words — from learn visa rules to getting your dream duty.
The Truth About UK Visa Sponsorship for Waiters
The UK immigration system is made to bring skilled workers into the country. The main visa for foreign workers is the Skilled Worker visa.
The problem for waiters is that the official occupation code for this job is usually not considered “skilled” enough for the normal Skilled Worker visa.
However, there is an important exception — the Immigration Salary List (ISL).
- This list replaced the old Shortage Occupation List.
- Jobs on this list have a lower salary requirement for the Skilled Worker visa.
- Most regular waiter jobs are not on the ISL.
- But some special jobs in hospitality, like fine dining service staff or F&B (Food & Beverage) assistants in luxury hotels, may be included under a different job code that is eligible.
That means you should seek for duties in best-end restaurants, fine dining, or luxury hotels. These all duties have a good opportunities of being on the eligible list.
Main Requirements for a UK Work Visa in 2025
If you want to get a United Kingdom duty visa in 2025, you must meet these all rules:
- Sponsorship License – The employer must have a license from the United Kingdom Home Office to sponsor foreign helpers. If they don’t, you cannot apply for the Skilled Duty visa.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – After you get the duty, the employer gives you this certificate. It is a special number you need to apply for your visa.
- Minimum Salary –
- In 2025, the normal Skilled Worker visa salary requirement is £41,700 per year or the “going rate” for the job — whichever is higher.
- If your job is on the Immigration Salary List (ISL), the minimum is £33,400 per year.
- English Language – You must prove you can speak, read, and write English. Usually, you do this by passing an English test called a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
- Money and Health –
- You must show you have enough savings to support yourself, unless your employer confirms they will cover your first costs (up to £1,270).
- You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) so you can use the NHS (National Health Service).
- Some people must also take a Tuberculosis (TB) test before applying.
Finding the Right Employer
The first step is to find companies that have a sponsorship license.
- The UK Home Office has a public list of these companies.
- Look for businesses in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, or big catering companies. They are more likely to have sponsorship licenses.
When applying for a job:
- Make your CV (Curriculum Vitae) clear and simple.
- Show your skills like good customer service, food and drink knowledge, and working in busy places.
- Write a cover letter explaining why you are perfect for the job.
- Change your CV and cover letter for each job you apply for — make it match what they want.
Tip: Duty sites like Indeed or Caterer.com are best, but you will have a better opportunity if you contact industries directly.
Step-by-Step Process to Get the Job and Visa
- Research Employers – Check the Home Office list for sponsor-licensed industries.
- Find Skilled Roles – Apply for waiter worker or F&B assistant duties in fine dining, luxury hotels, or similar.
- Interview – If selected, you will have an test, often online. Be ready to talk related your duty experience, your skills, and your learn of United Kingdom hospitality.
- Get Your CoS – If you get the duty, the employer will give you the Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Apply for Visa – Fill out the online visa application, payment the visa fee, payment the Immigration Health Surcharge, and send your important documents.
- Biometrics Appointment – Go to a visa application center to give your fingerprints and photo.
- Wait for a Decision – If approved, you can travel to the United Kingdom and start your duty.
Common Questions
Can any waiter job get me a visa?
No. Most normal waiter jobs do not qualify. Aim for specialized jobs like head waiter or fine dining waiter in luxury places.
How much must I earn?
For the normal Skilled Worker visa: at least £41,700 per year.
For jobs on the Immigration Salary List: at least £33,400 per year.
What if I don’t have savings?
If your employer says they will pay your first living costs (up to £1,270) on your CoS, you do not need to show your savings.
Why This Guide is Different
Most guides just say “get a waiter job and apply for a visa” without details. This guide gives you a clear plan:
- Explains the Immigration Salary List and why it matters for waiters.
- Gives a step-by-step process from job search to visa application.
- Shows how to find the right type of employer.
Final Tips for Success
- Focus on fine dining, luxury hotels, and large catering companies.
- Learn about UK customer service standards before your interview.
- Practice English speaking to pass the test and impress employers.
- Keep checking the Home Office list — it changes often.
Conclusion:
Getting a waiter job in the UK with visa sponsorship in 2025 is not easy, but it is possible if you target the right jobs, find licensed employers, and meet the visa rules. With the right preparation, you can start your career in the UK hospitality industry and enjoy a new life in one of the world’s most exciting countries.