The UK manufacturing sector, which encompasses food processing, automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and sophisticated manufacturing, is consistently confronted with labor shortages, which has led numerous companies to sponsor work visas . Employers in both skilled and semi-skilled positions are actively seeking international talent, providing Skilled Worker Visas that are accompanied by Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).

Job Details:
- Position: Factory Worker
- Location: Various locations across the UK
- Job Type: Full-time
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for qualified candidates
Job Requirements:
Before you start the process of applying for a factory worker job in the UK, you should be aware of the conditions that are to be fulfilled. Though the rules may differ according to the job and the company, several criteria are usually the same:
- The minimum age is 18 years.
- A valid employment visa
- Particularly in positions that necessitate communication and comprehension on the factory floor, proficiency in English is essential.
- Professional qualifications or prior experience in manufacturing or related disciplines may be necessary for certain positions.
Benefits:
- Consistent Income in a Strong Currency (GBP):
The hourly pay for factory tasks typically ranges from £10.50 to £14, depending on the shift type and the employee’s experience. Weekend incentives, overtime, and shift differentials may be applicable. - Public Healthcare (NHS) Accessibility:
After paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), sponsored laborers are eligible to receive complimentary healthcare services from the National Health Service. This encompasses prescriptions, emergency care, and visits to a general practitioner (GP). - Route to Permanent Residency:
You are eligible to petition for the following after five years of holding a Skilled Worker visa: Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Subsequently, British citizenship may be granted upon completion of additional prerequisites. - Family Reunification is permitted:
You are permitted to bring your spouse/partner and children under the same visa route. Additionally, dependents are granted access to healthcare and education. - Employer Assistance for Relocation:
Certain employers in the United Kingdom who operate factories provide: Assistance with relocation Subsidized or complimentary lodging Pickup at the airport Initially, vouchers for food and groceries were issued.
Duties:
The factory worker roles are the set of different responsibilities that are specific to certain industries and the production processes. Typical duties of such a job are:
- The operation of machinery
- Combining the components
- Inspections of quality control
- The final product’s packaging
- Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the workplace.
- The administration of safety protocols and the effective collaboration with colleagues are among the most critical aspects of the position.
Salary:
The salary for factory worker positions in the United Kingdom is contingent upon factors such as the industry sector, location, and level of experience. In general, entry-level positions may pay between £9 and £11 per hour. As employees progress, they may be offered additional positions, which can result in higher compensation. Salaries exceeding £25,000 annually may be awarded to employees who possess exceptional skills or specialized knowledge.The salary for factory worker jobs in the UK is determined by factors such as the level of experience, location, and industry sector. On average, entry-level jobs might pay between £9 to £11 per hour, and with time, new positions will be offered to the employees leading to high salaries. Especially skilled workers or the ones with specialized expertise may get salaries of more than £25,000 a year.
Types of Jobs:
- Machine Operator: The responsibility of machine operators is to oversee and operate the devices that ensure the efficient operation of production processes.
- Assembler: The individual responsible for the assembly of components or elements to produce finished products in accordance with the specifications.
- Quality Inspector: Conducts revisions to ensure that the product quality standards are maintained and identifies any production or manufacturing defects or deviations.
- Packaging Specialist: This role is responsible for the packaging and labeling of finished products in preparation for shipment and distribution.
- Forklift Operator: Additionally, it is responsible for the operation of forklifts and other material handling equipment to facilitate the transportation of materials within the factory.
- Warehouse Associate: Assists in the loading and unloading of products, manages stocks, and organizes stores.
- Production Technician: Assists in the installation, repair, and resolution of production apparatus and equipment.
- Maintenance Worker: Performs routine maintenance tasks and resolves malfunctions to ensure the factory equipment functions efficiently.
- The logistics coordinator is responsible for the management of the inventory, transportation, and planning.
Also Check: Visa Sponsorship Manufacturing Worker Jobs in UK
Application Process:
The method to get factory worker jobs in the UK is not easy and needs a clever and painstaking way to pass the tests.
- Search: Begin by conducting an online employment search through company websites, online job portals, or recruitment agencies that specialize in the manufacturing industry.
- Learning Skills: Acquire the knowledge and accomplishments that are relevant to the position for which you are applying.
- Prepare: Develop a curriculum vitae that includes your certifications and training programs.
- Apply: Submit your application for the position at the organization that aligns with your qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can foreigners get factory worker jobs in the UK in 2025 with visa sponsorship?
Yes, but it’s competitive. The UK Shortage Occupation List does not currently include general factory work, so visa sponsorship is less common unless:
The job is specialized (e.g., food processing, machine operation)
The employer is a licensed sponsor
You are applying through the Skilled Worker visa route, and the job meets salary and skill criteriaAre factory jobs considered “Skilled Worker” jobs in the UK?
Some semi-skilled roles in manufacturing qualify if they meet these conditions:
They appear on the eligible occupations list under SOC codes (e.g., food production operatives, process operatives)
The job pays at least £26,200/year or £10.75/hour (2025 threshold)
Unskilled or low-paid roles are not usually eligible for sponsorship.Which visa is required for factory jobs in the UK?
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route.
Requirements:
A confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor
The job must appear on the eligible occupations list
The job must meet the minimum salary threshold
English language proficiency (at least CEFR level B1)
TB test and police clearance (for some countries)