15,000 Construction Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship for Nigerians

Why consider the UK for construction work

The UK government has set ambitious housing targets and continues to invest in infrastructure. This has increased the need for site workers and qualified trades. Employers that are licensed to sponsor visas are recruiting internationally to meet skills gaps. Successful applicants earn in pounds and can build a career in a regulated environment with defined safety standards.

In-demand roles that may offer sponsorship

• Bricklayer: consistent demand on residential and commercial projects. Strong prospects for workers with proven speed and accuracy.
• Carpenter or Joiner: framing, fitting, and repairs for housing and commercial interiors. Employers value precision and site safety awareness.
• Plumber: installation and maintenance of water, heating, and sanitation systems. City and regional projects recruit throughout the year.
• Electrician: electrical installation, testing, and maintenance. Roles often pay above average for trades and may include additional training.
• General Labourer: entry point for candidates without formal qualifications. Typical duties include site preparation, moving materials, and assisting trades.

Basic requirements for visa-sponsored roles

1. Relevant experience: hands-on site experience improves your chances. References and records of past work can help.
2. English language ability: proof may be requested through IELTS or an equivalent qualification.
3. Offer from a licensed sponsor: the employer must be on the UK government register of licensed sponsors.
4. Certification and site readiness: a CSCS card is preferred for many roles. Safety awareness and PPE readiness are valued.

How the Skilled Worker visa process typically works

1. Secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
2. Receive your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
3. Apply online for the Skilled Worker visa
4. Attend biometrics at a Visa Application Centre
5. Receive a decision and travel to start work

Where Nigerians can find verified openings

• Government register: UK Register of Licensed Sponsors for workers
• Job boards and recruiters: Indeed UK, Totaljobs, CV-Library, Hays, Build Recruitment

Use filters such as full-time, permanent roles, and include terms like “visa sponsorship” or “Skilled Worker”.

Typical pay ranges

Entry roles often begin around £12,000 to £15,000 per year, which is roughly $15,000 and above. Earnings may increase with overtime and progression.

Planning your relocation costs

• Visa application fee: commonly £610 to £1,408 depending on duration and role type
• Immigration Health Surcharge: about £624 per year
• Flights: many candidates budget between $500 and $1,500
• Accommodation deposit: one to two months of rent in advance is common, often £700 to £1,500 by city

Some employers offer short-term accommodation or partial reimbursement. Confirm details in writing before you accept an offer.

Recognised employers and agencies

Large infrastructure companies, national contractors, and specialist recruitment agencies regularly hire internationally. Ask each contact to confirm sponsor licence status, pay rate, shifts, and location before applying.

Working and living conditions

Visa sponsored workers receive written contracts, paid holiday, and safety protections under UK law. Employers typically provide PPE and job specific training. Overtime and weekend rates are common on major projects.

Common locations include London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and Glasgow, where Nigerian communities and support networks are well established.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my family? Yes. The Skilled Worker visa allows dependants such as a spouse and children. They can live and study in the UK.

Do I need experience? Entry level labour roles may accept candidates without formal qualifications. Skilled trades require stronger evidence of experience or certification.

Are these roles permanent? Many contracts last one to five years. After five years on eligible visas, some workers may qualify to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

How often will I be paid? Weekly or biweekly payments are common and go directly into a UK bank account.

Is £12,000 to £15,000 enough? It depends on location and support. Accommodation help and overtime can improve your monthly position. £12,000 to £15,000 is roughly $15,000 and above, which helps you compare across currencies.

A straightforward success example

A Nigerian site assistant secured sponsored work in Birmingham, started with supervised labour tasks, and used the first year to complete safety courses and a CSCS card. By year two, performance led to a trade support role with a higher rate. With experience and references, the worker progressed to a supervisory role and moved family over on dependant visas.