Why Construction Jobs Are Always in Demand
The construction industry is always booming! Whether it’s new buildings going up or existing structures being maintained, there’s always a need for skilled workers like carpenters and joiners. Because of this, demand for these roles remains high, making it a great career choice.
The UK’s Demand for Carpenters and Joiners
The UK government has identified a shortage of skilled construction workers, including carpenters and joiners. To fill this gap, companies have been approved to sponsor foreign workers who meet the necessary qualifications. If you’re considering moving to the UK for this opportunity, here’s everything you need to know!
UK Companies Hiring Carpenters with Visa Sponsorship
Several UK companies have been approved to hire skilled foreign workers with visa sponsorship. Here are some you can consider:
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Kier Group
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Balfour Beatty
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Wates Group
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Laing O’Rourke
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ISG
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Morgan Sindall
Recruitment Agencies for Carpentry Jobs in the UK
If you’re having trouble securing a job directly, recruitment agencies can help by submitting your CV and guiding you through the process. Some trusted agencies include:
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Randstad CPE
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Hays Construction
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Fusion People
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Daniel Owen Ltd
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Balfour Beatty
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Wates Group
Top Construction & Carpentry Firms Offering Visa Sponsorship
If you’re looking for specific companies that sponsor visas, consider these options:
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John Perkins Construction – Specializes in luxury home projects.
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Kier Group – Hires site carpenters for infrastructure projects.
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Balfour Beatty – Recruits skilled tradesmen for major projects.
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Laing O’Rourke – Offers high-end project opportunities.
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Morgan Sindall – Specializes in heritage carpentry and new builds.
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Benchmark Doors & Joinery – Hires factory-based joiners (some visa sponsorship available).
Salary Expectations for Carpenters in the UK
As a carpenter in the UK, you can expect to earn £23,000 and above per year, depending on your experience, employer, and location.
Requirements to Work as a Carpenter in the UK
To be eligible for carpentry and joinery jobs in the UK, you’ll need to meet these requirements:
Education & Training
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NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Carpentry & Joinery (preferred).
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City & Guilds or similar certification.
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Apprenticeship experience is highly valued.
Work Experience
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At least 2 years of professional experience (required for visa sponsorship).
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Experience in site carpentry, shopfitting, or joinery workshops.
Technical Skills
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Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
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Proficiency in using hand tools and power tools (e.g., saws, drills, planers).
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Knowledge of wood types, joints, and finishing techniques.
Soft Skills
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Strong attention to detail.
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Physical stamina for manual labor.
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Problem-solving skills for on-site adjustments.
Required Certifications for Carpentry Jobs in the UK
For long-term employment in the UK, the following certifications may be required:
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CSCS Card (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) – Mandatory for construction sites.
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IPAF/PASMA Certification – If working at heights or using scaffolding.
Visa Requirements for Carpenters and Joiners in the UK
To work in the UK as a carpenter or joiner, you’ll need a Skilled Worker Visa, which requires:
✅ Job Offer – From a UK employer with a Sponsorship License.
✅ Salary Requirement – At least £23,200 per year (industry standard is usually £25,000–£35,000).
✅ Skill Level – Carpentry is categorized as RQF Level 3 (Skilled Worker Eligible).
✅ Financial Proof – You must show £1,270 in savings for your first month in the UK.
✅ English Proficiency – You need to pass an A2 level English test.
✅ Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) – Provided by your employer.
Documents Required for a UK Work Visa
When applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you’ll need:
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✅ Valid international passport
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✅ Proof of qualifications (certificates, diplomas, trade test results)
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✅ English language test results
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✅ Bank statements or financial evidence (only required if your employer doesn’t cover initial costs)
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✅ Proof of work experience (reference letters, if required)
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✅ Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from your employer
Where to Find Carpenter & Joiner Jobs in the UK
You can search for available jobs on these platforms:
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Indeed UK – Filter results by “Visa Sponsorship”
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Reed
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Totaljobs
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CV-Library
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UK Construction Job Board
Simply search these websites on Google, browse relevant job postings, and start applying!
How to Apply for Carpenter & Joiner Jobs in the UK
✅ Step 1: Find a Job Vacancy
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Use the companies, recruitment agencies, and job boards mentioned above.
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Read the job description carefully to ensure it includes visa sponsorship.
✅ Step 2: Prepare Your Application
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Scan and upload required documents (passport, qualifications, etc.).
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Update your CV – Include your email & Skype ID for easy contact.
✅ Step 3: Attend Interviews
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Monitor your email and Skype for interview invitations.
Once you receive a job offer, your employer will sponsor your visa, and you can begin the process of moving to the UK!
If you still wish to find more UK-approved Visa sponsors, visit the UK Spnsors License register website here.