The UK job market in 2025 continues to draw global professionals, especially those seeking most in demand jobs in UK, whether in healthcare, tech, finance, engineering, or education.
Jobs in UK for Indians remain especially attractive due to government-sponsored visa routes and shortage-occupation priorities.
However, new immigration reforms are reshaping eligibility: from July 22, 2025, Skilled Worker visas require degree-level (RQF 6) qualifications, while many mid-level roles must now appear on the Temporary Shortage List to qualify for sponsorship.
Despite tightening rules, opportunities remain strong for high-demand roles, such as software developers, AI specialists, nurses, and engineers, making it essential for applicants to target sectors with genuine skill shortages in the UK.
Planning to upskill or move to the UK for better opportunities? Knowing the most in-demand jobs can guide smarter career choices. Also, consider the cost of living in the UK, as it impacts salaries, job selection, and lifestyle.
What are the most in demand jobs in the UK in 2025?
The most in demand jobs in UK in 2025 are strongly influenced by evolving industries, immigration policy changes, and the UK’s shortage occupation needs.
Employers are prioritizing professionals in healthcare, technology, engineering, and education, as these fields face consistent skill gaps.
For jobs in UK for Indians, targeting these sectors offers better visa approval chances and stronger career growth opportunities.
Which sectors currently have the highest job openings in the UK?
In 2025, several industries show a significant rise in hiring:
Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, care assistants.
Technology: Software developers, data scientists, AI/ML experts.
Engineering: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers.
Finance: Accountants, auditors, and financial analysts.
Education: Teachers in STEM and language subjects.
These fields remain attractive because employers actively sponsor Skilled Worker visas, particularly for shortage-list roles.
Secondary school teachers in maths, science, and IT.
Civil engineers for large infrastructure projects.
These professions are officially listed on the UK Temporary Shortage List, making them high-priority jobs for visa applicants, especially for Indian professionals aiming to work in the UK.
Which healthcare jobs are in shortage in the UK?
Healthcare is one of the most critical sectors experiencing shortages in the UK. The most in-demand jobs in UK healthcare include nurses, care workers, doctors, and paramedics.
With an aging population and rising demand for medical services, hospitals and care homes face staffing gaps. These roles are also part of the UK’s shortage occupation list, making them easier for international applicants, including Indians, to secure visas.
As of 2025, employers are actively recruiting overseas professionals to bridge these gaps.
Why are nurses and care workers urgently needed in the UK?
Nurses and care workers are in high demand in UK healthcare because of:
Aging population requiring long-term care.
NHS staff shortages, especially after the pandemic.
High turnover rates in care homes and hospitals.
Increased demand for community and elderly care.
For Indian professionals, these roles provide one of the fastest routes to the UK Skilled Worker visa, as employers are prioritizing international recruitment to fill immediate needs.
Nurses withIELTS/OETcertification and care workers with relevant experience are particularly valued. The UK government continues to relax hiring rules to attract more overseas staff.
Are doctors and medical specialists included in shortage roles?
Yes, doctors and medical specialists are also on the UK’s shortage occupation list. Roles facing the greatest demand include:
General practitioners (GPs)
Psychiatrists
Radiologists
Emergency medicine doctors
These positions are difficult to fill locally because training takes years, and many UK-trained doctors move abroad for better opportunities.
For Indians seeking jobs in UK healthcare, these specialist roles are attractive since they offer higher salaries, visa sponsorship, and faster approval.
Which IT and tech jobs are highly demanded in the UK?
The digital economy in the UK is expanding rapidly, making IT and tech roles among the most in-demand jobs in the UK. Software development, data scienceroles, AI, and cybersecurity roles are at the top of hiring lists.
Companies across the public and private sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, and government, are building out their tech teams to support digital transformation.
For Indians looking to secure jobs in the UK, IT is the easiest sector to access due to the skills shortage and visa sponsorship opportunities that will open up in 2025.
What software and data roles are most sought after?
Employers in the UK are actively hiring professionals for:
Software developers (Java, Python, C#, Full Stack)
These jobs are in demand because UK companies are focusing on digital-first services, big data analytics, and cloud migration.
For Indians, these roles are attractive as they offer competitive salaries, permanent residency pathways, and are frequently included in the UK’s Skilled Worker visa sponsorship list.
Are AI and cybersecurity experts in short supply in the UK?
Yes, both AI specialists and cybersecurity professionals are in serious shortage. Employers are struggling to fill these roles due to the advanced expertise required.
Key shortage areas include:
AI & Machine Learning engineers – powering automation, healthcare tech, and fintech.
Cloud security experts – safeguarding sensitive data in cloud systems.
In 2025, the UK government identified cybersecurity as a critical shortage occupation, opening more opportunities for international candidates, including Indians.
AI roles are also booming as startups and established firms adopt automation at scale, making this one of the best-paying sectors.
Are teaching jobs among the most in demand in the UK?
Yes, teaching jobs are among the most in demand jobs in UK in 2025. The country is facing a shortage of qualified teachers, especially in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
Schools in England, Scotland, and Wales are actively hiring both local and international teachers to fill the gap. This demand makes jobs in UK for Indians highly accessible in the education sector, provided candidates meet eligibility and language requirements.
Which teaching roles are most needed in UK schools?
The UK government has identified several teaching positions as shortage occupations. The most needed include:
Mathematics teachers
Physics and Chemistry teachers
Computer science teachers
Special education needs (SEN) teachers
These roles are in shortage because fewer graduates are entering the teaching profession, while student enrollment continues to rise.
Teachers in these areas are offered attractive pay packages, relocation support, and visa sponsorship, making them excellent opportunities for skilled foreign educators.
Can foreign teachers apply for shortage teaching jobs in the UK?
Yes, foreign teachers, including Indian teachers, can apply for shortage subject roles under the UK’s Skilled Worker visa route. Applicants usually need:
A recognized teaching qualification (B.Ed., M.Ed., or equivalent).
Proficiency in English (IELTS/UKVI-approved tests if required).
A confirmed job offer from a licensed UK school or employer.
Since shortage teaching roles are on the official UK Shortage Occupation List, foreign teachers benefit from lower visa fees and faster application processing.
In 2025, the UK has also launched targeted recruitment drives in countries like India to address the growing demand.
Which finance and accounting jobs are on demand in the UK?
In 2025, finance and accounting jobs in the UK are seeing strong demand, especially in London, Manchester, and other financial hubs.
With businesses expanding post-Brexit and global investments rising, roles in financial analysis, risk management, auditing, and accounting are highly sought after.
Employers are also looking for professionals with international expertise, making these among the most in demand jobs in UK for Indians and other foreign workers.
What finance roles are included in shortage occupations?
While not all finance roles are officially on the UK Shortage Occupation List, certain positions remain critically in demand due to a talent gap. These include:
Financial analysts – for business forecasting and investment insights
Risk and compliance managers – ensuring regulatory adherence
Investment bankers – particularly in London’s financial sector
Auditors – required across both public and private firms
The demand is driven by stricter financial regulations, digital transformation in banking, and a growing need for transparency.
Employers often prefer candidates with international experience, making it a good opportunity for finance professionals from India to build careers in the UK.
Do accounting jobs in the UK require special certifications?
Yes, most accounting jobs in the UK require recognized professional certifications. Some of the key ones include:
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)
ACA/ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales)
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) for investment-related roles
For Indian accountants, additional UK-recognized certifications may be required to qualify for higher-paying roles.
What engineering jobs are most needed in the UK?
In 2025, engineering jobs in the UK remain among the most in-demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects, renewable energy expansion, and advancements in manufacturing.
Roles in civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering are highly sought after, with the UK government actively encouraging skilled migrants to fill gaps.
Many engineering roles are also listed on the UK Shortage Occupation List, making it easier for international candidates, including Indians, to apply for jobs with visa sponsorship.
H3: Which engineering fields face the highest demand?
The UK has a strong need for engineers across multiple specializations. Some of the most in-demand engineering fields in 2025 include:
Civil engineers – required for large-scale infrastructure, rail, and housing projects
Mechanical engineers – needed in manufacturing, automotive, and renewable energy sectors
Electrical engineers – supporting power systems, telecom, and smart technologies
Software and systems engineers – vital for digital transformation in industries
Chemical engineers – in demand for pharmaceuticals, food production, and energy industries
This demand is largely due to skill shortages in the local workforce and the UK’s heavy reliance on foreign-trained engineers.
Do engineering jobs in the UK offer visa sponsorship?
Yes, many engineering jobs in the UK offer visa sponsorship, especially those included in the Shortage Occupation List. Employers are actively hiring international engineers to address critical skill gaps.
Engineering Role
Visa Sponsorship Availability
Demand Level
Civil Engineers
High – listed on shortage list
Very High
Mechanical Engineers
Medium to High
High
Electrical Engineers
High – shortage occupation
Very High
Software/Systems Engineers
High – tech sector priority
Very High
Chemical Engineers
Medium – depends on industry
Moderate
Foreign engineers with recognized qualifications and relevant work experience are more likely to secure sponsorships, especially in large engineering consultancies, construction firms, and energy companies.
What are the salaries for high-demand jobs in the UK?
In the UK, compensation structures for high-demand jobs vary widely based on the sector, demand, level of experience, and area.
For 2025, roles in the healthcare sector, IT, engineering, and finance are among the most competitive package offerings, especially in shortage occupations.
As skills gaps are growing, many companies are increasing salaries to attract overseas talent - they are looking for Indians who want to work in the UK with visa sponsorship.
Which in-demand roles pay the highest in the UK?
The following roles will always have some of the highest paying in-demand jobs in the UK due to critical shortages in many areas:
Doctors and medical specialists - othen earning £60,000 - £100,000 + per annum
Software engineers and data scientists - £45,000 - £85,000 mean total compensation
Financial analysts and accountants - £40,000 - £70,000
Engineering managers and senior engineers - £50,000 - £90,000
Cybersecurity professionals - £50,000 - £95,000
This may not only be some of the highest salaries in the UK, but most likely some of the highest paying roles that offer visa sponsorship.
What is the average salary for shortage jobs?
On average, jobs listed in the UK Shortage Occupation List tend to pay slightly higher than standard market rates. Below is a quick snapshot of average salaries in shortage occupations in 2025:
Job Role
Average Annual Salary (£)
Average Annual Salary (₹)
Nurses and Care Workers
£28,000 – £40,000
₹29.6 Lakh – ₹42.4 Lakh
Secondary School Teachers
£32,000 – £45,000
₹33.9 Lakh – ₹47.7 Lakh
Civil & Mechanical Engineers
£40,000 – £65,000
₹42.4 Lakh – ₹68.9 Lakh
Software Developers
£45,000 – £70,000
₹47.7 Lakh – ₹74.2 Lakh
Cybersecurity Specialists
£55,000 – £95,000
₹58.3 Lakh – ₹100.7 Lakh
These figures show why shortage jobs in the UK remain attractive for foreign workers, especially Indian professionals aiming for better pay and career growth.
Which in demand jobs can international students apply for in the UK?
International students can have access to part-time jobs while studying and full-time jobs after graduation in the UK.
Many in-demand occupations in the UK - including healthcare, Information Technology (IT), teaching, and engineering also apply for international graduates, making this easier for international graduates to gain long term career opportunities.
The UK Graduate Route allows two (and three for PhD's) years of post-graduation leave and enables international students to access shortage occupations that have good career prospects and leads to visa sponsorship.
International students are able to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during scheduled breaks. Examples of common part-time jobs include:
Retail assistants and cashiers
Hospitality jobs (barista, waiter, fast-food worker)
Teaching assistants or private tutors
Campus jobs such as library or research assistance
Delivery, catering and customer service
Although part-time jobs may not be shortage supply, they can assist with living expenses, obtain work experience and transferable skills.
Preparing international students for full-time employment in the UK for Indians and other international graduates post-studies.
Do in-demand roles provide post-study work opportunities?
Yes, many shortage occupations in the UK are open to graduates under the post-study work (PSW) visa. Sectors like healthcare, IT, engineering, and teaching actively recruit international students who complete relevant degrees. For example:
Nursing & healthcare graduates can move directly into shortage NHS roles.
Computer science and AI graduates can apply for tech jobs with high visa sponsorship rates.
Engineering and teaching graduates are eligible for long-term roles with high demand.
This pathway ensures that international students can transition from part-time work into high-demand professions, making the UK one of the most attractive destinations for career-driven students.
What future job trends are expected in the UK market?
The UK job market is evolving quickly, driven by technology, healthcare needs, and education reforms.
By 2030, many jobs in the UK for Indians and international workers will come from sectors like healthcare, IT, green energy, and digital finance.
The UK government’s focus on innovation and sustainability suggests strong growth in high-tech roles and shortage occupations, making it crucial for professionals to upskill and adapt to these trends.
Which roles will be in demand over the next 5 years?
Over the next five years, most in demand jobs in the UK will likely fall under technology, healthcare, and engineering. Key roles include:
Healthcare workers – nurses, care staff, and medical specialists.
Tech experts – software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity analysts.
Green energy specialists – renewable energy engineers and sustainability managers.
Teachers – especially in STEM subjects.
Financial analysts and accountants – with digital finance expertise.
These roles are projected to remain on the UK Shortage Occupation List, ensuring visa sponsorship opportunities for foreign professionals.
Is AI reshaping the demand for UK jobs?
Yes, AI is reshaping UK jobs by creating new opportunities while reducing demand for repetitive roles. The biggest impact is seen in:
High demand roles: AI engineers, machine learning experts, and data analysts.
Transformed roles: finance, healthcare, and education are adopting AI, requiring professionals with digital and analytical skills.
Declining roles: routine admin and clerical jobs are being automated.
For Indians and other international job seekers, this shift means focusing on AI-driven sectors like data science, cybersecurity, and automation.
Future Job Outlook in the UK (2025–2030)
Sector / Job Role
Projected Growth (2025–2030)
Key Drivers
Healthcare (Nurses, Care Workers, Doctors)
20% – 25%
Ageing population, NHS staff shortage
IT & Tech (Software, AI, Data, Cybersecurity)
30% – 35%
Digital transformation, AI adoption
Green Energy (Renewable Engineers, Sustainability Experts)
25% – 30%
UK Net Zero 2050 goals, climate policies
Teaching (STEM, Special Education)
15% – 20%
Shortage of qualified teachers, education reforms
Finance & Accounting (FinTech, Digital Finance)
10% – 15%
Growth in FinTech, AI-based financial services
Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
18% – 22%
Infrastructure projects, renewable energy expansion
This table highlights how most in demand jobs in the UK are shifting towards healthcare, technology, and green energy, while still maintaining strong demand in teaching, finance, and engineering.
Conclusion
The most in demand jobs in UK in 2025 clearly span across healthcare, IT, teaching, finance, and engineering. With skill shortages continuing in these areas, the UK job market offers promising opportunities for skilled professionals and international graduates.
For Indians, exploring jobs in UK for Indians across high-growth sectors like nursing, cybersecurity, and engineering can open doors to better salaries, career stability, and visa sponsorship.
Looking ahead, future trends in AI, green energy, and digital finance will further shape demand, making the UK a top destination for those seeking rewarding global careers.
How do Indians find the most in demand jobs in UK in 2025?
Indians can explore the UK shortage occupation list, job portals, and official UK government websites. Many employers sponsor skilled workers in healthcare, IT, and engineering, making it easier to secure jobs in UK for Indians.
Do UK employers provide visa sponsorship for shortage jobs?
Yes, many employers in healthcare, IT, and engineering actively provide visa sponsorship for shortage jobs in the UK. Applicants must meet skill requirements and secure a Certificate of Sponsorship from the hiring company.
Are fresh graduates eligible for in demand jobs in UK?
Fresh graduates can apply for entry-level roles in sectors like IT, teaching, and healthcare. While experience improves chances, the UK post-study work visa allows international students to transition into shortage occupations after graduation.
Which UK job portals list high demand roles for Indians?
Popular job portals like Indeed, Reed, NHS Jobs, and LinkedIn list high demand roles. Indians seeking jobs in UK can also check the official UK government site for updated shortage occupation lists and visa-sponsored roles.
What qualifications are required for high-demand jobs in the UK?
Qualifications depend on the role. For healthcare jobs, nursing or medical degrees are needed, while IT roles often require software or cybersecurity certifications. Engineering and finance positions may require chartered status or relevant professional accreditation.
Can Indians apply for UK shortage jobs without prior experience?
While prior experience is preferred, some UK shortage jobs allow skilled freshers to apply. For example, junior software developers or trainee healthcare assistants may get opportunities, especially if they hold recognized degrees or certifications.
Do UK shortage jobs guarantee permanent residency pathways?
Shortage jobs often make it easier to qualify for permanent residency in the UK. Healthcare professionals, engineers, and IT experts working in high-demand sectors can apply for settlement after meeting work and stay requirements.
How competitive are in demand jobs in UK for Indians?
Competition varies by role. Healthcare and teaching jobs face less competition due to urgent shortages, while IT and finance roles attract global applicants. Indians with the right qualifications and English proficiency stand strong chances.
Which UK regions offer the most opportunities for shortage jobs?
While London has the highest demand in IT and finance, regions like Manchester, Birmingham, and Scotland show strong demand in healthcare, teaching, and engineering. Shortage jobs are spread across the UK, not just in major cities.
What role does English proficiency play in securing jobs in UK for Indians?
Strong English proficiency is essential for all shortage jobs in the UK. Employers and visa processes often require IELTS or equivalent test scores, especially in healthcare, teaching, and customer-facing IT or finance roles.
Are remote or hybrid roles available in high demand UK jobs?
Yes, IT and finance sectors in the UK increasingly offer hybrid and remote roles. However, healthcare, teaching, and engineering jobs require on-site presence. Indians can explore flexible opportunities depending on the field of expertise.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2862 articles published
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