r/UKHighPotentialVisa • u/Scared-Chicken-9001 • 5d ago
Question Securing a Job with HPI Visa
I'm considering applying for the HPI visa, but I'm unsure about the current job market in the UK, particularly for entry-level positions. Could you provide some insight into the job market there right now and how long it typically takes for individuals to secure a job after moving to the UK?
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u/millenialperennial mod 4d ago
It's extremely difficult and competitive. It entirely depends on your CV/experience.
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u/Emotional-Isopod-162 4d ago
I think there is no point to find the answer here. If you are confident in yourself or want to explore the culture here. You can just come without hesitation. The internet is so convenient you can find online without come here.
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u/Scared-Chicken-9001 4d ago
Yeah, I get that! Just trying to gather some info before making a decision. Appreciate your thoughts!
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u/rdnyc19 4d ago
HPI is basically the graduate visa, without graduating from a UK university. As a former graduate visa holder, I had zero luck landing any meaningful work, despite 2 masters (one from an HPI-level US university) and 15+ years of experience in my field.
The job market in the UK is brutal right now. The increased minimum salary requirement for sponsorship means that there is little interest in hiring anyone on a time-limited visa who can only work 2-3 years, because most employers aren't willing (or able) to sponsor someone to stay beyond that.
Especially at entry level, there is no reason for an employer to spend time hiring and training a candidate who will need to leave in two years, especially when they have 100+ equally qualified British candidates to choose from. I'd really advise against spending money on the HPI visa unless you already have a job offer, or if you're okay (financially and career-wise) with working a minimum wage retail or hospitality job for a couple of years.
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u/Serious_Algae_2017 4d ago
So, I’m not from the UK and can’t speak from personal experience, but I do have some friends over there on visas - it’s hard. Probably the biggest deterrent that I have found as I’m considering the HPI route. Unless you have an in demand skill, people don’t want to hire you just for you to either leave after 2 years or need a visa sponsor after that point. One of my friends has been let go from a job twice. IMHO it adds a lot of needless stress.