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If you’re a qualified truck or HGV driver looking to earn a better income and relocate to a top-tier country, the United Kingdom is hiring — and fast.
In 2025, UK logistics companies are struggling with a critical shortage of drivers, and many are turning to international workers to fill the gap.
And here’s the best part: UK employers are offering full visa sponsorship and salaries of £18–£22 per hour — even higher for night shifts and long-haul jobs.
Why the UK Is Hiring Foreign Truck Drivers in 2025
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The UK has been facing a severe HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) driver shortage for several years, especially after:
- Brexit, which reduced the EU driver pool
- An aging workforce and early retirements
- Delays in domestic driver training and testing
As of 2025, the shortage is estimated at over 60,000 drivers, according to industry reports.
To address this, the UK Government has:
- Added HGV drivers to the Skilled Worker Visa list
- Allowed overseas applicants to apply if they meet requirements
- Encouraged licensed UK employers to sponsor international drivers
This makes 2025 a perfect time to apply if you’ve got experience driving large vehicles or trailers.
Job Description: UK Truck Driver Roles
Truck driver jobs in the UK (under the Skilled Worker Visa) typically include:
🔹 Job Titles:
- HGV Class 1 Driver
- HGV Class 2 Driver
- LGV Driver (Large Goods Vehicle)
- Lorry Driver
- Long-haul Truck Driver
- Multi-drop Delivery Driver
🔹 Responsibilities:
- Operating large trucks or lorries for local or long-distance deliveries
- Loading and unloading cargo
- Completing logbooks and paperwork
- Ensuring vehicle safety and compliance
- Communicating with dispatchers and clients
🚨 You must drive safely, follow UK traffic laws, and be comfortable with long hours on the road.
How Much Do UK Truck Drivers Earn in 2025?
Here’s what you can expect to earn:
| Job Type | Hourly Rate (£) | Annual Estimate (£) |
| Entry-Level (Class 2) | £13 – £16/hr | £27,000 – £33,000 |
| Class 1 Driver | £17 – £22/hr | £35,000 – £46,000 |
| Night Shift / Weekends | £20 – £25/hr | £42,000 – £52,000+ |
| Owner Operator | Varies | £50,000+ |
🤑 Many companies also offer:
- Sign-on bonuses (£1,000+)
- Paid accommodation (first few months)
- Free training upgrades (if needed)
Do UK Truck Driving Jobs Offer Visa Sponsorship?
Yes — but only through licensed UK employers.
Truck driving is now listed under the Skilled Worker Visa program, meaning:
- Employers can legally sponsor foreign drivers
- You can apply from overseas
- You can bring your spouse and children with you
Visa Requirements for Truck Drivers
To qualify for visa sponsorship, you must meet the UK Government’s Skilled Worker Visa criteria:
✅ What You Need:
- Valid job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer
- An HGV license equivalent to UK standards (see below)
- English language proficiency (IELTS UKVI – minimum Band 4.0)
- Clean criminal record
- Health clearance (TB test if required)
- Proof of savings (unless the employer certifies maintenance)
📌 Important: Your driving license must be valid for UK conversion or recognition. Some countries (e.g., Nigeria, India, Kenya, Philippines) may require extra training or testing in the UK.
How to Apply for UK Truck Driver Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Here’s a step-by-step plan:
✅ Step 1: Check if You’re Eligible
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Driving experience: 1–2+ years preferred
- Must hold a Category C or C+E license (or international equivalent)
If your country doesn’t use UK categories, look up how to convert your HGV license once in the UK.
✅ Step 2: Search for Jobs with Sponsorship
Use UK job boards and search terms like:
- “HGV driver visa sponsorship”
- “Class 1 driver with COS”
- “Truck driver UK skilled worker visa”
🧰 Best Job Boards:
✅ Step 3: Apply to Licensed Employers
Apply only to companies that are licensed sponsors. Some examples (as of 2025):
- Wincanton
- DHL Supply Chain UK
- XPO Logistics
- Royal Mail Group
- GXO
- DPD UK
💡 Pro tip: Send a UK-style CV tailored to truck driving and mention your visa status clearly.
✅ Step 4: Receive Job Offer + Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once selected, the company will issue your Certificate of Sponsorship — a crucial step in the visa process.
✅ Step 5: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
Apply online via the UKVI portal. Prepare:
- CoS reference number
- Proof of English
- Passport
- Tuberculosis test (if required)
- Criminal background check
- Financial documents
✅ Step 6: Get Approved & Relocate
The visa typically takes 3–4 weeks to process. Once approved:
- You’ll receive a vignette sticker in your passport
- You’ll have 30 days to enter the UK
- Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) after arrival
Can You Bring Your Family?
Yes — your visa allows you to sponsor your dependents:
- Spouse or partner
- Children under 18
- Children over 18 (if already in the UK as dependents)
They’ll be able to live, study, and work in the UK.
🎉 Many employers also assist with family relocation support.
What If You Don’t Have an HGV License Yet?
Some UK employers offer training programs for:
- Overseas drivers with basic driving experience
- Candidates willing to upgrade from smaller licenses
In some cases:
- You enter the UK on a Health and Care Worker Visa or Student Visa
- Train for HGV in the UK
- Then switch visas once qualified
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Can I really get a truck driving job in the UK from abroad?
Yes — if you have a valid driving license, some experience, and meet the visa criteria. Many employers actively sponsor foreign drivers due to shortages.
❓ Do I need IELTS to be a truck driver in the UK?
Yes — you’ll need to pass an IELTS UKVI (General) test with at least Band 4.0.
❓ What countries are eligible?
All countries are technically eligible, including:
- Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, Pakistan, Philippines, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Jamaica, and more.
As long as you meet the requirements and can secure a job offer.
❓ What if I fail the UK driving test?
You may be required to retake parts of the HGV test once in the UK — especially if your home country’s license isn’t directly transferrable.
Are you ready to Apply for a UK Truck Driving Job?
2025 is your year to make the move.
With shortages driving up salaries, and visa sponsorship more accessible than ever, this could be your ticket to a better life in the UK.