London is one of the world’s largest financial centres, and audit firms, banks, insurers and large corporates regularly sponsor qualified accountants, auditors, financial analysts and risk professionals.
Pay
Newly qualified chartered accountants often earn about £45,000–£55,000, rising to £60,000–£75,000+ in senior, banking or specialist roles. These levels generally meet the £41,700 Skilled Worker threshold, but the going rate for your specific occupation code must also be met.
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2026 rules in brief: since 22 July 2025, most Skilled Worker jobs must be at graduate level (RQF 6) and pay at least £41,700 a year or the occupation’s “going rate”, whichever is higher. Some roles have lower rates, such as new entrants, Health and Care roles, and jobs on the Temporary Shortage List, which runs until at least the end of 2026. Always check the current figures on GOV.UK before you apply.
Qualifications that help
- ACCA: widely held internationally and well recognised in the UK.
- ICAEW, CIMA or CFA: valued in audit, management accounting and investment roles respectively.
- Home-country chartered status (for example ICAN in Nigeria). Some bodies have mutual-recognition or exemption agreements, so check with ICAEW or ACCA.
In-demand areas
External audit (especially financial services), regulatory reporting, risk and compliance, tax technology and financial systems (SAP, Oracle, Power BI).
How to apply
- Target firms on the Register of Licensed Sponsors. Most large audit firms and banks are on it.
- Apply to experienced-hire roles on company careers pages. Graduate schemes are more competitive for overseas candidates.
- Quantify your achievements, for example portfolio size, number of audits, or savings delivered.
Frequently asked questions
Is ACCA enough without a UK degree?
Often yes. Many employers value professional qualifications as much as degrees.
Are bookkeeping roles sponsorable?
Usually not after 2025, as most are below RQF 6 and below the salary threshold.
Which cities beyond London hire?
Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Bristol all have large finance employers.
Information checked in October 2026. Immigration rules change often, so always confirm the latest requirements on the official government website before applying or paying any fees.
