Construction Driver Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship

Are you a skilled HGV driver dreaming of building your career in UK? In 2026, the UK’s construction and logistics sectors face a severe shortage of qualified drivers, creating a golden opportunity for professionals from around the world.

With salaries starting at £20 per hour, visa sponsorship, and accommodation support, construction driver jobs in UK are not just a job; they’re your pathway to financial security, career growth, and realizing your dreams.

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Details of Construction Driver Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship

Key Points

• Job Country: United Kingdom
• Industry: Construction Logistics / HGV Transport
• Job Title: Construction Driver / HGV Driver
• Visa Sponsorship: Yes (Skilled Worker Visa)
• Minimum Experience: 1-2 years professional HGV driving preferred
• Education Required: Basic proficiency in English
• Age Limit: Must be 21+ for most HGV/C+E licences
• Relocation Support: Possible (varies by employer)
• Accommodation: Possibly assisted (varies by employer)
• Expected Salary: £18 – £23 per hour (dependent on license class, experience, and role)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent or Fixed-Term Contract

Read Also: Van Driver Jobs in London with Visa Sponsorship

About the Opportunity

Tony Pestana Construction Ltd, a reputable UK-based construction supplies company, is cited as an example employer actively seeking to bridge the skills gap by recruiting international drivers. Reputable firms across the construction and logistics sectors hold Sponsor Licenses to legally hire non-UK residents who meet the specific skills and visa requirements, offering roles that include full visa sponsorship.

Eligibility & Requirements for Construction Driver Jobs in UK

To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa as an HGV driver, candidates must meet strict criteria set by both the employer and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI):

1. Valid UK HGV Licence: You must hold a valid Category C (Class 2) or preferably Category C+E (Class 1) driving licence. An international licence will require exchanging or obtaining a UK licence.
2. Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC): You must possess a valid UK Driver CPC, obtained by passing four theory tests and one practical case study test.
3. Sponsorship & Skill Level: You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid Sponsor Licence. The role must be listed on the UK’s eligible occupations list.
4. English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate English language ability at a minimum B1 level (intermediate), typically through a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
5. Financial Requirements: You must prove you have enough personal savings to support yourself upon arrival, unless your sponsor certificate covers this.
6. Experience: While entry-level routes exist, most sponsored roles require at least 1-2 years of professional HGV driving experience, with construction logistics experience being highly advantageous.
7. Background Checks: A clean criminal record and passing a UKVI-approved medical examination are mandatory.

Job Responsibilities of Construction Driver in UK

A construction driver’s core duties typically include:

• Safely operating HGV vehicles (rigid or articulated lorries) to transport bulk construction materials, plant machinery, and site equipment.
• Conducting comprehensive vehicle safety checks (daily walkaround checks) and reporting any mechanical faults.
• Ensuring all cargo is securely loaded, unloaded, and transported in compliance with UK road safety and weight regulations (e.g., driver’s hours, tachograph rules).
• Completing all necessary logistics paperwork accurately, including delivery notes, digital tachograph records, and vehicle inspection reports.
• Adhering to strict site safety protocols when entering and exiting construction locations.
• Representing the company professionally in all client and site interactions.

Who Can Apply?

The Skilled Worker Visa is open to applicants from all countries, provided they meet the above requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, candidates from:

• South Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh
• Africa: Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Sudan
• The Americas: Mexico, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago
• Europe & Worldwide: Any nation whose citizens meet the UK visa criteria.

Visa Requirements

Valid Job Offer from a Licensed UK Sponsor
You must have a confirmed employment offer from a UK employer who holds a Home Office sponsor license. Without this, you cannot apply for the visa.

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, an electronic reference with key details about your job and salary. You’ll need this to start your visa application.

Occupation Eligibility
The construction driver role must be listed on the Skilled Worker eligibility list under the correct SOC code for drivers (e.g., HGV/construction driver classification). Some construction‑related driving roles may face stricter skill‑level checks due to recent immigration reforms.

Salary Minimum & Going Rate
You must be paid at least the required minimum salary usually the standard rate (e.g., £41,700/year as a general rule) or the “going rate” for your occupation, whichever is higher. Some exceptions or lower thresholds may apply if the job appears on a shortage list (but these lists are currently limited).

English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate English language ability (commonly CEFR Level B1 or above) through an approved test like IELTS or an equivalent qualification unless you qualify for an exemption.

Proof of Funds (Maintenance Funds)
Unless your employer certifies maintenance on your CoS, you’ll need to prove you have enough personal savings (e.g., £1,270 held for at least 28 days).

Age Requirement
You must be at least 18 years old when applying for the Skilled Worker visa

Criminal Record & Health Checks
You might need to provide a criminal record certificate and undergo medical checks (like a tuberculosis test) if required for your country of residence.

Valid Driving Qualifications
For construction/driver roles, you typically need the relevant UK HGV license (or the ability to convert your existing license) and professional certifications like the Driver CPC where applicable.

Apply Within Timeframe
Once you receive your CoS, you must apply for the visa within the allotted period (usually 3 months from issue of the CoS).

How to Apply for Construction Driver Jobs in UK

1. Secure Your UK Credentials: If you do not have them, focus first on obtaining a UK HGV license and Driver CPC. This is the most critical step.
2. Target Licensed Sponsors: Search for “HGV Driver visa sponsorship” on major UK job boards (Indeed, CV-Library, Totaljobs) and the websites of large construction, logistics, and haulage firms. Verify their sponsor license status.
3. Prepare Your Application: Create a UK-style CV highlighting your HGV experience, license details, CPC number, and safety record.
4. Interview Process: Be prepared for interviews that will assess your driving knowledge, safety awareness, and familiarity with UK regulations.
5. Visa Process: If offered a role, your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). You will then complete the online visa application, pay the associated fees (Immigration Health Surcharge and application fee), and attend a biometric appointment.

Conclusion

The acute shortage of HGV drivers in UK presents a timely and lucrative opportunity for qualified international drivers. Construction driver roles, offering comprehensive packages including visa sponsorship, relocation support, and competitive hourly wages near £20, represent a clear and structured pathway to legal employment and long-term settlement.

For drivers from Asia, Africa, and Latin America who meet the licensing and CPC requirements, this is more than a job it’s a chance to leverage a high-demand skill into a stable and prosperous career in one of the world’s leading economies. By preparing the necessary certifications and applying through reputable agencies, skilled drivers can successfully navigate this in-demand route to working in UK.

Frequently Asked Questions