In 2025, the demand for unskilled warehouse jobs in the UK and packaging jobs with visa sponsorship is skyrocketing. The UK economy is experiencing rapid growth in logistics, retail, and e-commerce, leading to thousands of vacancies for foreign workers seeking stable income and relocation opportunities.
While these roles are often classified as “unskilled,” they can still provide steady employment, overtime benefits, relocation packages, and annual earnings reaching up to £30,000 per year.
This guide covers everything you need to know about securing warehouse jobs in the UK for foreigners 2025, including visa pathways, expected salaries, job responsibilities, required skills, and step-by-step application processes.
Whether you’re from Africa, Asia, or other parts of the world, this article will help you understand how to successfully relocate and earn a living in the UK through these opportunities.
Why Choose Warehouse and Packaging Jobs in the UK in 2025?
Warehouse and packaging roles may not require advanced degrees or professional certifications, but they remain crucial in the UK’s supply chain. With the rise of e-commerce platforms, supermarkets, and global trade, companies are heavily investing in skilled and semi-skilled manpower. Here’s why these jobs are in high demand in 2025:
- Growing E-commerce Sector: Online shopping in the UK has grown significantly, creating more warehouse and logistics positions.
- Shortage of Local Workers: Many UK citizens prefer other careers, leaving vacancies open for foreign workers.
- Visa Sponsorship Availability: Companies licensed to sponsor workers often extend opportunities to international candidates.
- Stable Pay and Overtime: Base salaries can reach £22,000–£30,000 annually, with extra pay for overtime and night shifts.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Some workers transition from unskilled roles into long-term residency after meeting immigration requirements.
Average Salary for Warehouse and Packaging Jobs in the UK
While salaries vary by company, region, and experience, the general pay range for 2025 is as follows:
- Entry-Level Warehouse Operative: £20,000 – £23,000 per year
- Packaging Assistant: £19,000 – £22,000 per year
- Forklift Operator (with training): £24,000 – £28,000 per year
- Warehouse Supervisor: £27,000 – £30,000 per year
Additional income opportunities come from overtime, weekend shifts, and holiday work, which are common in logistics-based employment.
Visa Sponsorship for Unskilled Workers in the UK
Historically, unskilled workers had fewer visa options. However, in 2025, the UK has expanded immigration pathways to address labor shortages in logistics and supply chains. Some companies are actively sponsoring warehouse and packaging staff under the Skilled Worker Visa category or seasonal worker schemes.
Visa sponsorship often includes:
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer
- Work contracts lasting 1–3 years
- Relocation support, including flights and initial accommodation
- Opportunity to extend contracts or switch employers after fulfilling initial obligations
Eligibility Requirements
Unlike skilled professions, warehouse and packaging jobs have minimal requirements. Candidates usually need:
- A valid international passport
- Basic English communication skills
- Willingness to work shifts, including nights and weekends
- Physical ability to handle warehouse duties
- In some cases, a clean background check
Employers generally provide on-the-job training, making this an excellent option for people without prior UK experience.
Job Responsibilities in UK Warehouses and Packaging Centers
While specific duties vary by employer, common responsibilities include:
- Sorting, labeling, and packaging goods
- Operating basic machinery like conveyor belts and scanners
- Loading and unloading delivery trucks
- Stock inventory management
- Ensuring cleanliness and safety in the warehouse
- Assisting supervisors with daily logistics operations
These roles may seem repetitive, but they provide a structured environment and opportunities for growth into supervisory roles over time.
Top UK Companies Hiring Warehouse & Packaging Workers in 2025
Several multinational corporations and UK-based logistics providers are hiring foreign workers. Leading employers include:
- Amazon UK Fulfillment Centers
- Royal Mail Warehouses
- Tesco Distribution Centers
- ASDA Logistics Services
- Marks & Spencer Warehousing Units
- DHL Supply Chain UK
- DPD Group UK
These employers are known for providing visa sponsorship, competitive pay, and relocation packages for qualified candidates.
How to Apply for Warehouse Jobs in the UK as a Foreigner
Applying for these roles requires attention to detail and preparation. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Prepare Your CV: Highlight physical stamina, teamwork skills, and any previous experience in logistics or packaging.
- Search for Licensed Sponsors: Check job portals and government lists of companies approved for visa sponsorship.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through official company websites or recruitment agencies.
- Attend Interviews: Employers may conduct interviews via Zoom or phone to assess your communication skills and availability.
- Receive a Job Offer: If successful, you’ll get a contract and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Apply for a Visa: Use your CoS to apply for the Skilled Worker Visa or Seasonal Worker Visa.
- Relocate and Begin Work: Employers often help with travel and initial accommodation.
Skills That Increase Your Employability
Although no formal qualifications are needed, certain skills boost your employability:
- Basic IT skills for handling warehouse management systems
- Forklift operation training
- Health and safety awareness
- Teamwork and communication abilities
- Flexibility for shift work
Challenges of Working in Warehouse and Packaging Roles
While these jobs are rewarding, there are challenges to consider:
- Physically Demanding: Long hours standing, lifting, and moving goods
- Shift Work: Includes nights, weekends, and holidays
- Competitive Applications: High demand means many people apply for sponsorship roles
- Cost of Living: Living expenses in big cities may be high compared to smaller towns
Despite these challenges, many foreign workers find the opportunities worthwhile because of the income, international exposure, and pathway to long-term settlement.
Career Progression Opportunities
Warehouse jobs are often the entry point for migrants, but there is room for career growth. Workers can move into:
- Team Leaders or Supervisors
- Inventory Control Specialists
- Logistics Coordinators
- Health and Safety Officers
- Operations Managers
Additional training and certifications in logistics or supply chain management open doors to higher-paying positions.
Tips for a Successful Application in 2025
- Tailor Your CV to focus on warehouse-related experience
- Be flexible with shifts and locations—rural warehouses often have urgent hiring needs
- Apply early to increase your chances before quotas fill
- Prepare for English proficiency questions during interviews
- Highlight teamwork and ability to work in fast-paced environments
Relocation and Settlement Support
Many UK employers offer settlement support to ease the transition for foreign workers. This includes:
- Initial free accommodation
- Airport pickup
- Guidance on opening UK bank accounts
- Help registering with the National Health Service (NHS)
- Orientation sessions about workplace culture and safety
Why 2025 Is the Best Time to Apply
The year 2025 offers unique advantages for foreign applicants:
- High Job Vacancies due to post-Brexit workforce gaps
- Government Support for industries facing labor shortages
- Employer Willingness to provide visa sponsorship to meet urgent needs
- Opportunity to Earn £30,000+ per Year with overtime and night shifts
FAQs
1. What types of unskilled warehouse jobs are available in the UK in 2025?
Unskilled warehouse jobs in the UK include positions such as warehouse operatives, pickers, packers, loaders, sorters, and stock assistants. These roles generally involve basic tasks like moving goods, scanning products, labeling, and preparing shipments. While they are labeled as “unskilled,” many companies provide training to help workers adapt to warehouse systems and safety regulations.
2. Can foreign workers apply for warehouse and packaging jobs in the UK?
Yes. Foreign workers can apply for these jobs, and in 2025 many UK employers are offering visa sponsorship due to labor shortages. Workers from Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and other regions are encouraged to apply directly to companies with government-approved sponsorship licenses.
3. What is the average salary for unskilled warehouse jobs in the UK?
On average, unskilled warehouse workers earn between £20,000 and £23,000 annually. With overtime, night shifts, and holiday bonuses, workers can increase their yearly income to £28,000–£30,000. Some supervisory roles may even exceed this range, especially in high-demand locations like London or Manchester.
4. Do I need formal qualifications to get a warehouse job?
No formal qualifications are required for most unskilled warehouse and packaging jobs. However, employers expect candidates to be physically fit, able to communicate in English, and willing to work shifts. Some roles that involve machinery, such as forklift operators, may require additional certifications, which employers often provide.
5. What is the visa process for foreign applicants?
Foreign workers typically apply under the Skilled Worker Visa or Seasonal Worker Visa categories. Once an employer provides a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), candidates can apply for the visa at their local UK visa center. The process usually takes 3–8 weeks depending on the country of application.
6. Which UK companies are offering visa sponsorship for warehouse roles in 2025?
Large employers like Amazon UK, Royal Mail, Tesco, ASDA, DHL, DPD Group, and Marks & Spencer logistics divisions are known to hire foreign workers. These companies face constant demand for warehouse staff and often sponsor international applicants to fill labor shortages.
7. Are there age restrictions for applying?
There are no strict age restrictions, but applicants should be physically capable of performing warehouse duties. Most employers prefer candidates between 18 and 50 years old, but older applicants with good health may also be considered.
8. Do these jobs provide accommodation for foreign workers?
Some employers offer free or subsidized accommodation for the first few months. Others provide relocation packages that include temporary housing and assistance in finding long-term accommodation. It is advisable to confirm the benefits with each employer before applying.
9. What is the work schedule like for warehouse and packaging jobs?
Warehouse jobs typically involve shift work. Workers may be assigned to morning, evening, or night shifts, including weekends and public holidays. Shifts often last 8–12 hours, with paid breaks included. Flexibility is highly valued by employers.
10. Is English proficiency required for warehouse jobs?
Yes. While the level of English proficiency required is not as high as in skilled professions, candidates must demonstrate basic communication skills for safety and coordination. Proof of English language ability may be requested during the visa application process.
11. Can warehouse workers bring their families to the UK?
Yes, workers on Skilled Worker visas can bring dependents, including spouses and children under 18. Family members may also work or study in the UK during the visa period. However, additional funds must be shown to support dependents.
12. How competitive is the application process?
Competition is increasing because many foreigners are applying for UK jobs in 2025. However, due to labor shortages, workers who meet the basic requirements and apply early have a strong chance of being hired. Demonstrating flexibility with shifts and location also improves opportunities.
13. What are the main challenges of working in UK warehouses?
The work can be physically demanding, requiring lifting, standing for long hours, and repetitive tasks. The cost of living in some UK cities is also high, which can impact savings. Shift work, particularly night shifts, can be tiring for some workers.
14. Are health and safety certifications required?
Most employers provide training and safety orientations before starting work. Some may require workers to obtain a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card or similar health and safety credentials. These certifications ensure that workers can operate safely in a warehouse environment.
15. Can unskilled warehouse jobs lead to permanent residency in the UK?
Yes. Workers on Skilled Worker visas can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence, provided they meet salary thresholds and other immigration requirements. Many workers start in unskilled roles and progress toward long-term residency.
16. What documents are required to apply for these jobs?
Key documents include a valid passport, CV or résumé, job offer letter, Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), proof of English proficiency, and in some cases, a police clearance certificate or medical report. Applicants must also show proof of sufficient funds unless the employer covers these costs.
17. Can I change employers once I’m in the UK?
Yes, but you must secure a new Certificate of Sponsorship from another licensed employer and update your visa details. Workers are allowed to change jobs as long as they follow the Home Office requirements.
18. What are the chances of career growth in warehouse roles?
Although these jobs start as unskilled, many workers progress to supervisory roles, logistics coordinators, or operations managers after gaining experience. Employers often promote reliable staff, and training programs are available for those who wish to specialize in supply chain management.
19. How can I improve my chances of getting hired?
To boost your chances, prepare a professional CV, apply directly to companies with sponsorship licenses, demonstrate willingness to relocate to less competitive areas, and highlight any prior warehouse or packaging experience. Obtaining forklift operation or safety training can also make you stand out.
20. Is 2025 a good year to apply for UK warehouse and packaging jobs?
Yes, 2025 is an excellent year to apply. The UK is facing critical labor shortages in logistics and warehousing, leading many employers to look abroad for workers. With rising e-commerce demand and government-backed visa schemes, foreign applicants have better opportunities than in previous years.
Conclusion
Pursuing unskilled warehouse and packaging jobs in the UK in 2025 is a practical pathway for foreigners seeking stable employment and international relocation. With salaries reaching up to £30,000 annually, employer-sponsored visas, and opportunities for long-term settlement, these roles offer much more than entry-level income. They are stepping stones to career advancement, financial stability, and a better future abroad.
With salaries reaching up to £30,000 annually, employer-sponsored visas, and opportunities for long-term settlement, these roles offer much more than entry-level income. They are stepping stones to career advancement, financial stability, and a better future abroad.
As the UK continues to expand its logistics and e-commerce sectors, the demand for dedicated workers will remain high. If you’re prepared to work hard, adapt to new environments, and take advantage of relocation packages, 2025 is the perfect year to apply for warehouse and packaging jobs in the UK.