HGV Driver Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship for Overseas Applicants

Job Title: HGV Driver Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship for Overseas Applicants
Hiring Organization: Leading UK Logistics Firms, Retail Chains, and Freight Companies
Location: Nationwide (London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Key Transport Hubs)
Employment Type: Full-Time/Permanent or Contract
Salary: £28,000 – £45,000+ per annum (dependent on experience and route type)

Table of Contents

Why the UK? Drive the Backbone of British Commerce

The UK faces a critical shortage of 50,000+ HGV drivers (Road Haulage Association, 2023), creating unprecedented opportunities for international drivers to secure Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship and join a sector vital to the nation’s economy. From delivering essentials to supermarkets to transporting machinery for infrastructure projects, your role will keep Britain moving.

For overseas applicants, this means competitive pay, relocation support, and a clear pathway to UK residency. With major employers offering training to convert foreign licenses and cover certification costs, now is the time to accelerate your career on Britain’s roads.

Job Overview

HGV Drivers (Cat C/CE License Holders – Visa Sponsorship Available)
Our partner employers—including top logistics firms, retail giants, and freight specialists—are recruiting experienced HGV drivers to address the UK’s delivery crisis. These roles are open to non-UK applicants with valid heavy goods vehicle licenses, offering visa sponsorship, CPC training, and mentorship to navigate UK regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Safe Vehicle Operation:

Drive HGV vehicles (rigid, articulated, or specialist transport) in compliance with UK traffic laws and EU driving hours regulations.
Conduct pre/post-journey inspections (defect reporting, load security checks).

Route Management:

Plan efficient routes using GPS/digital tools, adapting to traffic, weather, and delivery windows.
Transport goods ranging from perishables (food, pharmaceuticals) to construction materials.

Customer & Compliance:

Deliver goods on time, obtaining proof of delivery and resolving client queries.
Maintain accurate digital tachograph records and Driver CPC documentation.

Vehicle Care:

Perform basic maintenance (tyre pressure, fluid checks) and report mechanical issues.

Safety Advocacy:

Adhere to FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) and CLOCS (Construction Logistics) safety standards.

Requirements

Licensing:

Valid HGV license (Category C/CE or equivalent from home country).
Driver CPC: Willingness to obtain UK Certificate of Professional Competence (employers fund training).

Experience:

1+ year of professional HGV driving experience.

Language Proficiency:

IELTS: 4.0 overall (minimum 4.0 in speaking/listening) or pass an approved English test.

Visa Eligibility:

Qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa (employers provide Certificate of Sponsorship).

Desirable Skills

ADR certification for hazardous goods transport.
Experience with refrigerated vehicles or abnormal load escorts.
Familiarity with UK motorways and A-roads.

What We Offer

1. Visa & Relocation Support

Skilled Worker Visa: Full coverage of application fees (£1,423) and Immigration Health Surcharge (£624/year).
Relocation Package: Up to £2,500 for flights, temporary accommodation, and UK driving theory tests.

Salary:

New Entrants: £28,000 – £32,000
Experienced Drivers: £33,000 – £40,000
Specialist Roles (e.g., fuel tankers): £41,000 – £45,000+

2. Training & Career Growth

CPC Training: Free 35-hour periodic training to meet UK standards.
License Conversion: Support to exchange foreign HGV licenses for UK equivalents.
Career Pathways: Progress to roles like Transport Manager or Fleet Supervisor.

3. Work-Life Balance

Flexible Shifts: Choose between local/day shifts or long-haul routes with overnight stays.
Overtime Pay: Enhanced rates for weekends/night drives.
Holiday Allowance: 28 days + 8 public holidays (pro rata for contract roles).

4. Community & Support

Buddy System: Paired with an experienced driver for route familiarization.
Driver Welfare: Access to 24/7 roadside assistance and free health checks.

About Our Partner Employers

We collaborate with:

Retail Giants: Supplying supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s from regional distribution centers.
Logistics Leaders: Managing fleets for DHL, Wincanton, and Eddie Stobart.
Construction Hauliers: Transporting materials for HS2 and housing projects.
Fuel Transport Firms: Delivering petrol/diesel to forecourts nationwide.