Do you want to move to the UK and work? Many people around the world dream of starting a new life in the United Kingdom. But one big problem is the visa. You may ask: Can I get a visa for a dishwasher job in the UK?
This is a common question. Many workers look at jobs in restaurants, hotels, and care homes. Dishwasher jobs seem like an easy way to enter. But the truth is more complex.
This guide will explain the real rules in 2025. We will talk about the UK visa system, which jobs can get sponsorship, and what steps you can take to improve your chances.
(Image Suggestion: Show a modern, clean kitchen with a happy worker in uniform. Make it simple and mobile-friendly.)
Understanding the UK Visa System: The Reality for Low-Skilled Jobs
Before you look for a job, you must know how the UK visa works. The main visa for workers is the Skilled Worker visa. Before, it was called Tier 2 visa.
Not every job can get this visa. To be sponsored, the job must:
- Be from an employer with a valid Sponsor Licence.
- Have a job code on the official eligible jobs list.
- Pay at least the minimum salary set by the government.
- Be at the right skill level. From July 2025, this is RQF Level 6 (like a bachelor’s degree).
Here is the problem: dishwasher jobs are not on the list. They are seen as “low-skilled.” This means you cannot get a Skilled Worker visa only for washing dishes.
(Infographic Suggestion: A simple chart comparing Dishwasher and Kitchen Porter. Show Dishwasher = not eligible, Kitchen Porter = maybe eligible depending on tasks.)
The Critical Difference: “Dishwasher” vs. “Kitchen Porter”
Some people think dishwasher and kitchen porter are the same job. But in the UK, they are different. And this difference can change your visa chance.
- Dishwasher: The main task is washing dishes, plates, and pans. It is important for hygiene, but the role is very limited. This job does not meet visa rules.
- Kitchen Porter (KP): This role is bigger. A KP does many jobs, such as:
- Helping chefs with simple food prep (like peeling vegetables).
- Organizing and storing food.
- Cleaning all parts of the kitchen.
- Carrying and sorting deliveries.
- Taking out rubbish and keeping order.
Because this role is wider, some employers may place it under another job code. That code may sometimes allow sponsorship.
In 2025, a report from UKHospitality showed there were about 79,000 open jobs in food and accommodation. This shows there is big demand. Some employers may look abroad to fill roles.
The 2025 UK Immigration Landscape: What’s New?
The UK made many changes in 2024 and 2025. These new rules are very important:
- Higher Salary Needs: From July 22, 2025, you must earn at least £41,700 per year or the “going rate” for the job.
- Immigration Salary List (ISL): Before there was a Shortage Occupation List. Now it is called the ISL. It is shorter. Some chefs are on this list, but Kitchen Porter is not.
- No Dependents for Low-Skilled Jobs: If your job is on the ISL and below RQF Level 6, you cannot bring your family with you. This is new from 2025.
(Video Suggestion: A short government video that explains the 2025 visa rules in easy words.)
Your Strategic Action Plan: How to Find Sponsored Kitchen Jobs
If you search for “Dishwasher job with sponsorship,” you will not find much. You must be smart and use the right method.
1. Change the Job Title You Search
Look for job names that have more chance of sponsorship. Examples:
- Kitchen Assistant with visa sponsorship UK
- Catering Assistant sponsored jobs
- Kitchen Porter UK work visa
- Chef de Partie sponsorship
- Commis Chef Tier 2 visa
2. Use the Official Sponsor List
The UK Home Office has a list of companies that can sponsor visas. This is called the Register of Licensed Sponsors.
- You can download it from the GOV.UK website.
- You can search by city or industry.
- Visit each company’s website. Sometimes jobs are posted there but not on big job boards.
3. Look at the Right Sectors
Some industries have more need for workers. Focus on:
- Big hotel chains – They usually sponsor visas.
- Fine dining restaurants – These may need more skilled staff.
- Care homes – Many care homes hire catering assistants.
4. Make Good Application Materials
Even for simple jobs, your CV and cover letter matter.
- CV/Resume: Show any kitchen or hospitality experience. Add teamwork, hygiene, and stamina skills.
- Cover Letter: Write why you want to work in UK hospitality. Show your long-term interest.
- Proof of Funds: You must show at least £1,270 savings, unless your employer covers this.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
-
Is a Kitchen Porter’s pay enough for sponsorship?
Not usually. Kitchen Porter is not on the eligible job list. But sometimes an employer may give you a role like Commis Chef, which can meet the pay rule.
-
What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
It is not a paper. It is a digital number your employer gives you. You need this number to apply for your visa.
-
Are there other visas besides the Skilled Worker visa?
Yes. There is a Seasonal Worker visa for farm work. But it does not cover hospitality jobs.
-
Can I bring my family?
If the role is on the ISL and low-skilled, you cannot bring dependents. For higher-skilled roles, you may bring your partner and children. Always check the rules.
Conclusion: Your Path to a UK Career
So, can you get a dishwasher job in the UK with visa sponsorship in 2025? The answer is no, not directly. Dishwasher is not an eligible role.
But you can still try if you:
- Aim for wider roles like Kitchen Porter or Catering Assistant.
- Apply only to licensed sponsors.
- Learn the rules carefully.
- Write a strong CV and cover letter.
It is not easy, but it is possible. The UK hospitality sector always needs workers. If you are patient and keep trying, you may find your chance.
Author Bio
This guide was written by immigration experts. We used data from the UK Home Office and official rules for 2025. The advice here is real and trusted.
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(Poll Suggestion: “What is the hardest part of finding a UK sponsored job?” Options: Finding licensed sponsors, Meeting pay rules, Understanding visa laws, Language skills.)