The United Kingdom has become one of the most attractive destinations for skilled professionals around the world. For Nigerians and other non-EU citizens looking to build a career in a tech-driven environment, landing a high-paying job at a globally recognized company like Meta (formerly Facebook) offers not only career growth but also visa sponsorship opportunities. The UK tech market continues to grow, creating more demand for experienced professionals in various areas such as software engineering, product management, cybersecurity, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
Meta, one of the top global employers in the tech space, has offices in London and other parts of the UK. These offices are constantly hiring talent from across the world, including from Africa. The UK government has also created pathways that make it easier for foreign talent to work legally through work visas. And with Meta’s commitment to global talent acquisition, qualified individuals stand a good chance of receiving visa support directly from the company if they meet the required standards.
This article explores everything you need to know about how to get a job at Meta in the UK. You’ll also find useful information about UK migration options, visa types, salary expectations, and answers to the most common questions foreign job seekers ask. Whether you’re an IT graduate from Nigeria or a seasoned tech professional from Kenya, this guide is your starting point to working in one of the world’s biggest companies.
Ways to Migrate to UK
Migrating to the UK can be done through several official and legal channels, depending on your goals, skills, and background. For those looking to relocate for work, the most direct route is the Skilled Worker visa. This visa type allows foreign professionals to live and work in the UK when they have a job offer from an approved employer. Companies like Meta are on the list of licensed sponsors, making this route particularly suitable for tech talent.
Another pathway is through the Global Talent visa, which is tailored for individuals in the tech, science, humanities, and arts sectors who are considered leaders or potential leaders in their field. If you have strong achievements or a solid portfolio in tech, this visa might be an option even without a job offer.
For younger people or students, the Graduate Route allows international students who have finished a degree in the UK to stay and work for up to two years (or three for PhD holders) after graduation. This gives graduates time to find long-term employment and eventually switch to other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker route.
You can also consider family-based migration. If you have a spouse or relative who is a UK citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a family visa. This path may eventually lead to work rights, depending on the type of visa issued.
There is also the Health and Care Worker visa, which is ideal for professionals in healthcare fields. Though not related to tech jobs at Meta, it remains one of the quickest routes for those in medical professions.
It’s important to apply through legitimate channels. Always start with the UK government’s official visa website or directly through a certified employer like Meta. Make sure all documents are genuine and complete, as the UK Home Office is very strict about compliance.
Migration to the UK is not only possible, it is now more structured than ever. The key is matching your skill level and qualifications to the correct visa route and employer.
What is the Quickest Way to Migrate to the UK?
If you’re searching for the fastest route to migrate legally to the United Kingdom, securing a job offer with Visa Sponsorship from a licensed UK employer is the most effective way. For tech professionals eyeing a position at Meta, this route is straightforward, legal, and tailored to attract skilled workers.
The Skilled Worker visa is often regarded as the quickest and most reliable migration option for professionals. Once a company like Meta provides you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), you can apply for this visa and, if all documents are in order, receive a decision within three weeks when applying from outside the UK. That is relatively fast compared to many other immigration systems in the world.
Another quick route for top-level experts in tech is the Global Talent visa. Though this requires endorsement from Tech Nation or another endorsing body, once approved, you can apply for entry and start work almost immediately. The advantage of this visa is that it gives more flexibility compared to other visa types, including the freedom to change employers without requiring a new visa.
For young individuals who recently studied in the UK, the Graduate Route is another fast path. It doesn’t require a job offer, and once you hold this visa, you can work anywhere, including at tech companies like Meta. If you impress your employer, they can later sponsor you under a Skilled Worker visa, allowing for long-term stay and even settlement.
There’s also the Youth Mobility Scheme visa for citizens of selected countries, though Nigeria is not included in this list at the moment.
In terms of preparation, speed depends on how quickly you secure a job offer. Having a strong CV tailored for UK employers, experience in high-demand roles such as software development, and an active LinkedIn profile improves your chances of being noticed by companies like Meta.
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The quickest path isn’t just about picking the right visa—it’s about having the right skills, finding an employer that can sponsor you, and applying early with accurate paperwork. If you follow the process properly, moving to the UK for work can take just a few months.
How to Migrate to the UK as a Nigerian
For Nigerians looking to relocate to the United Kingdom, several migration options are available based on your qualifications, work experience, and personal situation. One of the most recommended pathways is the Skilled Worker visa, which allows you to work in the UK legally if you have a job offer from a licensed employer like Meta.
First, make sure your academic qualifications and work experience match the job role you’re targeting. Tech jobs at Meta typically require a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Having professional certifications in programming, cloud computing, or data science can increase your chances.
Once your credentials are ready, start applying for jobs through Meta’s official careers portal or trusted job platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor. Look out for roles that mention “visa sponsorship available” or “international applicants welcome.” Meta openly supports diversity and hires skilled individuals from various countries, including Nigeria.
When you land an interview, be well-prepared. Understand the UK work culture, learn about Meta’s mission and products, and be ready to explain how your skills can contribute to the company. If successful, Meta will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship, which is essential for your visa application.
Next, apply for the Skilled Worker visa online via the UK Home Office website. You will be required to submit documents such as your international passport, proof of your job offer, academic transcripts, English proficiency (usually IELTS), and proof of funds if applicable. Visa fees and health surcharge must also be paid.
Another route is the UK’s Global Talent visa. If you have significant achievements in tech, such as open-source contributions, international recognitions, or publications, you may qualify for this visa. It doesn’t require a job offer, and you can work with any employer, including Meta.
Also, Nigerian students studying in the UK can apply for the Graduate Route to stay and work after completing their studies. Many Nigerian professionals have used this opportunity to gain UK work experience before switching to longer-term visas.
Migration from Nigeria to the UK is entirely possible with proper documentation, skills, and a strong application. Thousands of Nigerians are already working in the UK’s tech sector, and with persistence, you can join them.
Can I Move to the UK without a Job?
Many people dream of moving to the UK for better work and living conditions, but the question of whether one can move without a job offer is common. The honest answer is yes, it’s possible, but it largely depends on the visa category you are applying under. However, the chances of a long-term legal stay increase significantly when you have a job.
One route that allows you to move to the UK without having a job beforehand is the Student visa. Nigerians and other international students can gain admission into UK universities and migrate legally. After graduation, students can apply for the Graduate Route, which allows them to stay for up to two years (three for doctoral students) to look for work. During this time, they are permitted to work full-time in any field and apply for a job that might later lead to sponsorship under a Skilled Worker visa.
Another pathway is through the UK Ancestry visa, available to those who have a grandparent born in the UK, although this doesn’t apply to most Nigerians. This visa allows you to work and live in the UK for up to five years without a prior job offer.
The Global Talent visa also allows you to enter the UK without an offer of employment if you are recognized as a leader or future leader in tech. This is an exceptional option for individuals with notable tech achievements or international recognition. If granted, you can work at any company, including Meta, or start your own tech business.
There is also the Start-Up and Innovator visa, designed for individuals with unique business ideas. If accepted, you can migrate without having a job but must commit to building your business in the UK.
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That said, moving to the UK without a job means you must provide proof that you can support yourself financially during your stay. You also need to comply with the strict visa rules, which might limit your ability to access public funds or certain services.
Although jobless migration is possible, it is not the easiest or most direct path. The most secure and cost-effective route remains the Skilled Worker visa, especially for those targeting companies like Meta. This way, the employer handles much of the visa process and can even assist with relocation, making the journey smoother and more financially manageable.
Salary Expectations for Foreigners in UK
The UK offers a wide range of salaries depending on your job role, qualifications, and location. For foreigners, especially those coming from countries like Nigeria, the salary difference can be quite significant, offering a much better standard of living compared to their home countries. Companies like Meta are among the highest-paying employers in the UK, particularly for roles in the tech sector.
For entry-level tech jobs such as Junior Software Engineers or IT Analysts, the salary range is typically between £35,000 and £50,000 annually. For mid-level professionals with 3–5 years of experience, this figure can go up to £70,000. At senior or lead levels, salaries often exceed £100,000 per year, especially at global companies like Meta. This does not include benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and health insurance.
In addition to high salaries, UK law mandates a minimum wage, which increases annually and protects workers from exploitation. As of 2025, the minimum hourly wage stands at around £11.44, but most foreign professionals working in skilled roles earn far above that.
Working in London or other major cities like Manchester and Edinburgh often means higher pay. However, living costs in these cities are also higher. Meta’s offices in London offer competitive salaries that reflect the city’s economic environment. In many cases, Meta also provides relocation support, including a housing allowance or temporary accommodation when you first arrive in the UK.
For workers under the Skilled Worker visa, the UK government has set salary thresholds. You must be offered a minimum salary (usually £26,200 or £10.75 per hour), although this is often much lower than what major companies like Meta offer. High-paying roles such as software developers, cybersecurity analysts, data engineers, and product managers are well above these thresholds.
It’s also important to note that your salary can grow quickly with performance and experience. Many Nigerian professionals working in the UK can save money, support families back home, or even invest in UK-based property within a few years.
To negotiate a better offer, research average industry salaries, get UK certifications if possible, and show confidence during the interview process. Remember, UK companies value skills, commitment, and the ability to work well in teams.
Overall, foreigners working in the UK, especially in tech roles, enjoy strong earning power, access to a stable currency, and better job security.
Visa Types and Options for Foreigners in UK
Understanding the right visa type is essential if you are planning to work or live in the UK. The country has a well-structured immigration system that offers various options depending on your situation, background, and career goals. For foreigners, especially from outside the EU such as Nigeria, the most common route is the Skilled Worker visa.
The Skilled Worker visa allows foreign professionals to take up employment with an approved UK employer that is licensed to sponsor foreign workers. Companies like Meta fall under this category. To qualify, you must have a job offer, meet the English language requirement, and be paid at least the minimum salary set by the government. This visa can lead to permanent residency after five years.
Another popular option is the Global Talent visa. This is suitable for individuals in tech, science, humanities, and creative fields who are considered experts or rising stars in their industry. You don’t need a job offer to apply, but you must be endorsed by a recognized UK body like Tech Nation (for tech professionals). This visa offers greater flexibility, including the freedom to change jobs without a new visa application.
The Graduate visa is for international students who have completed their studies at a UK institution. This visa allows them to stay and work in the UK for two years (or three if they completed a PhD). During this time, they can look for jobs and apply for long-term visas like the Skilled Worker visa once they find a sponsoring employer.
Other options include the Health and Care Worker visa, Start-Up visa, Innovator visa, and UK Ancestry visa. Each of these has specific eligibility criteria and is suitable for different types of applicants. For example, the Health and Care Worker visa is aimed at nurses, doctors, and care professionals and comes with reduced visa fees.
Family visas also exist for those who have close relatives who are UK citizens or permanent residents. These visas allow spouses, children, and in some cases, parents to move to the UK.
Each visa category has its own set of requirements, application procedures, and validity periods. It’s crucial to carefully review the official UK Home Office website or speak with an immigration adviser before starting your application. Always make sure your documents are complete and truthful to avoid being denied entry or facing future immigration problems.
If your dream is to work at Meta, the Skilled Worker visa or Global Talent visa are your best bets. Both provide a solid foundation for employment, settlement, and eventually UK citizenship if you choose to stay long term.
How to Secure a Job at Meta (Facebook) in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
Securing a job at Meta in the United Kingdom as a foreign national with visa sponsorship is entirely possible, but it requires planning, preparation, and the right approach. Meta, being a global tech leader, has a strong presence in London and regularly hires international talent in fields like software engineering, AI, cybersecurity, data science, marketing, product management, and legal operations.
The first step is to identify open roles on Meta’s official careers portal. You can filter jobs by location, department, and job type. Look specifically for openings based in the UK, and read the job description carefully. Roles that mention “visa sponsorship available” or “eligible for international applicants” are your main targets.
Next, tailor your CV and cover letter to match the UK job market. Meta’s hiring team looks for specific skills, clear experience, and alignment with their company mission. Include keywords related to your field, such as “cloud infrastructure,” “user experience,” “data privacy,” or “AI ethics,” depending on your specialization. Keep your CV to two pages and focus on results you’ve achieved in previous roles.
Once you submit your application, you may be invited for a phone screening. This will be followed by one or more technical or behavioral interviews. For tech positions, Meta uses a structured process that includes coding challenges, system design interviews, and cultural fit assessments. Prepare using real-world case studies, and always practice your communication.
If successful, Meta will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is necessary for your UK visa application. Meta is a licensed sponsor under the UK immigration rules, and they often assist with the relocation process, including immigration paperwork, housing arrangements, and even temporary accommodation in the UK.
Make sure to apply for the Skilled Worker visa as soon as you get your offer letter. Submit all required documents and pay the visa fee and health surcharge. In most cases, decisions are made within 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK.
Also, build a strong LinkedIn profile. Recruiters from Meta often reach out to candidates based on what they see on LinkedIn. Join tech communities, attend hackathons, and contribute to open-source projects to boost your visibility.
With focus and consistency, many Nigerians and other foreigners have landed roles at Meta and moved to the UK with full Visa Sponsorship. Meta’s commitment to hiring the best talent globally means that your location is not a barrier—your skillset, attitude, and preparation are what matter most.