Top Finance Assistant Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship

Pursuing a Finance Assistant job in the UK with visa sponsorship can open doors to a rewarding international career. As businesses across various sectors rely heavily on accurate financial management, Finance Assistants play an integral role in daily accounting operations and overall financial accuracy.

If you're an international candidate aiming to work in the UK, this guide outlines key job responsibilities, required skills, average salaries, visa pathways, and where to find job openings.

What Does a Finance Assistant Do?

A Finance Assistant supports finance departments by handling everyday accounting tasks that ensure the business runs smoothly. Common responsibilities include:

• Processing invoices and payments: Ensuring timely entry, approval, and settlement of invoices.
• Maintaining financial records: Organizing ledgers and keeping accurate transaction histories.
• Assisting in financial reporting: Supporting the preparation of reports, budgets, and statements.
• Reconciling accounts: Matching transactions against bank and accounting records.
• Supporting audits: Preparing necessary files and reports during internal or external audits.
• Collaborating with departments: Coordinating budgets and expense reports with various teams.

This entry-level role serves as a gateway into finance and accounting, often leading to more advanced positions like Assistant Accountant or Finance Analyst.

Demand for Finance Assistants in the UK

The UK’s diverse economy creates ongoing demand for finance professionals. Industries such as banking, retail, healthcare, and consulting all require Finance Assistants. Major firms like HSBC, Barclays, and PwC continuously seek reliable finance support staff, making this a high-demand and stable career path.

Qualifications and Skills Needed for Finance Assistant Roles

🎓 Educational Background

• A high school diploma or equivalent is typically the minimum requirement.
• Most employers prefer candidates with a certificate or degree in finance, accounting, or business.
• Professional qualifications like AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) or ACCA Foundation increase employability.

💻 Technical Skills

• Familiarity with accounting tools such as Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data entry and analysis.
• Understanding of basic accounting principles, especially double-entry bookkeeping.

🤝 Soft Skills

• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities.
• Good verbal and written communication for liaising with suppliers and internal teams.

🧠 Experience

• Entry-level applicants benefit from internships, apprenticeships, or administrative roles related to finance.

Top UK Cities Offering the Best Salaries for Finance Assistants

Salaries vary depending on location, employer size, and sector. Here are the UK regions known for offering competitive pay:

• London – The finance capital with salaries often exceeding national averages.
• South East England – Cities like Reading and Guildford offer strong salary packages due to a robust corporate presence.
• Birmingham (Midlands) – A rapidly growing business hub with consistent demand for finance professionals.
• Edinburgh & Glasgow (Scotland) – Particularly attractive for those interested in banking and insurance sectors.
• Manchester – Booming tech and finance industries contribute to higher-than-average salaries.

Finance Assistant Salary Expectations in the UK

Here’s a breakdown of average salaries based on experience:

Visa-sponsored employees typically receive the same pay as UK citizens, assuming they meet qualification and experience thresholds.

UK Companies Hiring Finance Assistants with Visa Sponsorship

Several well-known UK companies actively recruit Finance Assistants and may offer visa sponsorship to qualified foreign applicants:

• Barclays – Offers roles across finance operations and accounting support.
• HSBC – Frequently recruits for positions supporting global finance functions.
• KPMG, Deloitte, PwC – Top firms in audit and consulting, often hiring for support finance staff.
• Tesco & Sainsbury’s – Large retail chains requiring financial assistants for regional and head offices.

Job vacancies are typically listed on LinkedIn, Indeed UK, and company career portals.

Visa Options for International Finance Assistant Applicants

To work legally in the UK, foreign Finance Assistants must apply for an appropriate visa. Here are common options:

🛂 Skilled Worker Visa

• Most suitable for Finance Assistants.
• Requires a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor and a salary that meets the visa threshold (usually £26,200 or £10.75/hour).
• Your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

🎓 Graduate Visa

• Available to international graduates from UK institutions.
• Valid for two years (or three for PhD holders), allowing job search without sponsorship.

🔄 Temporary Work Visa (Tier 5)

• Ideal for short-term placements or internships in finance.

🌍 Global Talent Visa

• Primarily for senior finance professionals or those with recognized expertise—less relevant for entry-level positions.

Where to Find Finance Assistant Job Openings in the UK

Start your job hunt with these platforms:

• Indeed UK – Thousands of finance job listings with filters for visa sponsorship.
• LinkedIn Jobs – Build connections and apply directly to recruiters.
• Reed.co.uk – A reliable job portal with new postings daily.
• TotalJobs – Great for discovering region-specific roles.
• Company Career Pages – Apply directly to firms like HSBC, Barclays, and Deloitte.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying as an International Candidate

Here’s how to apply for a Finance Assistant job in the UK as an immigrant:

1. Create a UK-standard CV and Cover Letter – Highlight finance tools, bookkeeping experience, and accounting knowledge.
2. Search Smartly – Use filters for visa sponsorship on job boards.
3. Build Your Network – Connect with UK recruiters on LinkedIn. Consider agencies like Hays, Page Personnel, or Robert Walters.
4. Nail the Interview – Prepare for questions on financial systems, Excel tasks, and real-world accounting scenarios.
5. Secure Your Visa – Once you have an offer, your employer should issue a Certificate of Sponsorship.
6. Complete Your Application – Follow UK visa application guidelines on gov.uk.
7. Plan Your Move – Arrange housing and learn about UK tax systems and national insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need a degree to work as a Finance Assistant in the UK?
A: Not necessarily. While a finance-related degree is helpful, qualifications like AAT or ACCA Foundation can be equally valuable.

Q: Can I get a Finance Assistant job in the UK without experience?
A: Yes, entry-level roles are available for candidates with the right education and technical skills.

Q: Do UK employers offer visa sponsorship for this role?
A: Some employers do, especially if you're qualified and the role meets Skilled Worker Visa requirements.

Q: How much can I earn as a Finance Assistant in the UK?
A: Salaries range from £20,000 to £45,000 depending on location and experience.

Q: Can I get permanent residency in the UK as a Finance Assistant?
A: After five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Final Thoughts

The Finance Assistant job in the UK with visa sponsorship offers a reliable career path for international candidates. With competitive salaries, abundant job openings, and clear visa pathways, it’s a smart choice for finance professionals looking to relocate.

Start by gaining the right qualifications, applying through trusted platforms, and connecting with UK-based employers. Your journey to working in UK finance could be just a few steps away.