Indeed: Global interest in UK jobs post-Brexit lifts to pre-pandemic levels
Searches from across the world for UK-based jobs have returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to jobs site Indeed, as international workers eye easing travel restrictions.
The UK’s new points-based immigration system has seemingly drawn in interest for its higher-paid jobs post-Brexit after Indeed’s new job rates slumped in the height of pandemic uncertainty.
As the government mulls lifting restrictions completely in July, searches for UK-based jobs from outside of the EU have spiked.
Better paid positions are attracting a lot of eyes, particularly in Commonwealth countries and Hong Kong, Indeed added.
The UK has already received over 34,000 applications this year for its bespoke British National Overseas (BNO) visa from Hong Kong citizens, following Beijing’s democracy crackdown in the former colony.
Post-Brexit plummet of EU interest
Despite the international interest, demand from EU nationals for UK jobs has dropped significantly, particularly among lower-paid roles.
During the Brexit campaign, Leave supporters suggested that an end to the EU’s free movement could cut foreign labour in industries like hospitality.
However, now interest has taken a sharp fall, Brexit-supporting boss of JD Wetherspoon, Tim Martin, has called on the government to launch a visa scheme for EU workers to help hospitality recruit more staff.
Job searches from EU workers on lower-paid UK jobs during May dipped 41 per cent below the 2019 average, Indeed found.
Indeed added that while higher-paid roles in fields such as tech, financial services, medicine and engineering should be filled with ease, companies hiring for lower-paid positions may struggle more.
Indeed’s UK economist, Jack Kennedy, said: “Two distinct pictures are emerging for employers looking to hire talent from abroad.”