Do UK Consulting Firms Currently Sponsor Visas for Consultant / Senior Consultant Roles?

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m currently exploring opportunities in consulting in the UK - London and would appreciate your insights on a specific question:

Do consulting firms (e.g. MBB, Big 4, or others) currently consider applicants for Consultant or Senior Consultant roles who require visa sponsorship?

I have 10+ years of work experience, two academic degrees related to consulting, and experience in consulting-related work—however, I’ve never worked directly at a consulting firm. So far, I’ve submitted around 20 applications, but I haven’t been invited to a single interview, which makes me wonder if visa sponsorship might be a barrier.

If anyone has recent insights or personal experiences to share, I’d be truly grateful!

Thanks so much in advance!

Answer 1

Yes, consulting firms in the UK do sponsor visas for Consultant and Senior Consultant roles, but recent changes in immigration rules have made the landscape more complex.

Visa sponsorship overview

MBB (McKinsey, BCG, Bain): These firms continue to sponsor skilled worker visas for experienced hires, especially for roles that meet the new salary thresholds. For instance, Consultant-level positions at MBB firms in the UK typically offer salaries ranging from £90,000 to £97,000, which are well above the current visa salary threshold.
Big four (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC): These firms have faced challenges due to the UK's increased salary thresholds for visa sponsorship. In 2024, the UK government raised the minimum salary requirement for skilled worker visas to £38,700, or £30,960 for individuals under 26. This change has led some firms, like KPMG, to withdraw offers to foreign graduates, particularly for roles that don't meet the new salary criteria.

Your profile consideration

Given your 10+ years of experience and relevant academic background:

Target senior roles: Focus on positions where the salary naturally exceeds the visa threshold, such as Senior Consultant or Manager roles.
Highlight unique qualifications: Emphasize your extensive experience and how it brings value to the firm, making you a strong candidate worth the sponsorship investment.

Recommendations

Direct communication: Reach out to recruiters or HR departments of target firms to inquire about their current visa sponsorship policies for experienced hires. This can provide clarity and save time.
Broaden your search: Consider exploring opportunities in firms known for sponsoring visas for experienced professionals.
Stay updated: Keep abreast of any further changes in UK immigration policies that might affect visa sponsorship eligibility.

If you need assistance in tailoring your CV or preparing for interviews to enhance your candidacy for these roles, feel free to ask!

Answer 2

Yes, most of them sponsor it.

Have a chat upfront with the recruiter to understand the requirements.

The earlier you have clarity on this, the better.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 3

Yes, they (strategy consulting firms) sponsor VISAs.

But you will be at a disadvantage vs. other candidates.

Answer 4

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