As the UK haulage sector continues to face a shortage of qualified drivers, many fleet operators are now looking beyond domestic recruitment. Recruiting international HGV drivers can help keep loads moving and expand fleet capacity, especially for companies managing mixed fleets of HGVs and vans.
But hiring from overseas comes with extra steps. In this guide, we’ll break down the legal requirements, visa processes and some practical tips to help your team bring in qualified drivers from abroad.
What we’ll cover
Understanding the legal framework
Before hiring from outside the UK, it’s important to understand what the law requires from your business.
Failing to meet immigration rules can lead to fines, delays or even suspension from future hiring schemes.
UK immigration routes for HGV drivers
Most international HGV drivers come to the UK through the Skilled Worker visa route. This visa allows workers to live and work in the UK if they’ve been offered a qualifying job from a licensed sponsor.
Your business must be registered as a sponsor to use this route. This isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. The Home Office expects sponsors to monitor and report on sponsored employees.
Other routes, like temporary worker visas, may apply in some cases, but most long-term hires will need a Skilled Worker visa. Drivers must also meet English language and salary requirements set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Right to work checks and compliance
Before your new driver starts work, you’ll need to complete a right to work check. This means verifying the individual’s identity documents and visa status. It’s your responsibility to keep proper records.
Failing to do this properly can result in civil penalties. You’ll also risk losing your sponsor licence, which would impact any future overseas hiring.
Visa sponsorship process for haulage companies
To start recruiting international HGV drivers, you’ll need to become a licensed sponsor. This process involves an application fee, document checks and a commitment to meeting sponsor duties.
How to apply for a sponsor licence
You’ll first need to apply to the Home Office for a sponsor licence. Fees vary depending on the size of your business. Most medium or large fleets will pay the higher rate.
You’ll need to provide company records, demonstrate that your roles are genuine and show you’ve got the right systems in place to monitor sponsored staff. Most applications are processed in around 8 weeks, but delays can happen if documents are missing or unclear.
Once approved, you can assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to overseas drivers who’ve been offered a role. This is a digital document they’ll use when applying for their visa.
How to manage visa applicants
The Skilled Worker visa process includes biometric enrolment, documentation, and a possible electronic travel authorisation (ETA) for some nationalities. Most decisions are returned within 3 weeks, although it can take longer during busy periods.
While drivers are waiting, make sure they understand what they’ll need on arrival, such as housing, right to work documents and training plans. These early weeks can shape long-term driver retention.
Tips for recruiting international HGV drivers
Once you’ve got your sponsor licence, the next step is finding the right people.
Overseas recruitment takes time and planning, but it can offer strong long-term benefits.
Finding the right candidates
Use experienced recruiters who specialise in sourcing international HGV drivers. They’ll know what to look for in applications and can help you avoid issues with visa rejections or licence conversions.
Pay attention to driver experience, licensing history and the types of vehicles they’re qualified to operate. Knowing the types of lorry your fleet runs will help match candidates more effectively.
Make sure any overseas qualifications can be converted or recognised under UK law. Some drivers may need to take extra tests before they can legally drive here.
Supporting your new recruits
Helping overseas drivers settle into their role isn’t just good practice—it helps with long-term retention. Provide help with accommodation, local travel and general orientation. A welcome pack with basic UK road rules, HGV driver hours and contact numbers can make a big difference.
Include time for familiarisation with routes, your depot, and any digital systems you use. Whether you’re managing HGV drivers directly or through a transport manager, clear communication is key in the early days.
What’s next for fleets hiring abroad?
Bringing in talent from overseas can help your operation grow—especially if you’re struggling to recruit locally. But it’s not a quick fix. It requires planning, patience and a willingness to invest in your team.
As part of your planning, think about long-term staffing needs. You may want to combine overseas hiring with apprenticeships, licence upgrades or internal promotions. Hiring from abroad is just one part of a broader recruitment strategy.
Don’t forget to consider logistics around cabotage regulations if you’re operating across borders. While UK immigration handles visas, EU road rules still apply to foreign-registered vehicles and international journeys.
You’ll also want to review your HGV insurance cover before bringing in overseas staff. Vehicle use, journey types, and driver profiles can all affect what’s covered, and the cost of your insurance premiums.
And of course, keep your operator’s licence details up to date. Any change in your operating model, staffing or safety processes must be reflected in your licence records.
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Sign upFrequently asked questions
What are the visa options for international HGV drivers in the UK?
The Skilled Worker visa is the most common route for international HGV drivers. It allows them to work in the UK if sponsored by a registered employer. Other options, like temporary visas, are more limited and often tied to seasonal work.
How can haulage firms become visa sponsors?
You’ll need to apply to the Home Office for a sponsor licence. The process includes submitting business documents, paying a fee and agreeing to meet compliance duties. Once approved, you can assign Certificates of Sponsorship to overseas drivers.
Is recruiting HGV drivers from abroad worth the effort?
Many fleets find it’s worth the time and cost, especially when local recruitment isn’t enough. You’ll need to plan carefully, but bringing in overseas drivers can support long-term growth and reduce empty vehicle time.
What documents do international drivers need to work in the UK?
They’ll need a valid passport, visa, and licence (with any required UK conversions). You’ll also need to complete a right to work check before they start. Some drivers may require additional permits depending on where they’ve trained.
How long does it take to bring a foreign HGV driver onboard?
It can take 2–3 months from start to finish. This includes sponsor licence application, issuing the Certificate of Sponsorship, and visa processing. Planning ahead helps keep your schedules on track when hiring a truck driver from abroad.
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