Yes, you can legally work two jobs in the UK. However, whether you are allowed depends on your visa type, work hours limit, and employment contract. Many people in the UK work multiple jobs to increase their income, but foreign workers must follow immigration rules carefully.
Is It Legal to Work Two Jobs in the UK?
Yes, UK law allows people to work more than one job. This is called:
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Second job
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Part-time second job
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Multiple employment
British citizens and permanent residents can work unlimited jobs.
However, visa holders must follow specific restrictions.
Rules for Foreign Workers on Skilled Worker Visa
If you have a Skilled Worker visa, you can work a second job only under certain conditions.
You can work a second job if:
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It is in the same occupation code as your main job, OR
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It is on the UK Shortage Occupation List
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You work no more than 20 hours per week in the second job
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The second job is outside your main job hours
If the second job does not meet these conditions, you must apply to update your visa.
Rules for International Students in the UK
Students can also work two jobs, but total hours are limited.
During term time:
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Maximum 20 hours per week (total from both jobs combined)
During holidays:
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You can work full-time
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You can work multiple jobs without hourly limit
Example:
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Job 1: 12 hours/week
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Job 2: 8 hours/week
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Total: 20 hours/week (allowed)
But working 25 hours total is not allowed during study periods.
Rules for UK Citizens and Permanent Residents
If you are:
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British citizen
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Permanent resident
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Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) holder
You can work:
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Unlimited jobs
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Unlimited hours
There are no legal restrictions.
Do You Need Permission From Your Main Employer?
Sometimes, yes.
Check your employment contract. Some employers include clauses such as:
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No second job allowed
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Must inform employer
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Cannot work for competitors
Always review your contract before taking another job.
Tax Rules for Working Two Jobs in the UK
If you work two jobs, you must pay tax on both incomes.
Important points:
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Your main job uses your tax-free Personal Allowance (£12,570 per year)
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Second job is usually taxed fully (no tax-free allowance)
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Tax is automatically deducted through PAYE system
You do not pay double tax, but your second income may have higher deductions.
National Insurance Contributions (NIC)
If you earn enough in both jobs, National Insurance may be deducted from each employer.
This helps fund:
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Pension
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Healthcare (NHS)
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Social benefits
Common Second Jobs in the UK
Many foreign workers and students work second jobs such as:
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Warehouse worker
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Delivery driver
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Restaurant staff
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Cleaner
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Care assistant
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Retail assistant
These jobs offer flexible hours.
Benefits of Working Two Jobs in the UK
Advantages include:
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Higher monthly income
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Faster savings
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More work experience
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Better career opportunities
Many migrants use second jobs to manage living costs.
Risks of Working Two Jobs Without Permission
If you violate visa conditions, consequences can include:
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Visa cancellation
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Deportation
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Future visa rejection
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Employer penalties
Always follow your visa rules.
Example: Skilled Worker With Second Job
Main job salary: £30,000/year
Second job (part-time): £8,000/year
This is legal if:
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Second job is under 20 hours/week
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Job is eligible under visa rules
How to Legally Start a Second Job
Follow these steps:
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Check your visa conditions
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Review your employment contract
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Ensure total hours are within limits
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Inform employer if required
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Provide your National Insurance number
Final Answer: Can You Work Two Jobs in the UK?
Yes, you can work two jobs in the UK. British citizens and permanent residents have no restrictions. Foreign workers and students can also work multiple jobs, but must follow visa rules and hourly limits.
Always check your visa conditions and employment contract before starting a second job.