Your guide to hiring employees in United Kingdom, covering the employment
landscape, working customs, and local labor laws.
Navigating the UK’s employment landscape for the first time can be challenging, particularly with its detailed labour laws and strong worker protections. Whether you’re onboarding independent contractors or leveraging an Employer of Record (EOR) service, understanding the local employment framework is essential for a smooth and compliant hiring process.
Our comprehensive guide provides the insights you need to hire local talent or relocate team members with confidence.
An EOR acts as a legal employer on your behalf, managing the hiring process, payroll, and compliance with the UK’s labour laws and tax requirements. By using an EOR, you can streamline operations and focus on building your team while ensuring full regulatory compliance.
The UK is a major global business hub with strong trade connections to Europe, North America, and Asia.
The UK has a highly educated workforce, particularly in industries such as finance, technology, healthcare, and creative industries.
The UK offers a stable economy, competitive corporate tax rates, and strong legal protections for businesses and employees.
Standard working hours in the UK are regulated by the Working Time Regulations 1998:
The UK has a statutory National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW), which are reviewed annually:
Probation periods in the UK depend on the contract type and job role:
Employees in United Kingdom entitled to:
Full-time employees are entitled to a minimum of 28 days of paid annual leave per year, including bank holidays. Many employers offer additional leave.
The UK has 8 bank holidays in England and Wales, 9 in Scotland, and 10 in Northern Ireland.
Eligible employees can take up to 52 weeks of maternity leave. The first 6 weeks are paid at 90% of salary, followed by 33 weeks at a statutory rate (£172.48 per week as of 2024), with the remaining 13 weeks unpaid.
Fathers or partners are entitled to 2 weeks of paid paternity leave at a statutory rate.
Parents can share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of statutory pay.
Employees receive Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if they are ill for 4 or more consecutive days:
Paid at £109.40 per week (as of 2024) for up to 28 weeks.
Employers may offer enhanced sick pay through contracts.
A medical certificate is required after 7 consecutive days of illness.
