Another angle and quite insightful, thanks for sharing.

mizGene:

Sponsorship is priority. However, I would balk at committing to a company for 5 years because I believe there will be better opportunities and also considering the financial visa app implications.

I would ask comp A to reduce COS to 2 years and give financial burden as reason, I think any reasonable employer should allow this. That way you get on the ILR journey asap without having to spend so much, and you can move companies later without feeling like you have wasted funds.

mizGene:

Sponsorship is priority. However, I would balk at committing to a company for 5 years because I believe there will be better opportunities and also considering the financial visa app implications.

I would ask comp A to reduce COS to 2 years and give financial burden as reason, I think any reasonable employer should allow this. That way you get on the ILR journey asap without having to spend so much, and you can move companies later without feeling like you have wasted funds.

The best way to go although I will suggest three years. You only have to pay the extra IHS for one year. The visa fee is same
It gives you an extra one year to plan well and just two years before you are eligible for ILR.

DOK987:
Hey people, if anyone is interested in getting some items from Nigeria delivered in 2 weeks time, feel free to let me know. My friend is coming and has two 23kg free luggage boxes (not bringing much because she wants to do bulk shopping). If you need anything (must be bought by her in supermarket, stores etc.. , she will not be accepting pre-packed items from your family or friends) just send the list and you will only need to make payment when your goods are delivered to you in UK ( serious and genuine people only should reply, no time wasters or fraud thanks).

I have just sent a pm to you

Hello guys.

I had a job from nov 2022 till date. PS its my first and only job in uk.

Now from nov 2022 to april 2023 my salary is not up to 12k. But within these months, i paid tax of about 100+ in feb,100+ in march and 80+ in apr 2023.

On the hmrc site it says i paid 0 pounds which i assume is the correct thing.

But my employers took taxes from me according to my payslips.

I feel i should have the feb,march and apr taxes refunded by now or could i be wrong?

Lordfiido:


The best way to go although I will suggest three years. You only have to pay the extra IHS for one year. The visa fee is same
It gives you an extra one year to plan well and just two years before you are eligible for ILR.

Yes, you are right. 3yrs makes the most sense

Knowlegeseeking:
My people,

Thank you for helping me stay on track with my ACCA and audit career.

Please come out and help me with taking this decision.

I have 2 jobs offers. One with the audit firm (company A) i currently work with on a part time basis (unto 20hrs limit) which is offering me 5 years sponsorship and another audit firm (company B) offering me 2 years fixed contract based on me going on a PSW visa route first, and subsequent sponsorship when i get chartered.

The second company is a top 15 audit firm here with very good pay and benefits. The one i currently work with is on the lower cadre of audit firms and the pay and benefit is not as good as the former.

For company A (sponsorship), i will bear the cost of Visa and IHS for the 5 years (9,086 with the going rate or 13,624 if the new rate is applicable by October). This calculation includes my spouse and I. There is the option of paying this cost overtime by direct deduction from my salary.

But if i go with going on the PSW first and finishing my exams, I only bear PSW costs (3,926 pounds with the current rate or 5,785 if the new rate is applicable by October). company B assures bearing all costs of sponsorship when we get to that bridge.

I have considered career trajectory, interests, work-life balance, proximity, etc, and the company B tick more boxes.

In your honest opinion, please tell me what the best choice will be.

Thank you.

This is tough but a good problem to have. I would go with Company A, get my PSW, get my ACCA and switch to Company B and get my Tier-2.

If you don't think you can get your ACCA soon enough, then it's easier, Company A

Knowlegeseeking:
I understand, but for career growth, working with company B is far more rewarding. And even if they refuse to sponsor after, i would be chartered by then and it wouldn't be difficult to get a job.

These are the only 2 companies i have applied and interviewed for. Or maybe i should put in more applications. However, time is no longer on my side as my visa expires November.

You can start with A with or without the sponsorship and switch to B later.

kwakudtraveller:

Company B. Sponsorship isn’t everything. Company A not covering your Visa fee doesn’t sit right with me. If they had offered that they pay for it and deduct out of your salary, that would have been better. Like someone said, ensure company B puts it in writing. Also, you don’t have to stay with company B for the whole of 2 years, being with a top firm improves your prospects for other companies. Just ensure that you get chartered as soon as you can. Best of luck.

In this UK? Sponsorship is everything o! You literally need it to remain here. Company A offered to deduct the Sponsorship fees from her pay na. Join a Company that is willing to give you COS. She can always switch to Company B or like you said, other bigger firms

Knowlegeseeking:
My people,

Thank you for helping me stay on track with my ACCA and audit career.

Thank you.

The decision you're facing is a complex one, balancing both short-term and long-term considerations. Here's a breakdown of the factors you've mentioned and some thoughts to guide your decision:

1. **Job Quality & Career Growth**:
- **Company A**: A lower-tier audit firm where you currently work part-time. It might offer more familiarity and continuity, but potentially less exposure to larger, more complex audits, and potentially slower career growth.
- **Company B**: A top 15 audit firm with a better reputation, presumably more extensive client exposure, and likely better opportunities for career progression.

2. **Compensation & Benefits**:
- **Company A**: Offers a lower salary and benefits package.
- **Company B**: Provides a significantly better pay and benefits package.

3. **Sponsorship & Visa Costs**:
- **Company A**: Provides 5 years of sponsorship. However, you bear the full cost of the Visa and IHS, which can be spread over time.
- **Company B**: Recommends the PSW visa route initially. They commit to covering sponsorship costs later, but this comes with the inherent risk of potential policy changes or the company's situation changing in the next 2 years.

4. **Job Security**:
- **Company A**: The 5-year sponsorship might offer a sense of job security, but it's crucial to understand any conditions or stipulations attached.
- **Company B**: The 2-year fixed contract offers a shorter period of certainty, but if you get chartered and they honor their commitment, this can change.

5. **Personal and Professional Goals**:
- **Company A**: Continuity and perhaps more immediate stability, but potentially slower career growth.
- **Company B**: Better alignment with your career aspirations, work-life balance, and other personal criteria.

**Considerations**:
- **Financials**: Even though Company B offers better pay and benefits, factor in the potential costs (and the stress associated with them) if for some reason they do not sponsor you later.

- **Stability vs. Growth**: Company A offers immediate stability with its 5-year sponsorship. Company B offers better growth prospects, but with the condition of sponsorship in the future.

- **Risk**: All decisions have inherent risks. With Company B, the risk is the potential of not getting sponsorship later, though they currently commit to it.

Given the factors above, if you are risk-averse and value immediate stability, Company A might be the safer bet. However, if you are more focused on long-term career growth, better compensation, and are willing to bet on yourself getting chartered and Company B following through on their commitment, then Company B seems to be the better choice, especially since it aligns better with many of your criteria.
_copied_

Knowlegeseeking:
My people,

Thank you for helping me stay on track with my ACCA and audit career.

Thank you.

The decision you're facing is a complex one, balancing both short-term and long-term considerations. Here's a breakdown of the factors you've mentioned and some thoughts to guide your decision:

1. **Job Quality & Career Growth**:
- **Company A**: A lower-tier audit firm where you currently work part-time. It might offer more familiarity and continuity, but potentially less exposure to larger, more complex audits, and potentially slower career growth.
- **Company B**: A top 15 audit firm with a better reputation, presumably more extensive client exposure, and likely better opportunities for career progression.

2. **Compensation & Benefits**:
- **Company A**: Offers a lower salary and benefits package.
- **Company B**: Provides a significantly better pay and benefits package.

3. **Sponsorship & Visa Costs**:
- **Company A**: Provides 5 years of sponsorship. However, you bear the full cost of the Visa and IHS, which can be spread over time.
- **Company B**: Recommends the PSW visa route initially. They commit to covering sponsorship costs later, but this comes with the inherent risk of potential policy changes or the company's situation changing in the next 2 years.

4. **Job Security**:
- **Company A**: The 5-year sponsorship might offer a sense of job security, but it's crucial to understand any conditions or stipulations attached.
- **Company B**: The 2-year fixed contract offers a shorter period of certainty, but if you get chartered and they honor their commitment, this can change.

5. **Personal and Professional Goals**:
- **Company A**: Continuity and perhaps more immediate stability, but potentially slower career growth.
- **Company B**: Better alignment with your career aspirations, work-life balance, and other personal criteria.

**Considerations**:
- **Financials**: Even though Company B offers better pay and benefits, factor in the potential costs (and the stress associated with them) if for some reason they do not sponsor you later.

- **Stability vs. Growth**: Company A offers immediate stability with its 5-year sponsorship. Company B offers better growth prospects, but with the condition of sponsorship in the future.

- **Risk**: All decisions have inherent risks. With Company B, the risk is the potential of not getting sponsorship later, though they currently commit to it.

Given the factors above, if you are risk-averse and value immediate stability, Company A might be the safer bet. However, if you are more focused on long-term career growth, better compensation, and are willing to bet on yourself getting chartered and Company B following through on their commitment, then Company B seems to be the better choice, especially since it aligns better with many of your criteria.

_copied_

Immigration policies can change unexpectedly.

I recall a friend who had a dilemma: he had a job offer from Amazon that paid nearly £95k annually but without sponsorship. In contrast, another company offered him less than £50k but with full sponsorship. He ultimately chose the company that provided sponsorship.

Regarding the professional exam you mentioned, is it realistic to complete it within the given timeframe? Keep in mind that the sponsorship from the larger company is contingent upon it.

Lastly, how is your relationship with your current line manager or supervisor? A challenging manager can make the work environment quite difficult, especially if you're considering staying long-term.

To the gurus in the house pls I need an urgent reply I was able to book Monday for my TB text and I was sent a messages that they've received my bookings but I need to make a payment before the booking is valid and have made a transfer to IOM Chartered Standard account and have also messaged them since yesterday but am yet to hear from them,should I wait till that Monday and go there with the booking printout and payment confirmation or what should I do.....Thanks in advance

You guys are the best to be honest. Very insightful contributions from @Solumtoya, @Mzgene, @bigtt76, @Koonbey and Kwakudtraveller @Lordfiido

Schoolhike, you have aptly summarized all points. I will get chartered in a year time surely. Just few papers left.

Honestly, Company B does it for me. Proximity to work and all. it costs about 15 pounds daily to get to company A by train and just 2 quid to company by bus. Also, I am tired of the work as it is not as challenging as i would want and my line manager can be a handful.

I believe that once i am chartered i can always get a company to sponsor me as i have quite a number of them reach out for interviews and all. so i am not even banking on sponsorship from company B. I will try and negotiate with company B again.

Schoolhike:
Immigration policies can change unexpectedly.

I recall a friend who had a dilemma: he had a job offer from Amazon that paid nearly £95k annually but without sponsorship. In contrast, another company offered him less than £50k but with full sponsorship. He ultimately chose the company that provided sponsorship.

Regarding the professional exam you mentioned, is it realistic to complete it within the given timeframe? Keep in mind that the sponsorship from the larger company is contingent upon it.

Lastly, how is your relationship with your current line manager or supervisor? A challenging manager can make the work environment quite difficult, especially if you're considering staying long-term.

woffie:
To the gurus in the house pls I need an urgent reply I was able to book Monday for my TB text and I was sent a messages that they've received my bookings but I need to make a payment before the booking is valid and have made a transfer to IOM Chartered Standard account and have also messaged them since yesterday but am yet to hear from them,should I wait till that Monday and go there with the booking printout and payment confirmation or what should I do.....Thanks in advance

Go there on the day of your appointment with your appointment confirmation, proof of payment and your international passport.

You mean go with company B and switch to PSW? I will finish my ACCA under 2 years.

Solumtoya:


This is tough but a good problem to have. I would go with Company A, get my PSW, get my ACCA and switch to Company B and get my Tier-2.

If you don't think you can get your ACCA soon enough, then it's easier, Company A

Is he happy now with his decision?

Schoolhike:
Immigration policies can change unexpectedly.

I recall a friend who had a dilemma: he had a job offer from Amazon that paid nearly £95k annually but without sponsorship. In contrast, another company offered him less than £50k but with full sponsorship. He ultimately chose the company that provided sponsorship.

Regarding the professional exam you mentioned, is it realistic to complete it within the given timeframe? Keep in mind that the sponsorship from the larger company is contingent upon it.

Lastly, how is your relationship with your current line manager or supervisor? A challenging manager can make the work environment quite difficult, especially if you're considering staying long-term.

Solumtoya:


In this UK? Sponsorship is everything o! You literally need it to remain here. Company A offered to deduct the Sponsorship fees from her pay na. Join a Company that is willing to give you COS. She can always switch to Company B or like you said, other bigger firms

I think the fear of not getting sponsorship with an employer gets people tied up with smaller roles but I get you. Your advise to ask for 2 years instead of 5 makes sense.

Knowlegeseeking:
My people,

Thank you for helping me stay on track with my ACCA and audit career.

Please come out and help me with taking this decision.

I have 2 jobs offers. One with the audit firm (company A) i currently work with on a part time basis (unto 20hrs limit) which is offering me 5 years sponsorship and another audit firm (company B) offering me 2 years fixed contract based on me going on a PSW visa route first, and subsequent sponsorship when i get chartered.

The second company is a top 15 audit firm here with very good pay and benefits. The one i currently work with is on the lower cadre of audit firms and the pay and benefit is not as good as the former.

For company A (sponsorship), i will bear the cost of Visa and IHS for the 5 years (9,086 with the going rate or 13,624 if the new rate is applicable by October). This calculation includes my spouse and I. There is the option of paying this cost overtime by direct deduction from my salary.

But if i go with going on the PSW first and finishing my exams, I only bear PSW costs (3,926 pounds with the current rate or 5,785 if the new rate is applicable by October). company B assures bearing all costs of sponsorship when we get to that bridge.

I have considered career trajectory, interests, work-life balance, proximity, etc, and the company B tick more boxes.

In your honest opinion, please tell me what the best choice will be.

Thank you.

with the way UK is unstable with immigration policies, my suggestion is to go with company A which is willing to give you COS immediately. Sometimes we make decisions not based on immediate cost but on the long term. No matter the ranking for company A you are already in the UK with the requisite professional experience to move later to a dream company of your choice any day.

My issue with company B is that tomorrow they can say there is a change in company policy and may not be willing to sponsor again. Don't be carried away by some companies' promises, most times they just want to fill the vacancy urgently and do not give a damn even a year later. Unless you can get written evidence ( solid one) where they categorically state and confirm they are going to sponsor. This was an issue with a friend of mine, she started with this organisation that promise to sponsor later, then after her probation ended and she reminded them, she was asked to produce the email correspondence where it was stated. That was her saving grace. But then what if UK changes policies again that creates more barriers for companies? You need to think through all this.

Goke7:


with the way UK is unstable with immigration policies, my suggestion is to go with company A which is willing to give you COS immediately. Sometimes we make decisions not based on immediate cost but on the long term. No matter the ranking for company A you are already in the UK with the requisite professional experience to move later to a dream company of your choice any day.

My issue with company B is that tomorrow they can say there is a change in company policy and may not be willing to sponsor again. [b]Don't be carried away by some companies' promises, most times they just want to fill the vacancy urgently and do not give a damn even a year later. [/b]Unless you can get written evidence ( solid one) where they categorically state and confirm they are going to sponsor. This was an issue with a friend of mine, she started with this organisation that promise to sponsor later, then after her probation ended and she reminded them, she was asked to produce the email correspondence where it was stated. That was her saving grace. But then what if UK changes policies again that creates more barriers for companies? You need to think through all this.

💯

The bolded is often harsh reality, especially if the role came via a recruiter cos some of them can lie make all sorts of promises to sell the role.

Such promises should ideally be written into the contract or offer letter to make it legally binding.

Hamof:



Go there on the day of your appointment with your appointment confirmation, proof of payment and your international passport.

Thanks I appreciate

Chat GPT response

Schoolhike:


The decision you're facing is a complex one, balancing both short-term and long-term considerations. Here's a breakdown of the factors you've mentioned and some thoughts to guide your decision:

1. **Job Quality & Career Growth**:
- **Company A**: A lower-tier audit firm where you currently work part-time. It might offer more familiarity and continuity, but potentially less exposure to larger, more complex audits, and potentially slower career growth.
- **Company B**: A top 15 audit firm with a better reputation, presumably more extensive client exposure, and likely better opportunities for career progression.

2. **Compensation & Benefits**:
- **Company A**: Offers a lower salary and benefits package.
- **Company B**: Provides a significantly better pay and benefits package.

3. **Sponsorship & Visa Costs**:
- **Company A**: Provides 5 years of sponsorship. However, you bear the full cost of the Visa and IHS, which can be spread over time.
- **Company B**: Recommends the PSW visa route initially. They commit to covering sponsorship costs later, but this comes with the inherent risk of potential policy changes or the company's situation changing in the next 2 years.

4. **Job Security**:
- **Company A**: The 5-year sponsorship might offer a sense of job security, but it's crucial to understand any conditions or stipulations attached.
- **Company B**: The 2-year fixed contract offers a shorter period of certainty, but if you get chartered and they honor their commitment, this can change.

5. **Personal and Professional Goals**:
- **Company A**: Continuity and perhaps more immediate stability, but potentially slower career growth.
- **Company B**: Better alignment with your career aspirations, work-life balance, and other personal criteria.

**Considerations**:
- **Financials**: Even though Company B offers better pay and benefits, factor in the potential costs (and the stress associated with them) if for some reason they do not sponsor you later.

- **Stability vs. Growth**: Company A offers immediate stability with its 5-year sponsorship. Company B offers better growth prospects, but with the condition of sponsorship in the future.

- **Risk**: All decisions have inherent risks. With Company B, the risk is the potential of not getting sponsorship later, though they currently commit to it.

Given the factors above, if you are risk-averse and value immediate stability, Company A might be the safer bet. However, if you are more focused on long-term career growth, better compensation, and are willing to bet on yourself getting chartered and Company B following through on their commitment, then Company B seems to be the better choice, especially since it aligns better with many of your criteria.

_copied_

Zahra29:


💯

The bolded is often harsh reality, especially if the role came via a recruiter cos some of them can lie make all sorts of promises to sell the role.

Such promises should ideally be written into the contract or offer letter to make it legally binding.

the recruiters just wants to make their cut and move on immediately, no time

Knowlegeseeking:
You guys are the best to be honest. Very insightful contributions from @Solumtoya, @Mzgene, @bigtt76, @Koonbey and Kwakudtraveller @Lordfiido

Schoolhike, you have aptly summarized all …

You can give it a shot anyway.

I did the same, got care sponsorship before my tier 4 expired, did not go for it, paid for psw for myself and spouse, and less than 1 months after psw, got data job and rest is history, now with job that could sponsor while spouse also on job that could sponsor.

Sometimes taking risk could eventually worth it.

And you are much more satisfied in life by following your instincts, especially the ones your mind is most interested in.

("Numerous studies and historical accounts suggest that following one's instincts, especially those passions that deeply resonate with us, can lead to greater satisfaction in life. The Self-Determination Theory, posits that actions rooted in our genuine interests result in higher satisfaction and overall well-being. Historical figures, across various domains, have also attested to the fulfillment they achieved by trusting their intuition. Furthermore, cultural aphorisms like 'Follow your heart' or 'Trust your gut' underline this universal sentiment. Surveys on happiness consistently indicate that those who align their careers and activities with their passions report higher life satisfaction. Hence, there's substantial evidence, both empirical and anecdotal, suggesting that listening to our intrinsic motivations can be the key to a more fulfilling life." _copied_

bigtt76:
Chat GPT response

Definitely 😉

Knowlegeseeking:
You guys are the best to be honest. Very insightful contributions from @Solumtoya, @Mzgene, @bigtt76, @Koonbey and Kwakudtraveller @Lordfiido

Schoolhike, you have aptly summarized all points. I will get chartered in a year time surely. Just few papers left.

Honestly, Company B does it for me. Proximity to work and all. it costs about 15 pounds daily to get to company A by train and just 2 quid to company by bus. Also, I am tired of the work as it is not as challenging as i would want and my line manager can be a handful.

I believe that once i am chartered i can always get a company to sponsor me as i have quite a number of them reach out for interviews and all. so i am not even banking on sponsorship from company B. I will try and negotiate with company B again.

Ultimately the decision is yours to make. When you make the decision, own it with your chest. This is actually a test of the kind of person you are..are you a high risk, high reward individual or stability, low reward one. I didn't see you talk about kids, that would have made the decision making process more complex. I somewhat believe you have sort of made up your mind which to go with. As they say..'Fortune favors the brave'. I pray that what ever decision you make, it brings fulfilment to you and your family.

Although, this forum has been really motivating and a contributing factor in some decision making by having lots of different perspectives on a subject matter.

Thank you!!!.

Schoolhike:


You can give it a shot anyway.

I did the same, got care sponsorship before my tier 4 expired, did not go for it, paid for psw for myself and spouse, and less than 1 months after psw, got data job and rest is history, now with job that could sponsor while spouse also on job that could sponsor.

Sometimes taking risk could eventually worth it.

And you are much more satisfied in life by following your instincts, especially the ones your mind is most interested in.

("Numerous studies and historical accounts suggest that following one's instincts, especially those passions that deeply resonate with us, can lead to greater satisfaction in life. The Self-Determination Theory, posits that actions rooted in our genuine interests result in higher satisfaction and overall well-being. Historical figures, across various domains, have also attested to the fulfillment they achieved by trusting their intuition. Furthermore, cultural aphorisms like 'Follow your heart' or 'Trust your gut' underline this universal sentiment. Surveys on happiness consistently indicate that those who align their careers and activities with their passions report higher life satisfaction. Hence, there's substantial evidence, both empirical and anecdotal, suggesting that listening to our intrinsic motivations can be the key to a more fulfilling life." _copied_

Thank you Santa. I don't have kids yet.

I have not made up my mind though. Analysing every suggestions made.

This is a tough one.

Santa2:


Ultimately the decision is yours to make. When you make the decision, own it with your chest. This is actually a test of the kind of person you are..are you a high risk, high reward individual or stability, low reward one. I didn't see you talk about kids, that would have made the decision making process more complex. I somewhat believe you have sort of made up your mind which to go with. As they say..'Fortune favors the brave'. I pray that what ever decision you make, it brings fulfilment to you and your family.

Has anyone used gig to send something from nigeria to uk before, are they reliable?

Or please who has reliable shipper that can ship from nigeria to uk?

I get one question o. I’m on the lookout for an outside IR35 role and I have noticed that a lot of the roles dey ask for DV clearance. Is it necessary for me to have lived here for 5 years to qualify, or is there a way around it? I no come understand.

Please anybody living in London around SW should put it me through. I went to see a friend of mine at the deptford last week, and I went there with my car from Birmingham. today now I received a letter on congestion charging ( penalty charge notice) £180 , this is strange to me because I was not pack on the road neither taking a bus lane. I strictly follow the Speed limit seen on the road within the 20Mile per hour. I reached the venue before I stopped the car. moreover, my friend is new in London, he lodge in Airbnb with his wife. Is it possible for me to challenge charge by writing them back.

Knowlegeseeking:
Is he happy now with his decision?

He’s happy that he’s on sponsorships.

But not happy that he’s getting low pay as a result of sponsorship