The global shift toward remote work has opened doors for talent from all over the world, making it easier than ever for international professionals to tap into job markets like the United Kingdom without relocating immediately. Among the most promising areas for international applicants are online accounting jobs and virtual assistant roles. These positions not only offer competitive pay but also allow flexibility and growth, even if you're starting with limited experience.
Whether you're a recent graduate, a freelancer seeking international clients, or a professional looking to build a UK-based career, understanding how to approach these opportunities is essential.
Why Accounting Roles Are in High Demand
The UK has seen a significant increase in the demand for qualified accounting professionals, especially as businesses adapt to remote operations and cloud-based finance systems. Companies now outsource many of their financial functions to reduce costs and gain access to skilled international talent. This creates a prime opportunity for remote accountants, bookkeepers, and finance professionals.
With small and medium-sized businesses forming the backbone of the UK economy, the need for part-time and freelance accounting support continues to grow. This trend is a boon for international applicants who can offer services remotely and still contribute significantly to a UK-based team.
Types of Remote Accounting Jobs
Whether you’re just starting or already have experience, there are a wide range of accounting roles you can explore:
- Bookkeeper
Manage daily transactions, reconcile accounts, and prepare financial reports. - Payroll Officer
Handle payroll processing, tax calculations, and ensure compliance with UK employment laws. - Accounts Receivable/Payable Clerk
Manage invoices, track payments, and maintain vendor and client records. - Management Accountant
Provide financial insights, budget forecasts, and performance analysis to guide business decisions. - Tax Preparer
Assist UK clients with tax filings, VAT returns, and HMRC compliance. - Financial Analyst
Analyze data to improve financial strategies, budgeting, and investment decisions.
Each of these roles offers opportunities for remote work and freelance contracts, especially with businesses seeking part-time or project-based support.
Top Platforms to Find UK-Based Accounting Jobs
Securing a remote accounting job is easier when you know where to look. Here are some reputable platforms that connect international professionals with UK clients:
- Upwork
Offers countless job postings for freelance accountants and financial consultants. - PeoplePerHour
UK-focused freelancing site perfect for finding part-time accounting work. - Freelancer
Global platform that includes plenty of job listings targeting UK clients. - Remote.co
A curated list of remote job opportunities, including accounting roles. - LinkedIn
Use advanced filters to find UK-based remote positions. Make sure your profile is optimized for visibility. - Indeed UK
Look for remote accounting positions with filters for work-from-home and international applicants.
To maximize your success, tailor your profile and proposals to highlight UK-relevant experience or certifications, even if you're applying from overseas.
How to Get Hired with No UK Experience
You don’t need a UK address or previous UK-based job to land your first online accounting role. Here’s how to make yourself stand out:
1. Highlight Transferable Skills
Even if your work experience is in a different country, skills like financial reporting, ledger management, and payroll systems are globally recognized. Demonstrate how your past roles relate to the one you’re applying for.
2. Gain Recognized Certifications
Certifications boost credibility. These entry-level and intermediate options are ideal:
- AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting
- ACCA Foundations in Accountancy
- QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification
- Xero Certified Advisor
Most of these can be completed online, and they signal to UK clients that you're serious and qualified.
3. Build a Digital Portfolio
Create simple case studies or sample spreadsheets to showcase your work. Include real or simulated:
- Profit & loss reports
- Balance sheets
- Tax calculations
- Payroll summaries
This can be hosted on Google Drive, a personal website, or as attachments in your proposals.
Visa Sponsorship for Accounting Professionals
While most freelance accounting jobs don’t require you to live in the UK, some remote positions can evolve into full-time roles that offer sponsorship.
Pathway to Sponsored Roles
- Start by freelancing remotely for UK companies.
- Build a strong reputation and long-term relationships.
- When a client is ready to expand, they may consider full-time employment and sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa (Tier 2).
Sectors Most Likely to Sponsor
- Accounting & Financial Services Firms
- Consulting Agencies
- Tech Startups with Finance Teams
- Healthcare and Education Institutions
Look for job descriptions that mention phrases like:
- “Sponsorship available”
- “Right to work in the UK or visa support”
- “Remote now, onsite later”
Don’t be discouraged by initial freelance work. Many remote professionals eventually move to the UK through employer-sponsored opportunities after proving their value.
What a Virtual Assistant Does
A virtual assistant (VA) is a remote professional who provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to businesses, entrepreneurs, and executives. In the UK, the demand for skilled VAs has grown sharply, especially among startups, e-commerce brands, and solopreneurs who need cost-effective support.
Common VA responsibilities include:
- Managing calendars and scheduling appointments
- Email and inbox organization
- Customer service support
- Social media and content scheduling
- Data entry and CRM management
- E-commerce store management (e.g., Shopify, Etsy, Amazon)
With minimal equipment and a strong internet connection, you can start offering these services to UK-based clients from anywhere in the world.
Benefits of Working as a Virtual Assistant in the UK Market
Remote assistant roles offer a range of advantages for international applicants:
1. Consistent Global Demand
The UK’s dynamic business environment fuels a steady need for remote admin support. Many small businesses and solo founders prefer hiring international VAs for their affordability and flexibility.
2. High Earning Potential
Skilled VAs can charge hourly or retainer-based fees, especially when offering specialized services like email marketing, customer support, or social media management.
3. Flexible Hours
Many UK clients allow flexible schedules as long as deadlines are met and communication is consistent. This makes VA roles ideal for applicants in different time zones.
4. Minimal Barrier to Entry
Unlike technical jobs, VA roles don’t require a formal degree. What matters more is your organizational ability, attention to detail, and commitment to providing excellent service.
Best Sites for Finding UK-Based Virtual Assistant Jobs
To begin your VA career, you need access to trusted job boards and platforms. Here are some of the best places to find reliable UK clients:
- Time Etc
A UK-based agency that hires VAs for long-term roles. Applicants must pass a thorough vetting process but enjoy steady work. - Virtalent
Another UK-centric VA company focused on matching professionals with business owners. They prefer applicants with prior experience but offer support for training. - Belay
Offers flexible virtual assistant roles and is open to international candidates who meet their criteria. - Upwork & Fiverr
Global freelance marketplaces where you can set up a VA profile and pitch to UK-based clients. Include “UK Virtual Assistant” in your gig title for better visibility. - Remote OK
A remote jobs board that regularly posts admin and assistant roles open to global applicants.
Use filters like “remote,” “work from home,” or “international applicants welcome” to narrow down suitable listings.
Starting with No Experience: Tips for Beginners
Breaking into the virtual assistant world without prior experience is entirely possible with the right approach. Here’s how to get started:
1. Take Quick Online Courses
A few short certifications can give your profile a professional boost:
- Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Gmail)
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Trello, Asana, or Monday.com project tools
- Canva for social media and design tasks
- CRM basics (e.g., HubSpot, Salesforce)
Free or low-cost courses from Coursera, Udemy, or Google Digital Garage can help you get started.
2. Offer Initial Free or Discounted Services
When starting out, offering free trial tasks or discounted hourly rates can help you secure your first few clients. Focus on delivering excellent service so you can request testimonials and build your profile.
3. Build a Personal Brand
Create a simple website or a LinkedIn profile that showcases:
- Your services
- Sample work
- Client testimonials
- Contact options
Use this as a tool to pitch to clients on freelance platforms or in Facebook groups dedicated to UK entrepreneurs.
4. Join Virtual Assistant Communities
Participating in VA forums and Facebook groups can connect you to UK-based clients directly. Some popular groups include:
- UK Virtual Assistants Network
- Freelance VAs & Social Media Managers
- Women in Business UK
Pathway to Long-Term Employment & Visa Options
Though virtual assistant work is typically freelance, long-term client relationships can eventually lead to full-time employment opportunities.
1. Building Long-Term Relationships
By consistently providing value, you can transition from project-based gigs to retainer clients. Many UK business owners seek dependable support and may offer full-time roles after a probationary period.
2. Scaling Into a VA Agency
Once you’ve gained enough experience and clients, you can subcontract work to other VAs and build your own mini-agency. This approach not only boosts income but also improves your credibility with high-paying UK businesses.
3. Finding Employers Open to Sponsorship
While rare, some larger UK companies may be open to sponsoring skilled VAs who handle high-level administrative, marketing, or project management tasks. Look for jobs labeled:
- “Remote now, UK office later”
- “International applicants accepted”
- “Work visa support available”
Being proactive in expressing your long-term interest in working for the company can improve your chances of being considered for a sponsored role.
Conclusion
The UK job market offers an abundance of opportunities for international applicants in the fields of accounting and virtual assistance. With the growth of remote work, geographical barriers have become less important than skills, consistency, and professionalism.
To recap:
- Accounting roles offer clear progression paths, even with no UK experience.
- Virtual assistant roles are highly accessible and offer flexible entry points.
- By building a portfolio, gaining certification, and leveraging trusted job platforms, you can create a sustainable online career connected to the UK market.
- Over time, strong client relationships can lead to full-time roles and visa sponsorship options.
Your journey may begin with a single freelance project, but with persistence and the right strategies, it can evolve into a rewarding international career.