Law firms in London are actively hiring top-tier Australian and New Zealand lawyers.

Why Australian & NZ Lawyers Are in High Demand in London

• Financial centre momentum: London’s legal market remains strong post-Brexit and post-Covid, driving recruitment for high-calibre lawyers. [chadwicknott.co.uk]
• Preference over lateral UK hires: Hiring partners trust candidates from respected firms in Australia or NZ, perceiving them as having impeccable academic and professional backgrounds.

Visa Routes to London

• Tier 5 Youth Mobility Visa: Offers easy entry for Australian and New Zealand citizens. Permanent work options: UK firms can sponsor through Skilled Worker visas, Ancestry Visas, or Permanent Leave to Remain. 

Compensation Insights

• Competitive exchange rates: NZD/AUD to GBP exchange rates enhance London salary value.
• Salary benchmarks: Newly qualified lawyers in a Magic Circle firm can start from £110K, while US top-tier firms offer around £145K. 
  Experience alignment: Lawyers with 2 PQE in Australia/NZ are often accepted at NQ level in London, maintaining strong remuneration.

Practice Areas in High Demand

• Transactional focus: M&A, private equity, funds, and banking & finance roles are particularly sought after.
• Specialist opportunities: There’s growing interest in real estate finance, litigation, tech transactions, and corporate insurance. 

Ideal Candidate Profile

• High-performing backgrounds: Stellar academic records and experience in top-tier Australian or New Zealand firms are highly attractive.
• Strategic timing: London firms, especially during hiring seasons, welcome overseas talent, navigating post-Covid and post-Brexit smoothly. 

Conclusion

London remains a prime destination for skilled Australian and New Zealand lawyers. With strong visa pathways, competitive salaries and clear demand in key practice areas, this is an excellent time to explore a move. Contact us today to begin your London career journey.