getting a job in London (insurance, job market, taxes)

[abutayi]

I'm 19 years old, and I've decided to take some steps towards independence. Moving to and working in what's for me a foreign country seems pretty drastic, but I'm thinking that such an abrupt shift in lifestyle might do me some good. I've really become tired of the status quo.

Generally, how would you describe the job market in London for an American? I'm not looking for something especially fancy, mostly a chance to support myself somewhere else while leaving enough time to have a bit of fun. I've been to London, and know that it's very expensive, so I'm not sure that this is possible, but I thought that if I could get a job bartending in a popular club, for example, that would be able to pay my necessaries. Maybe there are job opportunities that I'm completely overlooking. If you have any suggestions at all, or maybe even some general advice, I'd appreciate it.

[richt71]

Hi,
I can see 2 problems for you. Firstly you need a work visa to work in the UK. I'm not sure you'll be allowed in for a bar job and I doubt they'll sponsor you.
The other problem with bar work in London is the pay. My mate works nights in a central london br but in addition to his regular job. Bar work generally pays £6-£7 per hour so I'd say you'll be lucky to earn £1000 a month before taxes (including national insurance). After tax you'll be looking at £780 a month. Accomodation in central London will be out of your price range so you'll need to travel. 1 bed appartment £400+ a month, council tax and other bills could be about £150 a month. So you can see it'll be tight.
What skills have you got? Maybe you could apply for a slightly more skilled job that will pay you a lot more and maybe sponsor you into the UK.