Has anyone ever been hired outside the UK (having applied online or via email)?

Or is it impossible?

I was hired while I was waiting for my spouse visa to be approved.  I applied from the US online, and did a phone interview after being shortlisted.  The job was offered on the condition that my spouse visa was approved in the end.  So, I won't say it's impossible, but I was waiting on a visa approval that would allow me to work in the UK upon arrival - I didn't need sponsorship from the employer.

I got my first job in the UK when I was still based in the US. Got approached by a recruiter thanks to a CV I forgot I had uploaded on a UK job website, got called in for an in-person interview after three over the phone including one at 04.30am, and was offered the job.  I didn't need a work permit, that probably went on my favour. 

So yes, it is possible.  Or was, anyway. 

Good luck. 

I was recently put through the process for a job in London, two phone interviews and early morning skypes. Did not get the job as there were 2 local candidates they were happy to continue the process with. So not impossible, just don't get ones hopes up. I have a feeling If I were there it'd be easier. However for the level of job I seek, hiring internationally is not unheard of. Plus I have the visa to back it up already, which helps.

@jagacharaja

Can you tell me the name of the UK job website you posted your resume?

And are there any job websites where I can post my CV that are specific to engineering?

Thanks!