Are there UK care jobs offering visa sponsorship?

Yes, there are UK visa sponsorship care jobs available, especially in the healthcare and social care sectors. The UK has been facing a growing demand for healthcare workers, particularly in roles like care assistants, nurses, and support workers. As a result, many employers are offering visa sponsorship to qualified foreign workers to fill these positions. Here are key details:

1. Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship:

• Employers in the UK can sponsor international candidates for a Skilled Worker visa if they are offering a job in an eligible occupation and are licensed to sponsor visas.

• Care workers, nursing assistants, and other roles in healthcare often fall under this category due to the shortage of local workers in the sector.

2. Health and Care Worker Visa:

• The Health and Care Worker visa is a specific visa category under the UK Skilled Worker visa designed for medical professionals, including care workers, nurses, and healthcare assistants.

• This visa offers several benefits, including:

o Reduced visa application fees.

o Faster visa processing times.

o Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

3. Eligible Roles:

Common roles in the care sector that are eligible for visa sponsorship include:

• Care assistants / Care workers: Provide personal care and assistance to individuals in care homes or private residences.

• Healthcare assistants: Assist in hospitals or clinics, working under the supervision of medical professionals.

• Nursing staff: Nurses and senior care workers are also in high demand, especially in elderly care settings.

4. Shortage Occupation List:

Many care roles are listed on the UK's Shortage Occupation List. Jobs on this list are prioritized for visa sponsorship, as there is a recognized need for more workers in these roles. As of now, care workers, nursing assistants, and related positions are included in this list, making it easier for employers to sponsor visas.

5. Requirements for Visa Sponsorship:

• Job offer: You must have a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid Sponsor License.

• Salary: The job must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the UK government (typically around £20,480 or higher, depending on the role).

• English proficiency: You must meet the English language requirements.

• Relevant qualifications: Depending on the role, some positions might require prior training or qualifications in healthcare or social care.

6. Examples of Employers Offering Sponsorship:

• NHS (National Health Service): The NHS regularly recruits foreign healthcare workers and provides sponsorship for care assistant and nursing roles.

• Private care homes: Many care homes in the UK, such as Bupa, HC-One, and Care UK, offer sponsorship to qualified candidates for care roles.

• Agencies and recruitment firms: Some recruitment agencies specialize in finding international care workers and facilitating the sponsorship process.

7. Application Process:

• Apply for a job: First, you need to apply for jobs that specifically state they offer visa sponsorship. You can find such job listings on platforms like NHS Jobs, Indeed, or directly through care home websites.

• Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS): If the employer agrees to sponsor you, they will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, which is essential for your visa application.

• Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa or Health and Care Worker Visa: Using your COS, you can apply for the appropriate visa, allowing you to work in the UK legally.

In summary, there are many UK care jobs that offer visa sponsorship, particularly in the healthcare and social care sectors. With the increasing demand for care workers, especially due to the aging population, the UK government has made it easier for employers to sponsor foreign workers in these roles.