If you’re considering moving to the UK and working in the care sector, you’re not alone. Care jobs in the UK are in high demand, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted just how essential care workers are.
For foreigners hoping to work in the UK, the good news is that many care homes and healthcare providers offer visa sponsorship to help meet the growing need for staff.
In this post, I’ll walk you through what care jobs are available, how visa sponsorship works, and the best ways to find a care job in the UK as a foreign applicant.
What Are Care Jobs?
Care jobs usually involve helping people who need support with daily tasks. This can include the elderly, people with disabilities, or individuals recovering from illness or surgery. Some common job titles in this field include:
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Care Assistant
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Support Worker
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Home Care Worker
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Healthcare Assistant (HCA)
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Live-in Carer
Duties often involve personal care (like washing and dressing), preparing meals, administering medication, and offering companionship. It’s a role that requires patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others.
Can Foreigners Get Care Jobs in the UK?
Yes, they can—and many do. The UK government has added care workers to the Shortage Occupation List, which means there’s a recognized shortage of staff in this field. As a result, employers are allowed (and often encouraged) to hire foreign workers under the Skilled Worker visa scheme.
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To be eligible for visa sponsorship, you’ll usually need:
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A confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor foreign workers
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A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
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Proof of English proficiency (usually through an IELTS test)
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A minimum salary (currently around £20,960 per year for care workers)
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A clean criminal record and health check
Some employers may help you with relocation or even cover visa costs, though this varies.
How to Find Care Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
Here are a few practical ways to get started:
1. Use the UK Government’s Official Website
Visit the UK government’s list of licensed sponsors and search for care providers who are approved to sponsor skilled workers. This list is updated regularly and is a great place to start.
2. Job Boards
Many employers advertise care jobs with sponsorship on popular job websites. Try searching for keywords like “care assistant visa sponsorship” or “support worker sponsorship UK” on:
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Indeed.co.uk
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Totaljobs
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Carehome.co.uk
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NHS Jobs (jobs.nhs.uk)
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Adzuna
Be sure to filter for jobs that specifically mention “visa sponsorship.”
3. Apply Directly to Care Companies
Large care home chains like:
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HC-One
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Bupa Care Homes
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Four Seasons Health Care
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Agincare
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Helping Hands Home Care
…often recruit international staff. Visit their websites and check their careers pages for current openings.
4. Recruitment Agencies
Some UK-based recruitment agencies specialize in placing foreign care workers. Examples include:
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Elysium Healthcare
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Hays Healthcare
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1 Care
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Pearson Anderson
Make sure to choose agencies with a good reputation—avoid anyone asking for payment to “guarantee” you a visa.
What Qualifications or Experience Do You Need?
While formal qualifications aren’t always required for entry-level care jobs, having some relevant experience or training can be a big plus. Employers typically look for:
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Basic English communication skills
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A caring and responsible attitude
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Experience in caregiving (either paid or unpaid)
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First aid or health & social care certificates (can often be gained online)
Some companies provide full training upon hiring, especially for live-in care roles.
Final Thoughts
If you’re passionate about helping others and looking for a meaningful job in the UK, working in the care sector might be a great fit. With the ongoing demand for care workers and a simplified visa process, now is a good time to explore opportunities.
The key is to do your research, apply strategically, and be cautious of scams. Look for employers with a history of sponsoring workers, and don’t hesitate to ask questions during the application process.