MckIf you have ever dreamt of working in the United Kingdom as a caregiver, this article is your complete guide. UK caregiver jobs with visa sponsorship are currently in high demand, especially for international workers with passion, experience, and basic training in health and social care. Many employers across the UK are now actively hiring foreign workers due to the growing need for caregivers, especially in care homes, private households, and supported living facilities.
The good news is that several reputable UK companies are offering sponsorship for overseas applicants. This includes Tier 2 Visa sponsorship, now officially called the Skilled Worker Visa, which allows qualified foreign nationals to work in the UK legally. This opportunity not only opens doors for career growth but also allows you to migrate to the UK without paying for a work permit yourself.
Why the UK Needs Caregivers
The UK is experiencing a critical shortage of caregivers, especially in areas such as elderly care, disability support, and palliative care. According to the UK Home Office and NHS reports, over 165,000 care positions are currently vacant across England, Wales, and Scotland. This gap in workforce supply has led many companies to seek caregivers from abroad and sponsor their work visas.
One of the reasons behind this shortage is the aging population. As people live longer, they require consistent and personalized support in their daily lives. From meal preparation to bathing, medication, companionship, and household chores, caregivers are now more essential than ever.
Who Can Apply for UK Caregiver Jobs?
You do not need a university degree to qualify for most caregiver roles in the UK. However, you should:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have at least a high school certificate
- Speak basic English fluently
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Have a clean criminal background
- Hold an international passport
- Possess caregiver experience or training (formal or informal)
Some companies will train you on the job, while others require NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care. You should also be willing to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
If you meet these conditions, you can apply for jobs that offer visa sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker route.
Some companies also assist with accommodation, flight costs, and local integration support, making them attractive for international applicants. Searching for UK healthcare visa sponsorship, caregiver Tier 2 visa jobs, or live-in caregiver roles with visa will help you find the most recent offers online.
Let’s now explore the top cities that need caregivers and the companies currently sponsoring foreign workers.
Top Cities in the UK Where Caregivers Are Needed
Caregiver jobs are available throughout the United Kingdom. However, some cities and regions have a higher demand than others due to their aging population and the number of care homes in operation.
Here are the top cities you should consider:
1. London
As the capital city, London has thousands of care facilities, private households, and home care agencies constantly seeking staff. Caregivers in London are paid more due to the high cost of living.
Average salary: £23,000 to £28,000 per year
Hourly rate: £10.50 – £13.00
Visa options: Tier 2 Skilled Worker Visa
2. Manchester
Manchester is another hotspot for health and social care jobs. The city offers a mix of urban convenience and relatively affordable living, making it ideal for new migrants.
Average salary: £21,000 to £26,000 per year
Hourly rate: £10.42 – £12.50
3. Birmingham
Birmingham is one of the most diverse cities in the UK, with many care homes employing foreign workers. It also has excellent public transport and housing options for immigrants.
Average salary: £20,800 to £25,000 per year
Hourly rate: £10.42 – £11.75
4. Leeds
Leeds, located in West Yorkshire, has numerous elderly care facilities and live-in caregiver roles. The demand is especially high in the city’s suburbs.
Average salary: £21,000 – £25,500
Hourly rate: £10.50 – £12.00
5. Glasgow and Edinburgh
These two Scottish cities are growing hubs for international caregivers. With generous sponsorship schemes and welcoming communities, they are top choices for many.
Average salary: £21,000 – £24,000
Visa support: Fully available under UK immigration worker schemes
UK Companies Offering Caregiver Visa Sponsorship
Here is a list of well-known UK employers that sponsor work visas for caregiver positions. These companies often post vacancies on platforms like UK Government Jobs Portal, Indeed, and TotalJobs.
1. Agincare
Agincare is one of the most popular companies offering caregiver jobs with visa sponsorship in the UK. They provide care in clients’ homes and care homes and also offer relocation support.
Location: Nationwide
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Benefits: Training, accommodation assistance, visa support, free uniform
2. Helping Hands Home Care
Helping Hands is a top-rated care agency providing live-in and visiting care services across the UK. They regularly hire international candidates with caregiving experience.
Location: England and Wales
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Salary: £23,000 – £27,000
3. A1 Care
Based in Bournemouth, A1 Care offers comprehensive visa sponsorship and even runs a training school for international applicants. They help new hires with travel, accommodation, and certification.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Salary: £22,000+
Extra support: Training and resettlement package
4. Elysium Healthcare
Elysium Healthcare provides care for individuals with mental health conditions and learning disabilities. They sponsor skilled workers for various caregiving roles.
Location: Nationwide
Salary: £24,000 – £28,000
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
5. Cera Care
Cera Care is a digital-first care company that uses technology to manage clients and staff. They often list caregiver jobs with sponsorship for international applicants.
Location: London, Manchester, and other major cities
Salary: £22,000 – £26,000
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
6. HC-One
HC-One operates care homes across the UK and is known for hiring overseas caregivers. Their jobs often come with relocation help and visa support.
Location: Over 300 care homes in the UK
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Salary: £21,000 – £26,000
How to Apply for UK Caregiver Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
To successfully apply for a caregiver role in the UK, follow these steps:
- Prepare Your CV: Use a UK-style CV format, highlighting your caregiving experience, soft skills, and certifications.
- Apply Online: Use platforms like Indeed UK, NHS Jobs, and UK Government Find a Job.
- Contact Employers Directly: Many companies list their open roles on their websites.
- Attend Interviews: Most interviews are done online through Zoom or Skype.
- Secure Job Offer: The employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) once you’re selected.
- Apply for Skilled Worker Visa: Use the CoS to apply through the UK Home Office visa website.
- Get Ready to Move: After approval, book your flight and start preparing to relocate.
Benefits of Working as a Caregiver in the UK
- Legal UK residency under the Skilled Worker Visa
- Pathway to permanent residency and British citizenship
- Health insurance under NHS
- Opportunity to bring dependents (spouse and children)
- Weekly and monthly salaries paid into a UK bank account
- Overtime pay and holiday bonuses
- Career development opportunities
Many people start as caregivers and later become nurses, senior carers, or managers in health and social care.
What to Watch Out For
Because of the high demand, scams are increasing. Always verify companies and job offers through the UK government’s official list of licensed sponsors. Do not pay large sums of money to agents promising jobs. A legitimate company will offer you a contract, and most will only require basic visa fees payable directly to the UK Home Office.
UK caregiver jobs with visa sponsorship are one of the most accessible and legal ways for foreigners to work abroad. With salaries ranging between £20,800 and £28,000 per year, healthcare benefits, and career progression, it is a golden opportunity for those passionate about helping others.
If you have experience caring for the elderly, disabled, or patients with health needs, start applying today. Focus on companies offering Tier 2 visa sponsorship, prepare your documents, and search job platforms consistently. The demand is growing every month, and thousands of people from Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe are already taking advantage of these openings.
Mck