Care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship (Health & Care Visa) are currently among the most in-demand roles for international job seekers looking to relocate and build a future in the United Kingdom. With the UK’s social care sector facing a historic staff shortage – over 150,000 vacancies and counting – employers are increasingly turning to skilled and compassionate workers from abroad to fill critical caregiving positions.
The introduction of the Health & Care Visa has opened the floodgates of opportunity, making it possible for non-UK citizens to legally work and live in the country, while contributing to one of the most vital services in society: caring for the elderly, disabled and vulnerable.
What sets care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship apart is their low barrier to entry and high value output. You don’t need to be a doctor or hold a university degree. If you have experience supporting others – be it professionally or even caring for a family member – you could qualify. That, paired with basic English skills and a passion for people, positions you as a strong candidate in a job market that desperately needs more hands on deck.
Whether you’re in Nigeria, India, the Philippines or Ghana, this opportunity can literally change the trajectory of your life – offering a legal work route, a solid salary and a pathway to permanent residency.
The UK government, fully aware of the growing crisis in adult social care, created the Health & Care Visa to speed up the international recruitment process while easing the transition for care workers. Unlike other work visas, the Health & Care Visa offers lower fees, no health surcharge, fast-track processing and a family-friendly route – your spouse and children can relocate with you. Employers across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are now offering care assistant jobs with visa sponsorship to qualified foreign applicants, with some even providing relocation assistance, accommodation and on-the-job training.
This isn’t just a job – it’s a new beginning.
For many applicants, care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship have become the most realistic, achievable and rewarding path to working abroad. With international demand for healthcare workers surging and care facilities under pressure to maintain quality support, skilled assistants who can bring empathy, dedication and consistency are being welcomed with open arms.
These aren’t just jobs where you clock in and clock out – they’re roles where you become a crucial part of someone’s everyday life, helping them eat, move, bathe and feel safe. And all of that comes with the bonus of building a better life in one of the most economically developed nations in the world.
Whether you’re currently a caregiver in your home country, a certified nursing assistant or someone with informal caregiving experience looking for a fresh start, care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship (Health & Care Visa) give you a direct pathway to achieve your relocation goals. This opportunity isn’t about luck – it’s about being prepared, knowing where to apply and understanding what’s required. As we unpack everything you need to know – from top companies hiring to step-by-step application tips – keep in mind that thousands of care workers are already making this move successfully. Your turn could be next.
The Health & Care Visa is a special category under the UK Skilled Worker route, designed specifically for healthcare professionals – including care assistants. It allows individuals to live and work in the UK legally and eventually apply for permanent residence if eligible.
Key Benefits of the Health & Care Visa:
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Fast-tracked application (as quick as 3 weeks)
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Lower visa fees than standard Skilled Worker visas
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No immigration health surcharge (you save £624 per year)
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Family members (spouse and children) can join you
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Pathway to settlement after 5 years
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Access to free healthcare and benefits (after eligibility)
The kicker? You don’t need a university degree to apply. If you’ve got experience in caregiving and a good grasp of English, you’re in the game.
Top Employers Offering Care Assistant Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
You don’t want just any job – you want the right one. Thankfully, there are dozens of licensed UK employers currently hiring international applicants. Below are top-tier organizations consistently offering care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship:
1. Bupa UK
A leading healthcare company with residential homes and assisted living facilities across England, Scotland and Wales. Bupa often sponsors international care assistants.
2. HC-One
One of the UK’s largest care home providers. They offer structured training, visa sponsorship and a pathway to permanent contracts.
3. Agincare
Actively recruiting overseas candidates and offering full relocation support under the Health & Care Visa. Known for strong onboarding programs.
4. Care UK
With more than 120 care homes nationwide, Care UK consistently posts care assistant jobs with visa sponsorship on their careers portal.
5. Helping Hands Home Care
Focused on domiciliary care, Helping Hands recruits international live-in carers and care assistants with visa support and training.
You can find even more care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship by browsing the official UK Government list of licensed sponsors.
Job Requirements for Care Assistant Roles with Visa Sponsorship
Now, let’s talk eligibility. Care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship do not require you to be a certified nurse, but employers are looking for a few critical things.
General Requirements:
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At least 1 year of caregiving experience (formal or informal)
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English language proficiency (IELTS 4.0 overall or equivalent)
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Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK licensed employer
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Criminal background check
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Medical clearance (e.g., TB test from an approved clinic)
Personal Traits:
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Compassion and patience
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Communication and empathy
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Ability to work under pressure
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Willingness to work flexible shifts
Even if your experience is from caring for a family member, many UK employers are open to that – especially when it’s combined with a relevant short course or caregiving certificate.
What Do Care Assistant Jobs in the UK Involve?
Everyday responsibilities of a care assistant in the UK revolve around ensuring the dignity and well-being of clients. You’ll support individuals with a variety of tasks, depending on their condition.
Typical Duties:
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Personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)
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Administering prescribed medication
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Meal preparation and feeding assistance
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Mobility support (wheelchairs, hoists)
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Light housekeeping and hygiene maintenance
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Companionship and emotional support
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Keeping records and reporting changes in condition
Whether you’re working in a care home or in community-based domiciliary care, your work matters. You’re not just filling a job role – you’re becoming a critical part of someone’s life.
Salary Expectations for Care Assistant Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
One of the most asked questions: How much will I earn? Good news – the pay is competitive and in many cases, it increases with experience or night/weekend shifts.
Typical Salary Range (as of 2025):
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£20,960 to £26,000 per year (entry level with sponsorship)
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Live-in care roles may offer £500–£800 per week
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Night shifts and weekends often come with bonus pay
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Overtime available at enhanced rates
And remember: no tuition fees, no license exams – you’re working, earning and living legally from day one under the Health & Care Visa.
How to Apply for Care Assistant Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
If you’re ready to begin, here’s how to get started with your application.
Step-by-Step Process:
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Search for jobs on portals like:
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Apply ONLY to employers offering visa sponsorship.
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Prepare your documents:
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CV/Resume tailored to caregiving
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Care certificate (if available)
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IELTS or English test result
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Passport and TB test result
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References and background check
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Once selected, the employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
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Use your CoS to apply for the Health & Care Visa through the UK Home Office site.
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Pay the visa fee (approx. £247 for up to 3 years)
- Attend your biometric appointment and wait for approval.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Care Assistant Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship (Health & Care Visa)
1. Can I apply for care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship if I don’t have formal caregiving qualifications?
Yes, you can apply for care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship even without formal qualifications. Many UK employers value hands-on experience – whether gained through family caregiving or informal work. However, having a care-related certificate or training (such as a basic health care assistant course) can greatly improve your chances of being selected and sponsored under the Health & Care Visa route.
2. What is the minimum salary for care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship?
To qualify for the Health & Care Visa, the minimum salary for care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship is £20,960 per year or £10.75 per hour. Some employers offer higher pay based on location, experience or shift patterns (e.g. night shifts or weekends). Live-in roles may offer even more, often £500–£800 per week including accommodation.
3. How long does it take to get a Health & Care Visa after receiving a job offer?
Once you receive a job offer and your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is issued by your UK employer, it typically takes 3 weeks to get your Health & Care Visa if you’re applying from outside the UK. This is much faster than most other work visa types, making care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship an attractive and efficient pathway.
4. Do I need to take the IELTS exam to apply for care assistant jobs with visa sponsorship in the UK?
Yes, you must prove your English language proficiency to qualify for the Health & Care Visa. This usually means passing IELTS for UKVI with a minimum overall score of 4.0 in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Alternatively, other approved English tests or qualifications taught in English can be accepted.
5. Will my employer cover visa costs for care assistant jobs with sponsorship in the UK?
Some UK employers do cover the visa application fees, including the Health & Care Visa fee and Certificate of Sponsorship costs. Others may provide partial support or expect candidates to pay upfront and reimburse later. It’s important to clarify sponsorship benefits before accepting a care assistant job offer in the UK with visa sponsorship.
6. Can I bring my family with me if I get a care assistant job in the UK through visa sponsorship?
Yes, the Health & Care Visa allows care assistants to bring their dependents, which includes a spouse/partner and children under 18. Your family members will have the right to work and study in the UK while you’re employed as a care assistant. This makes it a strong option for individuals looking to relocate with their family.
7. Is it possible to get permanent residency through care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship?
Absolutely. The Health & Care Visa is a Skilled Worker Visa pathway and it allows you to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) – also known as permanent residency – after five years of continuous work and residence in the UK. Many care assistants use this route to settle long-term and eventually apply for British citizenship.
8. Where can I find care assistant jobs in the UK that offer visa sponsorship?
You can find care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship on:
Make sure to search using terms like “visa sponsorship”, “Health & Care Visa” or “international applicants welcome”.
9. What documents do I need to apply for care assistant jobs in the UK with sponsorship?
To apply for care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship, you’ll typically need:
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Updated CV with caregiving experience
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Passport with at least 6 months validity
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English language test result (e.g., IELTS for UKVI)
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Caregiving certificates or training (if available)
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Police clearance certificate (background check)
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TB test results from an approved clinic
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Certificate of Sponsorship (from employer)
10. Do I need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) under the Health & Care Visa?
No, you don’t! One of the biggest benefits of applying for care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship under the Health & Care Visa is that you are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge, which saves you £624 per year. You’ll still have full access to NHS healthcare while living and working in the UK.