For years the UK care worker visa was the most popular route for African and Asian applicants. That changed on 22 July 2025, when the UK closed new overseas recruitment for care workers (SOC 6135) and senior care workers (SOC 6136).
What this means
- UK care providers can no longer sponsor people from abroad for these roles.
- Any “care worker visa job” advertised to people overseas in 2026 is very likely a scam, especially if it asks for money.
Who can still work in care
There is a transition period until 22 July 2028. People already in the UK on sponsored work visas can usually switch into, or extend in, care roles, subject to conditions such as working for their current sponsor for at least three months. After that the codes are expected to be removed altogether.
Read also: Nurse Jobs in the UK with Health and Care Visa Sponsorship: 2026 Guide
Routes that are still open
- Registered nurses via the Health and Care visa, after NMC registration.
- Allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists, radiographers, occupational therapists and pharmacists, in graduate-level roles.
- Social workers, after Social Work England registration.
- Doctors via GMC registration.
2026 rules in brief: since 22 July 2025, most Skilled Worker jobs must be at graduate level (RQF 6) and pay at least £41,700 a year or the occupation’s “going rate”, whichever is higher. Some roles have lower rates, such as new entrants, Health and Care roles, and jobs on the Temporary Shortage List, which runs until at least the end of 2026. Always check the current figures on GOV.UK before you apply.
Protect yourself
Many people lost money in 2023–2025 buying fake or worthless Certificates of Sponsorship. Before paying anyone anything:
- Check the employer on the official Register of Licensed Sponsors.
- Remember that charging a worker for a CoS is illegal.
- Verify any job directly with the employer using contact details from its official website.
Frequently asked questions
Can senior carers still apply from abroad?
No. Senior care worker (6136) roles were also closed to new overseas recruitment from 22 July 2025.
I already work in UK care. Can I change employers?
Generally yes during the transition period to July 2028, provided you meet the conditions. Check GOV.UK for your situation.
Is Ireland an alternative?
Ireland still issues General Employment Permits for healthcare assistants and home carers, with a minimum salary of €32,691 from March 2026.
Information checked in October 2026. Immigration rules change often, so always confirm the latest requirements on the official government website before applying or paying any fees.
