Looking to work as a caregiver in the UK? Discover top caregiver jobs with visa sponsorship in 2026, salary details, eligibility, and step-by-step application guide for international applicants.
The United Kingdom continues to face a growing demand for skilled and compassionate caregivers. With an ageing population and a rising number of individuals requiring support in care homes, private residences, and healthcare settings, the UK government and care employers have expanded visa sponsorship opportunities for foreign workers under the Health and Care Worker Visa route.
For many international applicants, becoming a caregiver in the UK is not just a job—it’s a life-changing opportunity. These roles come with stable income, the chance to gain permanent residency, and the ability to bring dependents. Whether you’re an experienced care worker or looking to start a new career, caregiving is now one of the easiest and most in-demand jobs to secure in the UK with visa sponsorship.
In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to know about caregiver jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship in 2026—including where to find jobs, eligibility requirements, how to apply, and the benefits of this career path.
Key Highlights
- 🇬🇧 The UK has a major shortage of caregivers across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- 💼 Thousands of employers are offering visa sponsorship through the Health and Care Worker Visa.
- 💷 Caregiver salaries range from £20,960 to £26,200+ annually, depending on experience and role.
- 👩⚕️ Roles include care assistants, support workers, live-in carers, home care aides, and senior care workers.
- 🛂 Route offers fast-tracked visa processing, no IELTS for some countries, and a pathway to permanent residency.
Who is a Caregiver in the UK?
A caregiver in the UK, also known as a care assistant or support worker, helps vulnerable individuals—such as the elderly, disabled, or those with mental health needs—live safely and comfortably. Caregivers provide personal care, companionship, medication assistance, meal preparation, mobility support, and light housekeeping.
Caregiver jobs can be based in:
- Care homes or nursing homes
- Clients’ private homes (domiciliary or live-in care)
- Community support settings
- Hospitals or rehabilitation centres
Benefits of Caregiver Jobs with UK Visa Sponsorship
Choosing a caregiver role in the UK as a foreign worker comes with many advantages, including:
- Free or discounted visa application processing
- Minimum annual salary of £20,960, or £10.75 per hour
- Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Dependents (spouse and children) allowed
- Pathway to permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years
- Flexible work schedules and in-demand skills for future career growth
Top Employers Offering UK Caregiver Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Here are some well-known UK care providers and agencies offering visa sponsorship to international applicants:
1. Agincare UK
One of the largest care providers in England, offering residential, domiciliary, and live-in care with international recruitment.
📍 Website: www.agincare.com
2. Helping Hands Home Care
They provide live-in and visiting care and sponsor overseas workers with or without previous UK experience.
📍 Website: www.helpinghands.co.uk
3. A1 Care
Specializes in international recruitment of live-in carers and support workers.
📍 Website: www.a1care.co.uk
4. Eden Care
Actively recruits foreign caregivers for home care support in London and surrounding areas.
📍 Website: www.edencareatservice.co.uk
5. NHS Trusts
Some NHS-affiliated care organisations and community healthcare settings also recruit international carers under the Health and Care Worker Visa.
📍 Website: www.jobs.nhs.uk
Job Responsibilities of a Caregiver
As a caregiver, your daily tasks may include:
- Assisting with personal hygiene (bathing, grooming, toileting)
- Helping with mobility and transfers
- Administering or reminding clients about medications
- Preparing meals and supporting nutritional needs
- Companionship and emotional support
- Housekeeping duties such as cleaning, laundry, or shopping
- Documenting care notes and reporting changes in condition
You must be patient, empathetic, physically fit, and able to work flexible shifts, including weekends and nights in some cases.
Eligibility Criteria for Caregiver Jobs in the UK
To apply for a caregiver job in the UK with visa sponsorship, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor
- Meet the salary threshold (£20,960 or £10.75/hour)
- Pass an enhanced DBS check (criminal record)
- Prove English language proficiency (CEFR B1 or IELTS 4.0+, unless exempt)
- Provide TB test results (if from listed countries)
- Have relevant experience or training (formal qualification not always required)
How to Apply for Caregiver Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Update Your CV in UK Format
Ensure your CV includes:
- Personal details and contact information
- A professional summary
- Work experience (including volunteer work or caregiving for family)
- Education and training
- Certifications (e.g., First Aid, CPR, NVQ Level 2 or 3)
- References (if available)
Step 2: Search for Sponsoring Employers
Use these job portals to find caregiver roles offering visa sponsorship:
- UK Government Visa Sponsorship Jobs
- NHS Jobs Portal
- Total Jobs – Care Work
- Indeed UK – Search “Caregiver Visa Sponsorship”
- Care Home Jobs UK
Apply directly on the company websites or through trusted recruitment agencies.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Include a tailored cover letter expressing:
- Your passion for caregiving
- Relevant skills or experience
- Your willingness to relocate
- Your long-term commitment to work in the UK care industry
Step 4: Interview and Offer Letter
If shortlisted, you may be invited for a virtual interview. Be honest, polite, and confident. If selected, you’ll receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer.
Step 5: Apply for the Health and Care Worker Visa
Use the CoS to apply online through the UK Government Visa Application Portal.
You’ll need:
- Certificate of Sponsorship
- Valid passport
- Proof of English (if required)
- TB Test Results (from designated clinics)
- Police clearance
- Bank statement or proof of accommodation (if required)
Visa Fee: £247 (up to 3 years) or £479 (over 3 years)
Processing Time: 3–8 weeks (priority options available)
Salary Expectations for Caregivers in the UK
| Role | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Care Assistant (Entry-Level) | £20,960 – £22,000 | £10.75 – £11.50 |
| Live-in Carer | £25,000 – £30,000 | N/A (paid weekly) |
| Senior Support Worker | £26,000 – £28,500 | £12.50 – £13.50 |
| Specialist Caregiver | £28,000 – £32,000+ | £13.50 – £15.00 |
Salaries may also include free accommodation, weekly stipends, and mileage reimbursements for community carers.
Conclusion
If you’re passionate about making a difference in people’s lives, caregiver jobs in the UK offer a fulfilling and secure career path. With high demand, competitive pay, and clear immigration pathways, this is a golden opportunity for foreign applicants to start a new chapter in the UK.
Whether you have years of experience or simply a heart for helping others, the UK’s open arms and structured visa routes make it possible for you to live, work, and thrive in 2026 and beyond.
👉 Don’t delay! Update your CV, apply to trusted employers, and begin your caregiver journey to the UK today.
FAQs – Caregiver Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
1. Do I need experience to work as a caregiver in the UK?
While experience is preferred, many employers provide training for motivated candidates. Even informal caregiving (like caring for a family member) can be considered relevant.
2. Is IELTS required for the Health and Care Worker Visa?
Not always. If you’re from an English-speaking country or hold an approved degree taught in English, you may be exempt. Otherwise, a minimum IELTS score of 4.0 (General) is needed.
3. Can I bring my family with me on this visa?
Yes. You can bring your spouse/partner and children as dependents. They will also have the right to work or study in the UK.
4. How long can I stay in the UK as a caregiver?
The visa can last up to 5 years, with options to renew. After 5 years of lawful work, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
5. What’s the difference between live-in and domiciliary care?
Live-in carers stay in the client’s home, often working one-on-one. Domiciliary carers travel between homes, supporting multiple clients throughout the day.
