UK caregiver visa sponsorship program – no degree required is one of the most searched terms among individuals looking to work in the United Kingdom in 2025.
And for good reason. The UK is in dire need of care workers to support its aging population, and the government has created a visa pathway that allows foreign nationals without a university degree to legally live and work in the UK.
Even better, many of these jobs come with full visa sponsorship, free accommodation, and relocation assistance.
If you’re someone with compassion, patience, and a willingness to care for others, this opportunity could be your gateway to a better life.
This article covers everything you need to know: eligibility, job responsibilities, top recruiting employers, how to apply, and life as a caregiver in the UK.
Why the UK Needs Caregivers in 2025
The demand for caregivers in the United Kingdom continues to rise as the nation grapples with a growing elderly population and a shortage of local care workers. In 2024 alone, the UK Health and Care Worker Visa saw over 70,000 applicants.
For 2025, the UK government has extended the inclusion of care workers on the Shortage Occupation List — a move that makes it easier for employers to sponsor foreign nationals.
What Is the UK Caregiver Visa?
The Health and Care Worker Visa allows individuals from outside the UK to work in eligible health and social care jobs with an approved UK employer.
For caregiver roles, no degree is required, and the visa process has been streamlined to fast-track critical care positions.
Key benefits include:
- Visa sponsorship from UK employers
- No university degree required
- Pathway to permanent residency
- Ability to bring family members
- Free or subsidized accommodation
Eligible Caregiver Job Titles in the UK
As of 2025, the following job titles are eligible under the caregiver visa route:
- Care Assistant
- Home Care Worker
- Nursing Home Assistant
- Support Worker (Mental Health)
- Residential Support Worker
- Personal Care Assistant
These jobs do not require a university degree. However, employers often look for candidates with a basic education, prior caregiving experience, or certifications like First Aid or Manual Handling.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Caregiver in the UK
Before applying, it’s important to understand what the job entails. Typical caregiver responsibilities include:
- Assisting clients with daily tasks (bathing, dressing, grooming)
- Helping with mobility and transfers
- Administering medications (as trained)
- Providing companionship and emotional support
- Preparing meals and assisting with feeding
- Monitoring patient health and reporting changes
- Supporting clients with dementia or physical disabilities
Who Can Apply for the UK Caregiver Visa Sponsorship Program?
You can apply if you meet the following criteria:
- Aged 18 or older
- Have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor
- Meet the English language requirement (Level B1 IELTS or equivalent)
- Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- TB test results (depending on your country of origin)
- Clean criminal record
Educational qualification: No degree is required. Some employers accept candidates with secondary school certificates and on-the-job experience.
Top Countries Supplying Caregivers to the UK
The UK welcomes care workers from many countries, including:
- Nigeria
- India
- Ghana
- Kenya
- South Africa
- Zimbabwe
- Philippines
- Pakistan
Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship for Caregivers (2025)
Here are some UK-based care providers that actively sponsor international candidates:
1. A1 Care
Location: Bournemouth, UK
Offers: Sponsorship, training, and relocation support
2. Agincare
Location: Nationwide
Offers: Visa sponsorship, accommodation, training
3. Cera Care
Location: England & Scotland
Offers: Sponsorship and fast-track visa assistance
4. Allied Healthcare
Location: Various locations across the UK
Offers: Sponsorship and competitive pay
5. Helping Hands Home Care
Location: England
Offers: Visa sponsorship, in-house training
How to Apply for Caregiver Jobs in the UK (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your CV in the UK Format
- Personal details (name, contact, nationality)
- Work experience in caregiving
- Skills: empathy, communication, reliability
- Certifications: First Aid, Manual Handling, Health & Safety
Step 2: Search for Jobs Offering Sponsorship
Use websites like:
- UK Government Job Portal (gov.uk)
- NHS Jobs
- CareHome.co.uk
- Indeed UK (filter for “visa sponsorship”)
Search terms to use:
- “Care assistant jobs with visa sponsorship”
- “Live-in carer UK with free accommodation”
Step 3: Apply Directly to Employers
Submit your application along with a cover letter and any relevant certificates. Ensure your CV reflects caregiving experience even if it’s from family or volunteer work.
Step 4: Pass the Interview
Many interviews are conducted online. Be prepared to discuss:
- Why you want to work as a caregiver
- Your previous caregiving experiences
- Your ability to handle emotional and physical tasks
Step 5: Receive Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once offered a job, the employer will provide a CoS – this is required for your visa application.
Step 6: Apply for the Health and Care Worker Visa
Documents required:
- Valid passport
- CoS reference number
- Proof of English proficiency
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
- Criminal record certificate
Visa fee: Reduced to £232 for health and care workers
Salary & Benefits for Caregivers in the UK
- Starting salary: £20,960 to £26,200 per year
- Weekly hours: 39-48 hours, overtime possible
- Accommodation: Often provided or subsidized
- Paid holiday: 28 days annually (including public holidays)
- Health insurance: Free under NHS
- Permanent residency: Eligible after 5 years
Real-Life Example: Mary from Kenya
Mary, a 28-year-old from Nairobi, applied for a caregiver role through Agincare. She had two years of volunteer experience with elderly care.
After an online interview, she received a job offer, sponsorship, and free accommodation for the first six months. Today, she works in Bristol and plans to bring her spouse to the UK under the dependent visa.
Challenges You May Face (And How to Overcome Them)
- Cultural adaptation: Attend orientation sessions and language classes.
- Long hours: Ensure you’re mentally and physically prepared.
- Emotional stress: Seek support from colleagues and community groups.
- Weather: Prepare for the UK climate; it’s colder and rainier than many countries.
Can I Bring My Family with Me?
Yes! You can bring dependents:
- Spouse or partner
- Children under 18
Dependents are allowed to work or study in the UK.
FAQs: UK Caregiver Visa Sponsorship
Q: Is IELTS mandatory?
Yes, you must prove English proficiency (Level B1).
Q: Is experience compulsory?
Some employers accept newcomers. However, having experience improves your chances significantly.
Q: How long does it take to get the visa?
Processing typically takes 3-8 weeks once all documents are submitted.
Q: Can I switch employers once in the UK?
Yes, but the new employer must also be a licensed sponsor and provide a new CoS.
Q: Is training provided?
Yes, many employers offer in-house training before you begin.
The UK caregiver visa sponsorship program – no degree required is a golden opportunity for individuals who want a meaningful, stable job abroad without the burden of academic qualifications.
With the UK’s growing need for caregivers and the government’s support for overseas recruitment, 2025 is the perfect time to make your move.
If you’re ready to change your life, help others, and start a career that truly matters, now is the time to act. Update your CV, apply boldly, and take the first step toward working in the UK as a caregiver.
Disclaimer: Always verify employer legitimacy and never pay money upfront for a job offer. Use only government-approved platforms or well-established care providers.
