UK childcare and nursery jobs with free visa sponsorship in 2025 are now open to international candidates who are passionate about early childhood development.
With nurseries and childcare centers across the United Kingdom facing staff shortages, many are offering fully sponsored work opportunities to qualified foreign applicants. This includes visa assistance, training, and in some cases, subsidized accommodation.
Childcare roles offer a fulfilling and meaningful career path for those who love working with infants and toddlers.
You don’t need a university degree to apply. With the right experience or certifications, you can legally migrate to the UK, gain employment in a nursery or daycare center, and grow your career within the education or social care sectors.
This comprehensive guide explains how to qualify for nursery jobs, which employers are sponsoring in 2025, the visa requirements, salary expectations, and where to find verified openings.
Why UK Childcare Providers Are Hiring International Workers in 2025
1. Shortage of Qualified Early Years Staff
The UK’s early years sector is currently facing a significant staffing crisis. With more parents returning to work and early education gaining priority, there’s an increased demand for nursery staff, but not enough trained professionals locally to fill the roles.
2. Government Funding and Nursery Expansion
The UK government has expanded funding for early years education, including 15–30 hours of free childcare for working parents. This has increased enrolment in nurseries, leading to a surge in hiring needs.
3. Inclusion of Childcare in Skilled Worker Visa Pathway
Several childcare-related roles have been included in the Shortage Occupation List, enabling UK employers to legally sponsor foreign workers under the Skilled Worker Visa program.
4. Multi-Cultural Workforce Policies
Many UK childcare providers support global hiring as part of their diversity and inclusion policies. This creates a welcoming environment for international professionals.
What Types of Childcare and Nursery Jobs Are Available?
1. Nursery Assistant
Entry-level role supporting the daily operations of a nursery
Helping children with meals, hygiene, nap time, and play
No formal qualification required (training provided)
2. Nursery Practitioner / Early Years Educator
Works directly with children aged 0–5
Delivers early learning activities based on the EYFS framework
Requires Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in childcare
3. Room Leader
Oversees a specific room or age group within the nursery
Supervises other assistants and manages daily planning
Needs strong experience and leadership skills
4. SEN Support Assistant
Provides tailored care to children with special educational needs
Supports speech, mobility, sensory or behavioral development
5. Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager
Responsible for overseeing operations and compliance
Usually requires a diploma or degree in Early Years Education
Who Can Apply for UK Nursery Jobs with Visa Sponsorship?
Basic Eligibility:
Age 18+
Valid international passport
Physically and emotionally fit to work with young children
Basic English speaking and comprehension skills
Police clearance or child protection certificate from home country
Preferred or Required (Depending on Role):
Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Childcare or Early Years Education
Previous work experience in a daycare, preschool, or school
First Aid and safeguarding training (can be completed post-arrival)
IELTS UKVI (for visa if applicable)
Note: Entry-level roles like Nursery Assistant may not require formal qualifications if training is offered. Practitioner and management roles usually do.
Visa Pathway for Childcare and Nursery Workers
The primary route is the Skilled Worker Visa, which allows employers to sponsor qualified foreign staff for long-term employment.
Skilled Worker Visa Highlights:
Must have a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
Salary must meet minimum threshold (typically £20,960/year)
Visa valid for up to 5 years
Allows for visa renewal and eventual permanent residency
Dependents (spouse and children) can apply to join you
Top Hiring Settings for Childcare Jobs
1. Private Day Nurseries
Operate year-round with multiple rooms based on age
Higher salary potential and modern facilities
2. Pre-Schools
Attached to primary schools or church/community groups
Follow UK’s EYFS early learning curriculum
3. Nursery Schools (Maintained by Local Authorities)
Publicly funded, more structured academic programs
Often provide training and professional development
4. Childcare Charities
Non-profit organizations supporting vulnerable or low-income families
Roles often focus on inclusion, SEN, and family support
Salary Expectations for Childcare Staff in the UK (2025)
| Job Title | Hourly Rate (£) | Monthly Salary (£) | Annual Salary (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursery Assistant | £10.50 – £12.00 | £1,700 – £2,000 | £20,500 – £24,000 |
| Nursery Practitioner | £11.00 – £13.00 | £1,800 – £2,200 | £22,000 – £26,500 |
| Room Leader | £12.50 – £15.00 | £2,100 – £2,600 | £25,000 – £31,000 |
| Deputy Nursery Manager | £14.00 – £16.50 | £2,400 – £2,900 | £28,000 – £35,000 |
| SEN Support Assistant | £11.50 – £13.50 | £1,900 – £2,300 | £23,000 – £27,000 |
Overtime, holiday bonuses, and shift premiums may apply depending on employer.
Free Visa Sponsorship and Benefits
✅ Visa Costs and Application Support
Most sponsors cover the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Some cover visa application fees or reimburse post-arrival
✅ Accommodation Support
Free or subsidized shared housing available for many roles
Locations near the nursery or school
Utilities and internet sometimes included
✅ Free Training
Safeguarding, First Aid, EYFS framework training included
Some roles offer paid apprenticeships or sponsorship for Level 3 qualifications
✅ Relocation Package
Airport pick-up or transport support
Starter packs including SIM cards, bedding, and essentials
Top UK Employers Offering Nursery Sponsorship in 2025
1. Busy Bees Nurseries
One of the UK’s largest private nursery chains
Has previously recruited international staff with sponsorship
2. Bright Horizons
Offers childcare in cities across England, Scotland, and Wales
Known for structured career paths and international recruitment
3. Kiddi Caru Day Nurseries
Sponsoring roles across London and the South East
4. Local Authority Maintained Nurseries
Limited sponsorship, but some in shortage areas offer support for SEN roles
5. International School Nurseries
Cater to expat families and often recruit globally
Where to Find Sponsored Nursery Jobs
Trusted Job Boards:
eTeach
NurseryWorldJobs.co.uk
Indeed UK
TotalJobs
Use keywords:
“Childcare visa sponsorship UK”
“Nursery assistant international applicants”
“Early years educator tier 2 sponsor”
Application Process – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare Documents
CV in UK format (clean, no gaps, child-focused experience)
Passport (valid 6+ months)
Police clearance certificate
Childcare qualifications or training certificates
IELTS or English test results (if required)
Two references
Step 2: Apply to Registered Sponsors
Check that salary and job responsibilities match visa guidelines
Step 3: Attend Interview (Virtual or In-Person)
Expect questions on safeguarding, child development, teamwork
Prepare examples of daily routines or how you’d respond to child behavior
Step 4: Receive Offer and CoS
Employer issues Certificate of Sponsorship through UKVI portal
Step 5: Apply for Skilled Worker Visa
Complete online application
Submit documents and attend biometrics appointment
Step 6: Relocate and Start Work
Receive visa (3–6 weeks processing time)
Employer may provide temporary housing upon arrival
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Take free online training in early childhood development
Join international childcare forums to network and learn
Use clear, parent-friendly language in your CV
Tailor your applications to each role (no copy-paste)
Emphasize patience, reliability, and love for children
Can These Jobs Lead to Permanent Residency in the UK?
Yes. Nursery and childcare jobs under the Skilled Worker Visa are eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years.
Requirements for ILR:
5 continuous years on a valid work visa
Proof of employment and income
Life in the UK Test passed
B1 level English proficiency
No legal or immigration violations
Once ILR is granted, you can apply for British citizenship after one more year.
People also read: UK School Support Staff Jobs with Visa Sponsorship – 2025
UK childcare and nursery jobs with free visa sponsorship in 2025 provide an excellent opportunity for compassionate and qualified individuals from abroad to build a meaningful career in early years education.
With competitive pay, employer-sponsored training, and legal pathways to residency, these roles offer more than just a job—they offer long-term stability and personal growth.
Whether you’re already working in childcare or seeking your first opportunity in the field, now is the time to take action.
Search verified roles, prepare your documents, and submit applications with confidence. The UK needs dedicated early years staff—and you could be next.
