UK Childcare and Nursery Jobs with Free Visa Sponsorship – 2025

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)

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:

• TES Jobs

• eTeach

• NurseryWorldJobs.co.uk

• Indeed UK

• TotalJobs

• Careers.Gov.UK

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

• Use the UK Government Register of Licensed 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.