jonecgroupCare assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship have become one of the most sought-after employment opportunities for foreign nationals looking to migrate for work.
With the country’s aging population and increasing demand for quality healthcare services, the UK government continues to open its doors to international candidates through sponsored visas.
These roles are critical within hospitals, care homes, and private households, offering stable income, career progression, and relocation support.
In 2025, the demand for care assistants remains exceptionally high across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The Health and Care Worker Visa, a branch of the Skilled Worker Visa, has simplified the immigration process for qualified and compassionate individuals ready to support elderly and vulnerable residents.
Employers in this sector are not only providing competitive pay but also covering visa costs and offering accommodation assistance.
This article will guide you through the requirements, salary expectations, regions with the best pay, and how to apply successfully for UK care assistant jobs with visa sponsorship.
Whether you’re a healthcare graduate or someone seeking a stable career abroad, understanding these essentials will help you secure a rewarding position with minimal barriers.
Entry-Level Skills and Experience Required
To qualify for care assistant jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship, you do not necessarily need advanced medical qualifications, but you must demonstrate practical caregiving skills, empathy, and a professional attitude toward supporting patients.
The UK healthcare sector prioritizes passion and responsibility over formal education, especially in entry-level positions. Most employers require a minimum of a high school diploma or its equivalent, alongside a proven ability to communicate effectively in English.
The Home Office generally expects foreign workers to meet the English language requirement, typically verified through the IELTS test (band score 4.0 or higher) or other approved English certifications. Candidates may also provide proof of education taught in English as a substitute.
Experience in home care, nursing assistance, or voluntary caregiving adds immense value to your application. If you’ve previously worked with elderly people, individuals with disabilities, or in hospital support roles, you are already positioned as a strong candidate. Employers also value training certifications such as:
- NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent international certificate)
- CPR and First Aid Certification
- Manual Handling and Safeguarding Training
Many care homes and NHS-affiliated employers provide on-the-job training for new recruits, meaning you can start your career even if you lack UK experience. In such cases, dedication, patience, and a clean criminal record (as verified by a Police Clearance Certificate) are crucial.
For entry-level care assistants, salaries typically range between £20,480 to £23,000 per year, with higher pay available for those with added certifications. This figure is consistent with the UK Home Office minimum salary threshold for visa sponsorship under the Health and Care Worker Visa scheme.
With increasing staff shortages, many companies are also offering paid induction training, accommodation, and relocation packages to international hires.
If you’re applying from countries such as Nigeria, India, Kenya, or the Philippines, gaining relevant caregiving experience before applying is advisable. Many successful applicants begin by completing short courses on caregiving and basic health support, available online through UK-accredited institutions.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Pay for care assistant jobs varies significantly across UK regions, influenced by factors such as cost of living, local demand, and the employer’s funding. While care work is one of the most stable occupations in the UK, choosing the right location can make a big difference in your earnings and lifestyle.
London and the South East
London remains the highest-paying region for care assistants, primarily due to its higher cost of living and strong demand for healthcare staff.
Employers in London often offer annual salaries ranging from £25,000 to £32,000, with additional benefits like transport allowances and accommodation support. Many care homes in areas such as Croydon, Enfield, and Brent sponsor overseas workers under the Health and Care Worker Visa.
South West England
Counties such as Dorset, Devon, and Cornwall have witnessed rising pay rates for healthcare professionals, especially in private care homes and assisted living facilities.
The average care assistant salary in this region ranges between £22,000 and £27,000, depending on experience. Moreover, several employers provide flexible work schedules and subsidized housing, making it an attractive choice for immigrants.
Scotland
Scotland offers competitive salaries along with lower living costs compared to London. Care assistants can earn £23,500 to £28,000 per year, and some councils even provide additional bonuses for night shifts or weekend work.
Cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen have large care organizations actively hiring international workers with visa sponsorship.
Northern Ireland and Wales
While wages here may be slightly lower, typically between £20,000 and £24,500 per annum, these regions offer excellent quality of life and lower rent costs. Employers in rural towns are often willing to sponsor overseas candidates due to severe staff shortages in local facilities.
The regional variation in pay means that choosing your preferred location depends on your lifestyle priorities. London might offer higher gross pay, but accommodation costs can offset the difference.
Conversely, smaller cities like Nottingham, Sheffield, or Cardiff provide better savings potential due to affordable housing.
In 2025, government and private sector data show that the average hourly wage for care assistants in the UK is £11.50–£14, representing steady growth from the previous year. Overtime, weekend, and holiday shifts can significantly increase total earnings.
Salary Expectations for Care Assistants
The salary for care assistants in the UK is determined by multiple factors, experience level, job location, shift patterns, and the type of employer (public or private). However, thanks to the visa sponsorship framework, international recruits receive fair pay that aligns with UK standards.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the median annual salary for care assistants and home support workers in 2025 is approximately £23,200, with a range extending from £20,480 for entry-level workers to £30,000+ for experienced carers.
Salary Breakdown
- Entry-Level (0–1 year): £20,480 – £22,000 annually
- Intermediate (2–4 years): £23,000 – £26,000 annually
- Senior or Team Leader: £27,000 – £32,000 annually
In addition to fixed pay, many employers offer hourly rates between £11 and £15, depending on shift flexibility. Weekend and night shifts often attract higher rates, sometimes up to £18 per hour in metropolitan areas.
NHS vs Private Sector
Care assistants employed under the National Health Service (NHS) typically fall under the Band 2 or Band 3 pay scale, earning between £22,383 and £26,000 per year, including pension and paid leave.
The private sector, on the other hand, often pays slightly higher wages but may not include the same long-term benefits. For example, privately owned care homes in London and Manchester pay up to £30,000 per year for full-time positions, especially for international recruits willing to relocate.
Additional Benefits and Allowances
Apart from competitive wages, care assistants with visa sponsorship are often entitled to extra benefits such as:
- Relocation packages covering airfare and visa processing fees
- Free or subsidized accommodation
- Paid annual leave (28 days on average)
- Pension contributions and professional development training
The Health and Care Worker Visa also waives the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), saving foreign workers up to £624 per year. This financial relief, combined with steady income and opportunities for career advancement, makes the UK one of the most rewarding destinations for caregivers.
For those seeking long-term prospects, care assistant jobs serve as a gateway to senior care roles, nursing positions, or even permanent residency under the Skilled Worker Visa pathway. With demand expected to grow by 25% by 2030, salaries and sponsorship opportunities are projected to rise steadily.
Companies Hiring Care Assistants in the UK
The UK care sector is supported by both public and private organizations, each offering visa sponsorship for qualified foreign workers. Understanding the leading employers can help you target applications efficiently and maximize your chances of relocation.
NHS and Public Health Organizations
The National Health Service (NHS) is the largest employer of care assistants in the UK. Hospitals, community health services, and elderly care units regularly hire overseas workers due to staff shortages.
Salaries typically range from £22,383 to £26,000 per year under Band 2 and 3 pay scales, with additional benefits like pension contributions, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
Private Care Homes and Agencies
Private care providers are increasingly sponsoring foreign workers to fill vacancies in residential and nursing homes.
Companies such as Bupa, Four Seasons Health Care, HC-One, and Care UK are recognized for offering relocation support and competitive wages up to £30,000 per annum for experienced care assistants.
Charitable and Non-Governmental Organizations
Some NGOs and charitable organizations operating in healthcare provide positions for international workers. While salaries may be slightly lower, typically £20,000–£24,000 per year, these roles offer the advantage of flexible work schedules, valuable training, and visa sponsorship opportunities.
Specialized Elderly Care Agencies
Agencies focusing exclusively on elderly care, dementia, or palliative support often provide higher starting salaries and comprehensive training programs. Candidates can expect pay ranging from £23,000 to £28,000 per year, plus additional benefits for night shifts or weekend work.
Visa Types and Options for Care Assistants
International applicants require valid visas to work legally in the UK. Care assistants are eligible under several visa routes, most notably the Health and Care Worker Visa and other Skilled Worker categories.
Health and Care Worker Visa (H&CW Visa)
This visa is specifically designed for healthcare professionals, including care assistants.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Job offer from a UK-approved sponsor
- Minimum annual salary of £20,960 (or £23,040 for experienced care roles)
- English language proficiency (IELTS score 4.0+ or equivalent)
Benefits:
- Waived Immigration Health Surcharge
- Family dependents can accompany the worker
- Pathway to permanent residency after 5 years
Skilled Worker Visa
Care assistants may also qualify under the broader Skilled Worker Visa if they meet the criteria set by the Home Office. The main difference is that the salary threshold is slightly higher, typically starting from £26,200 per year, but this route allows more flexibility in employer choice.
Tier 2 (General) Visa – Older Schemes
Although largely replaced by the Health and Care Worker and Skilled Worker Visas, some long-term employers still sponsor candidates through the old Tier 2 route. Applicants must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship and demonstrate at least one year of prior experience in caregiving.
Short-Term Work Options and Traineeships
For temporary employment or training programs, some private agencies offer Temporary Worker – Government Authorized Exchange Visas. Salaries are generally lower, around £18,000–£22,000 per year, but these positions provide crucial UK work experience and may lead to long-term sponsorship.
Where to Find Care Assistant Job Opportunities
Finding care assistant jobs in the UK requires a combination of online research, agency applications, and professional networking.
Online Job Portals
Websites like NHS Jobs, Indeed, Reed, Totaljobs, and Carehome.co.uk regularly list vacancies offering visa sponsorship. Job seekers should filter for “sponsor visa” or “Health and Care Worker Visa” to identify eligible roles.
Recruitment Agencies
Specialized recruitment agencies such as HCL Workforce, Medacs Healthcare, and Your World Healthcare focus on international placements. These agencies often assist with visa processing, accommodation, and pre-employment training.
Company Career Pages
Large employers like Bupa, HC-One, and Four Seasons Health Care maintain dedicated career sections for international applicants. Applying directly increases the likelihood of visa sponsorship and ensures faster processing.
Networking and Professional Platforms
LinkedIn remains a powerful tool for connecting with UK healthcare managers and recruiters. Joining UK-based caregiving groups or professional associations can provide early access to new openings and sponsorship opportunities.
Local Job Fairs and Virtual Hiring Events
Many care organizations host virtual recruitment events targeting overseas candidates. These sessions provide interviews, Q&A on visa sponsorship, and guidance on UK relocation, often streamlining the hiring process.
How to Apply for Care Assistant Jobs as an Immigrant in the UK
Applying successfully as an international candidate requires careful preparation of documents, understanding the visa process, and presenting your skills effectively.
Step 1: Prepare Essential Documents
Applicants must have:
- Updated CV highlighting caregiving experience and certifications
- Passport and valid identification
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
- Police Clearance Certificate for background verification
- Any relevant healthcare certificates (e.g., NVQ Level 2/3, CPR)
Step 2: Search for Visa-Sponsoring Employers
Focus applications on employers listed on the Home Office’s official sponsor list. Filtering job portals for “Health and Care Worker Visa” roles ensures you target positions eligible for sponsorship.
Step 3: Submit Written Applications
Ensure each application emphasizes your caregiving experience, adaptability, and English communication skills. Mention any training, prior volunteer work, or certifications that align with UK standards.
Step 4: Attend Interviews
Interviews may be conducted via video calls for overseas candidates. Be prepared to discuss real-life caregiving scenarios, ethical considerations, and patient interaction. Highlighting your willingness to work flexible shifts and your cultural adaptability strengthens your profile.
Step 5: Secure Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship
Once an employer offers a role, they provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This document is mandatory for visa applications and confirms your eligibility to work in the UK under the sponsored visa category.
Step 6: Apply for the Visa
Submit your Health and Care Worker Visa or Skilled Worker Visa application online, including the CoS, proof of English proficiency, and biometric information. Expect visa processing times between 3–8 weeks, depending on your country of residence.
Step 7: Relocate and Complete Onboarding
Upon visa approval, travel to the UK and attend employer onboarding. Most care homes provide orientation, training, and mentorship to ensure smooth integration into the workplace. Salaries are typically activated from the first month, and additional benefits such as accommodation support or relocation allowance are included.
By following these steps carefully, immigrants can secure stable, high-paying care assistant roles with visa sponsorship and long-term career potential in the UK.
jonecgroup