Healthcare Jobs in the UK That Are Still Open to Overseas Applicants (2025 Guide)

If you’ve been thinking about moving to the UK for a healthcare job, you’ve probably heard about the recent visa changes. These updates have made things harder for some, especially those looking for care worker jobs with visa sponsorship. But don’t give up just yet, not all healthcare jobs are affected.

In fact, there are still several healthcare roles in the UK that remain open to international applicants, and some of them still offer visa sponsorship. This guide will walk you through what’s changed, what’s still available, and how to safely apply for the right roles.

What’s Changed in the UK Healthcare Visa Policy?

In 2024, the UK government made new immigration rules that mostly affect care workers and senior care workers, especially when it comes to bringing dependants (family members).

Some of the key changes include:

• Most care workers can no longer bring dependants on their visa.
• Only approved sponsors can now offer jobs with visa support.
• The aim is to reduce immigration numbers while still allowing in-demand workers.

But here’s the good news: not all healthcare roles are under these restrictions.

Healthcare Jobs Still Open to Overseas Applicants in 2025

Here are some UK healthcare roles still listed on the Shortage Occupation List or considered in high demand, meaning they’re more likely to offer visa sponsorship:

1. Nurses

Whether you’re trained in adult nursing, mental health, or learning disabilities, registered nurses remain in high demand. The NHS and private hospitals still recruit internationally.

You’ll need to pass the CBT and OSCE exams and register with the NMC.

2. Doctors & Medical Officers

The UK still needs general practitioners, hospital doctors, psychiatrists, and other specialists. These roles usually come with full relocation packages and visa sponsorship.

3. Allied Health Professionals (AHPs)

If you’re a qualified:

• Physiotherapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Radiographer
• Paramedic

You’re in luck! These roles are still being recruited internationally.

4. Midwives

Midwifery is another area facing staff shortages in the UK. Internationally qualified midwives who meet the NMC requirements are welcome to apply.

5. Nursing Associates (via NHS Training Routes)

While not open to all overseas applicants yet, some nursing associate roles or apprenticeships are supported internally by the NHS, which could lead to permanent jobs and future visas.

How to Find Trusted Jobs and Sponsors

To avoid scams and dead ends, use only verified sources:

• NHS Jobs
•  licensed sponsor list
• Lavhi.com (for NHS roles)

Before you apply, make sure the employer:

• Is listed as a licensed sponsor on the government website
• Offers Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) Visa support
• Doesn’t ask for upfront payment or personal documents too early

Watch Out for Job Offer Scams

Sadly, some job ads out there are fake. Be cautious if:

• The recruiter promises a job “guaranteed” for a fee
• The company has no official website or NHS connection
• The salary offered seems too good to be true

Always double-check with official platforms.

Final Thoughts

Even with the new policy changes, there are still plenty of opportunities for healthcare professionals to build a career in the UK. Roles like nurses, doctors, midwives, and AHPs remain open to overseas workers, especially if you meet the licensing and visa requirements. So, don’t lose hope instead, focus on roles still in demand, apply smartly, and use only trusted platforms.

Related Reads:

• Licensed Companies Offering Healthcare Visa Sponsorship in the UK
• Everything You Need to Know About UK Healthcare and Skilled Worker Visas
• UK Work Visas: From Tiers to Points – What You Need to Know