Thinking about working in the UK as a healthcare assistant or nurse? You’re not alone. The UK’s Health and Care Worker visa has made it possible for many international applicants to build meaningful careers in the healthcare sector. But with new immigration changes and confusing job ads everywhere, how can you be sure which employers actually sponsor visas?
In this post, we’ll show you the safe and smart way to find UK healthcare jobs with real visa sponsorship, no guesswork, and no outdated lists.
Why Accuracy Matters More Than Ever
Since April 2024, the UK Government has tightened its rules around care worker sponsorship. Now, not all employers are eligible to sponsor visas, and only certain roles qualify. Relying on social media posts or random advice online could lead to disappointment, or worse, scams.
So what’s the best way forward?
Step 1: Use the Official UK Register of Licensed Sponsors
Your safest bet is the UK Government’s official list of employers who are licensed to sponsor Health and Care Worker visas.
How to use it:
- Download the Excel file
- Search for terms like “care,” “hospital,” “nursing,” or “health”
- Check the sponsorship status and whether the company still holds an active licence
This list is updated regularly by the UK Home Office.
Step 2: Search Smarter on Job Platforms
Rather than relying on word-of-mouth, go straight to platforms that regularly post verified job openings:
Trusted Job Boards:
Search Tips:
- Use keywords like “visa sponsorship healthcare assistant” or “sponsorship nurse UK”
- Always filter by most recent postings
- Read the job description to see if it clearly mentions visa sponsorship
If it’s not in the ad, don’t assume, it’s best to confirm directly.
Step 3: Double-Check With the Employer
Got your eye on a specific job? Visit the employer’s official website or call their HR department.
Ask:
- Are you currently offering visa sponsorship for international candidates?
- Which roles qualify?
- Do you provide relocation support or training?
This step saves time and keeps you from applying to jobs that don’t support your visa needs.
Step 4: Be Aware of the Latest Visa Policy Changes
As of 2024:
- Only licensed sponsors can legally offer jobs to international care workers or nurses
- Dependants (spouses/children) are no longer allowed under most care worker visas unless you’re in a higher-level role
- More scrutiny is now placed on recruitment agencies and care homes
Avoid any agency or company that asks for money upfront or makes vague promises. Sponsorship is free for applicants, you should never have to pay for it.
Stay updated here: UK Health and Care Worker Visa Overview
Final Tip:
Instead of relying on viral job posts or WhatsApp broadcasts, trust only official and reputable sources. Your future in the UK healthcare sector deserves nothing less than a confident and informed start.
More Reads:
- Healthcare Jobs in the UK That Are Still Open to Overseas Applicants (2025 Guide)
- 7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for UK Visa Sponsorship Jobs
- The Vital Role of Social Workers in Healthcare: A Hidden Force in Patient Care
- High-Paying Healthcare Jobs Without a Medical Degree in 2025
