Care worker sponsorship: overseas and UK applications
Overseas recruitment has changed
From 22 July 2025, care worker and senior care worker roles in occupation codes 6135 and 6136 cannot be sponsored for entry clearance from overseas. This does not mean every healthcare occupation has closed.
Applications inside the UK
Sponsor guidance allows qualifying permission-to-stay applications. One route requires at least three months of legal work for the sponsoring employer before the Certificate of Sponsorship is assigned; applications under that provision must be made by 22 July 2028, and the arrangement is under review. Separate provisions cover people who continuously held qualifying Skilled Worker permission in the relevant care occupations. Other visa requirements still apply.
Before you apply
Ask the employer which occupation code and eligibility provision apply to the vacancy. A provider listing or sponsor-register match is not an offer of sponsorship. Check the official guidance and get regulated advice if your circumstances are unclear.