The NHS and private providers actively recruit internationally qualified nurses, doctors and allied health professionals — with a dedicated, lower-cost Health and Care Worker visa and a clear registration route.
The UK runs the largest healthcare system most candidates will consider — the NHS — alongside a big private and social-care sector. Internationally qualified nurses, doctors and allied health professionals remain in active demand, and the Health and Care Worker visa is the most cost-effective sponsored route in the system: exempt from the immigration health surcharge, with reduced application fees.
The Health and Care Worker visa is a lower-cost branch of the Skilled Worker route for qualified health professionals. Who can use it changed sharply in 2025 — here is the honest position:
For registered nurses, doctors, midwives and allied health professionals with a job offer from an approved health or care sponsor. Exempt from the health surcharge, reduced fees, and leads to settlement after five years.
Register with the relevant UK body — often started in parallel with the job offer. Nurses complete the NMC Test of Competence (CBT then OSCE).
Since 22 July 2025, care workers and senior care workers (SOC 6135/6136) can no longer be sponsored from overseas — only in-country switching applies. This route is now for registered professionals, not overseas care-worker recruitment.
Registration, visa route, demand and indicative pay for the four professions we source into the United Kingdom.
Detailed, honest walkthroughs of the registration and visa steps above — kept current for 2026.
Register free to build your verified profile, follow the NMC/GMC/HCPC route for your role, and get matched with NHS and private employers who sponsor. Upgrade to Premium for destination training, a readiness interview and a named Journey Advisor.