The UK offers numerous opportunities for Overseasl nurses and carers seeking to advance their careers. Several Care homes across the country are actively recruiting overseas professionals, providing support with visa sponsorship, training, and integration into the UK healthcare system. Below is an in-depth look at some of these organisations:
1. Care UK
Care UK is one of the UK’s leading independent health and social care providers, with over 150 care homes spread across England, Scotland, and Wales. For over 30 years, Care UK has been delivering award-winning, person-centred care services to older people, including dementia care, nursing care, and short-term respite care. They are well known for their commitment to innovation, excellence in care delivery, and a supportive working environment for both local and international healthcare professionals.
In response to the growing demand for skilled carers and nurses in the UK, Care UK has expanded its recruitment drive to include candidates from overseas. The organisation understands the value that international talent brings to the care sector and has tailored its recruitment process to ensure a smooth transition for candidates moving to the UK.
Requirements for Overseas Nurses
- Meet the English requirement of the NMC.
- Pass CBT exam (part one of the NMC test of competence).
- Complete Tuberculosis test.
Reqiuirements for Overseas and UK Carers
- Meet the English language requirement; you can prove your knowledge of English by either:
- Passing a SELT, or Secure English Language Test, from an approved provider.
- Obtaining a GCSE, A level, Scottish National Qualification (either level 4 or 5), Scottish Higher or Advanced Higher in English, gained through study at a UK school when aged under 18.
- Having an academic degree-level qualification that was taught in English. If you studied abroad, you will need to apply through Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) for confirmation that your qualification is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s or master’s degree or a PhD.
Care UK offers a competitive relocation package that includes a certificate of sponsorship, visa, flight, and accommodation. OSCE training, exam booking, and travel are also included for NMC pre-registration nurses. The full package will be shared with you before your pre-screening call with our overseas advisors.
Application Process:
Online Application: Interested candidates can apply directly through the Care UK careers portal.
Screening & Interview: Successful applications are shortlisted for virtual interviews. These may be one-on-one or in group formats.
Offer & Compliance Checks: Upon successful interview, candidates receive conditional job offers, pending documentation and background checks.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Care UK will issue a CoS to enable the candidate to apply for the Health and Care Worker visa.
Visa Application: With the CoS, applicants can apply for their visa and proceed with travel arrangements once approved.
Arrival & Onboarding: Upon arrival in the UK, Care UK assists with orientation, accommodation arrangements, and continued training.
2. Academy Care
The Application Process
3. Agincare
Agincare is a well-established, family-run care provider in the UK with a proud legacy of delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 35 years. With a nationwide presence, Agincare offers a wide range of services, including home care, live-in care, and residential care across its multiple care homes. Their commitment to dignity, respect, and independence has made them one of the most trusted names in the UK’s social care sector. Agincare is also one of the few UK care providers directly licensed to sponsor overseas workers, making it a popular and accessible route for international nurses and carers seeking fulfilling careers in the UK care industry.
Eligibility criteria
Have a qualification in a health and social care related subject Be a nurse (or equivalent, such as a paramedic) or healthcare assistant Have a qualification that demonstrates a proficient level of spoken and written English (UKVI IELTS with scores not less than 6 overall and 5.5 for each module)
Have 1 or more years of clinical experience.
You must apply via the link on their International recruitment page.
Submitting multiple applications will result in the refusal of all applications.
How to apply
- Have a qualification in a health and social care related subject
- Are a nurse (or equivalent, such as a paramedic) or healthcare assistant
- Have a qualification that demonstrates a proficient level of spoken and written English (UKVI IELTS with scores not less than 6 overall and 5.5 for each module)
- Have 1 or more years of clinical experience
- Look to further your career in health and social care in the UK
The Home Office scrutinises each visa application, and once the application is made, it is only approved if you are assessed as suitable for a visa.
4. HC-One
HC-One stands as one of the UK’s largest and most recognised care home providers, operating over 275 care homes across England, Scotland, and Wales. Renowned for their commitment to kindness and person-centred care, HC-One offers a wide spectrum of services, including nursing care, residential care, respite care, and specialist dementia support. Their mission is to be the kindest care home operator in the UK, and they strive to create homely environments where residents feel respected, valued, and cared for. With a strong focus on continuous improvement, staff development, and international recruitment, HC-One provides a reliable pathway for overseas nurses and carers looking to build a meaningful career in the UK care sector.
HC-One is currently accepting applications from eligible overseas-qualified nurses who wish to gain their NMC pin and practice in the UK.
HC-One will cover the cost of your deployment journey to the UK, as well as financial support to complete OSCE training and examination.
When joining HC-One in the capacity of a Pre-Registered Nurse, you will be under supervision from a Qualified Nurse until you have achieved full NMC registration.
Note, they do not currently accept direct applications from candidates who live outside of the UK, which means they are unable to accept applications from candidates who currently reside in a country on the World Health Organization – Health Workforce Support and Safeguards List (as detailed within the Code of Practice for International Recruitment– Red List).
Eligibility Criteria:
Valid nursing qualification.
Pass the NMC’s CBT and meet English language requirements.
Willingness to undergo OSCE training.
5. The Good Care Group
The Good Care Group is a premium provider of live-in care services across England and Scotland, renowned for delivering outstanding, person-centred care that allows clients to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. With a strong emphasis on dignity, independence, and tailored support, they specialize in caring for individuals with complex needs, including dementia, Parkinson’s, and post-operative conditions. The Good Care Group is rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and is widely respected for its commitment to clinical excellence and compassionate service. They also actively recruit internationally, offering a structured pathway and comprehensive support for skilled carers seeking to build rewarding careers in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum of one year’s professional care experience.
Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
Right to work in the UK or eligibility for visa sponsorship.
Application Process:
Submit an online application through their careers page.
Participate in a telephone or video interview.
Attend a comprehensive induction training program upon successful selection.
Visa Sponsorship: The Good Care Group offers visa sponsorship for eligible international candidates under the Health and Care Worker visa route.
OSCE Training: They provide support and guidance for overseas nurses preparing for the OSCE, ensuring candidates meet the NMC requirements.YouTube
Types of Care Available: Live-in care, dementia care, respite care, and palliative care
Skills & Experience Needed:
Empathy and dedication to providing high-quality care.
Ability to work independently in a client’s home.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- 6. Avanti Homecare International Recruitment write a more detailed information on this include all pointsthat is needed
6. Avanti Homecare International Recruitment
Avanti Homecare is a well-established, CQC-registered domiciliary care provider based in the United Kingdom, primarily operating in the East Midlands. The company is known for delivering high-quality homecare services that are tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual. Avanti Homecare supports clients in remaining independent in their own homes, offering services ranging from personal care and medication assistance to more complex healthcare needs. With a growing demand for compassionate and skilled carers in the UK, Avanti has opened its doors to recruiting internationally, creating opportunities for overseas healthcare workers who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.Visa Sponsorship and International Recruitment
Avanti Homecare is licensed by the UK Home Office to sponsor Skilled Worker visas for qualified overseas candidates. This means they are actively seeking to recruit experienced care workers from outside the UK who meet the required immigration and job eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria for International Applicants
To be considered for sponsorship by Avanti Homecare, international candidates typically need to meet the following criteria:
Professional Experience: At least 1–2 years of experience in a caregiving or healthcare support role (e.g., elderly care, disability support, or hospital experience).
Educational Background: A diploma, NVQ Level 2/3, or equivalent certification in health and social care is often preferred.
English Language Proficiency: Candidates must prove their English proficiency by passing an approved English language test such as IELTS (minimum score of 4.0 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing) or have a degree that was taught in English.
Police Clearance: A clear criminal background check (from the applicant’s country of residence).
Health Check: Proof of medical fitness, including TB screening (if applicable based on country of origin).
Compassionate Nature: A genuine passion for caregiving and strong interpersonal skills are essential.
Application Process
Online Application: Candidates can apply directly through Avanti Homecare’s recruitment page or via a recruitment partner if specified.
Document Submission: Submit CV, references, proof of qualifications, and a personal statement.
Interview: Qualified applicants are shortlisted and interviewed via video call.
Offer & CoS: Successful applicants receive a job offer followed by a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa.
Visa Application: Applicants proceed to apply for their visa through the UK Government website.
Relocation Support: Avanti provides onboarding assistance and may offer help with accommodation or settling-in services, depending on the contract.
Pro Tip:
Be thorough and proactive in your application. Highlight your practical care experience, willingness to learn, and ability to adapt to new environments.
Make sure your CV reflects not just your qualifications but your character—empathy, patience, and teamwork go a long way in care roles.
Choosing to work in the UK care sector as an overseas nurse or carer is not just a career move—it’s a life-changing journey. The beauty of this sector is that you don’t just get to relocate—you get to make a real difference in people’s lives every single day, all while building a stable future for yourself and possibly your family. With visa sponsorship available, comprehensive training, and long-term settlement pathways, the UK care industry remains one of the most accessible and fulfilling options for international healthcare professionals.
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