As the UK continues to lack health care professionals, foreign nurses remain in demand, especially in the NHS and private health care. Despite some restrictions on immigration in 2025, registered nurses continue to be sponsored for Skilled Worker visas.
Who Can Still Be Sponsored?
Registered nurses (SOC 2231) are the only current professions eligible for sponsorship under the new policy. Lead carers, care workers, are no longer sponsored, and nursing is one of the few medical professions that still provides a visa.
Whose Sponsoring?
• NHS Trusts in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland
• Private hospitals and care homes such as Bupa, Spire, and Nuffield
• Healthcare recruitment agencies with international reach
What’s Needed?
• NMC registration or sitting it (CBT and OSCE exams)
• English language skills (IELTS/OET)
• A job offer from a sponsor employer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Salary & Visa Fees
• Remuneration typically starts at £28,000+ (Band 5)
• NHS surcharge and visa fees can be levied, but are typically paid by employers
Key Note:
There are no new care worker sponsorships being accepted. Renewals are available only to current visa holders.
Last Thought:
If you are an overseas registered nurse, 2025 is not such a terrible year at all to be job searching in the UK. Aim for NHS or agency-paid roles and begin preparing for NMC registration good in advance. The route may be competitive—but not shut.