UK Ends Overseas Care Worker Recruitment: What You Need to Know

​The UK's care worker visa system has undergone significant changes in recent years, altering the landscape for international live-in carers seeking opportunities in the UK. At AHC Recruitment, we believe in keeping our community informed about these policy changes, as understanding the current situation is crucial for making informed decisions and staying safe.

Care Worker Route Closure

The most significant change came into effect on July 22, 2025, when the UK government officially closed the care worker visa route to new overseas applicants. This decision followed mounting concerns about widespread abuse within the system, with government investigations uncovering concerning levels of exploitation targeting vulnerable workers. This now means organisations cannot hire care workers and senior care workers from abroad, which includes most live-in carer positions.

The changes have introduced stricter requirements for employers:

• Since March 11, 2024, only Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered providers in England can sponsor care workers

• From April 9, 2025, care providers must first attempt to recruit workers already in England who need new sponsorship before hiring from overseas

• These measures aim to prioritise displaced workers whose previous employers lost their licenses due to non-compliance

What to Look Out For

• Offers of Sponsorship - With the route closure, sponsorship is no longer available for new care worker positions. Any offers claiming otherwise should be treated with extreme caution.

• Illegal Fee Schemes - One of the most common fraudulent practices involves charging workers illegal recruitment fees ranging from £3,000 to £18,000. These fees are often disguised as "processing," "service," or "admin" charges. This practice is completely illegal - legitimate UK employers never ask workers to pay for job placement.

• The Dependant Ban - Since March 11, 2024, new care workers cannot bring dependents (spouses and children) to the UK. If you are offered a role with the promise of bringing your family, this is no longer possible. However, care workers who were already in the UK before March 11, 2024, can still bring dependents during their sponsorship period.

Red Flags to Be Aware Of

• Any upfront fees: Workers should never pay employers anything for job placement or recruitment services - this is illegal

• Payment for sponsorship: Employers are prohibited from passing Certificate of Sponsorship fees to workers

• "Package deals": Offers of expensive "placement packages" are fraudulent

• Family promises: Job offers that include bringing dependents when this is no longer possible

• Missing CQC registration: Only CQC registered organisations can hire internationally

If you are uncertain about any offer, consult with a regulated immigration professional.

What does this mean for International Care Workers?

For those hoping to enter the UK care market, options are now severely restricted. The traditional care worker visa route is closed to new entrants. Very limited alternatives may exist through other visa routes, but these typically require higher qualifications or different circumstances.

For current workers already in the UK who need a new sponsor, there are support mechanisms including government regional partnerships schemes.

The Current Reality

The landscape for international live-in carers seeking UK opportunities has changed dramatically. The closure of the traditional care worker visa route means that legitimate pathways are now extremely limited.

The emphasis has shifted toward supporting existing workers and developing the domestic workforce. While this limits opportunities for new international carers, it represents a commitment to higher standards, better protection for workers, and a more sustainable approach to staffing the UK's care sector.

Staying Informed and Safe

We encourage anyone considering the UK care market to:

• Verify all opportunities through official channels

• Remember that legitimate offers don't require any upfront payments

• Take time to research thoroughly

• Seek advice from regulated immigration professionals when needed

At AHC Recruitment, we're committed to keeping our community informed about these important changes. While the landscape has become more challenging, staying informed and working with trustworthy partners remains the best approach to navigating these changes safely.

For immigration advice, always consult with regulated immigration professionals. AHC Recruitment provides information to help our community stay informed but does not provide immigration advice.