The UK care sector is facing one of the most urgent workforce shortages in its history—and that has opened real, immediate opportunities for overseas applicants searching for a care home that sponsor Tier 2. With thousands of vacancies across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, licensed employers are actively recruiting qualified international care workers under the Skilled Worker visa route (formerly Tier 2). If you are looking for stable employment, legal sponsorship, and long-term settlement potential in the United Kingdom, this comprehensive guide outlines how the system works, which employers are known to sponsor, and how to secure your offer.
Key Takeaways
- A care home that sponsor Tier 2 must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence issued by the UK Home Office.
- Care Worker (SOC 6135) and Senior Care Worker (SOC 6136) roles are eligible for sponsorship.
- Many providers begin sponsorship immediately after a formal job offer is issued.
- Employers must meet salary thresholds and compliance standards before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- The Skilled Worker visa can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years.
Why the UK Is Actively Hiring International Care Workers
The UK’s aging population and increasing demand for residential and domiciliary care services have created a workforce gap that domestic hiring alone cannot fill. According to sector reports, vacancy rates in adult social care have remained persistently high, prompting the government to add care workers to the Shortage Occupation List in recent years.
This policy shift made it easier for a care home that sponsor Tier 2 to recruit internationally. For overseas applicants, that means faster hiring cycles, clearer visa pathways, and genuine long-term employment prospects.
Understanding the Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) Route
Although many people still search using the term “Tier 2,” the official route is now the Skilled Worker visa under the UK points-based immigration system.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have a confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor
- Receive a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Meet English language requirements
- Meet minimum salary thresholds
- Pass background and health checks
The employer plays a central role. Without a licensed sponsor, the application cannot proceed.
What Makes a Care Home That Sponsor Tier 2 Eligible?
A legitimate sponsoring employer must:
- Hold a Skilled Worker sponsor licence
- Be registered with the relevant regulatory authority
- Demonstrate genuine vacancy requirements
- Pay the required salary threshold
- Maintain compliance records and reporting duties
In England, care providers are regulated by the Care Quality Commission. In Scotland, regulation falls under the Care Inspectorate. In Wales, oversight is provided by Care Inspectorate Wales.
A strong regulatory rating often reflects stability and compliance—two indicators of a reliable sponsor.
Leading Care Providers Known to Sponsor International Workers
While sponsorship policies change, several large care groups across the UK have historically recruited overseas candidates.
1. HC-One
One of the UK’s largest care home operators, HC-One runs dozens of residential and nursing homes. The company has previously engaged in international recruitment drives to fill workforce gaps.
Why candidates consider HC-One:
- Large national presence
- Structured HR departments
- Experience with visa sponsorship processes
2. Barchester Healthcare
Barchester Healthcare operates premium care homes and assisted living facilities across the UK.
What makes Barchester attractive:
- Established recruitment framework
- Experience hiring international nurses and care staff
- Clear career progression pathways
3. Care UK
Care UK provides residential care, nursing care, and specialist dementia services.
Sponsorship strengths:
- Professional onboarding systems
- Compliance-focused management
- Long-term employment structures
4. Four Seasons Health Care
Four Seasons has operated numerous care facilities across the UK and has previously participated in overseas recruitment.
5. Anchor
Anchor is one of England’s largest not-for-profit providers of housing and care for older adults.
Not-for-profit providers often offer structured contracts and stable sponsorship opportunities.
Regional Opportunities Across the UK
England
Major cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds consistently advertise vacancies for care workers with sponsorship options.
Scotland
Care homes in Glasgow and Edinburgh have reported staffing shortages, increasing opportunities for overseas applicants.
Wales
Smaller communities often experience acute shortages, making sponsorship more common in rural areas.
Northern Ireland
While fewer in number, licensed care providers may sponsor under the same Skilled Worker framework.
Salary Requirements for Care Workers
For Skilled Worker sponsorship:
- Care Workers (SOC 6135) typically must meet minimum salary thresholds set by the Home Office.
- Senior Care Workers (SOC 6136) may require slightly higher pay.
Salary rates may vary depending on national minimum salary adjustments and shortage occupation provisions.
Always verify current thresholds before applying.
Step-by-Step Process to Secure Sponsorship
- Apply directly to licensed care providers.
- Confirm during interview whether the employer is a care home that sponsor Tier 2.
- Receive a formal written job offer.
- Employer assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Submit Skilled Worker visa application.
- Attend biometric appointment and await decision.
Processing times vary but can range from a few weeks to several months.
Warning Signs to Avoid
Unfortunately, some fraudulent recruiters target overseas applicants.
Avoid employers who:
- Ask for large upfront “sponsorship fees”
- Cannot provide sponsor licence details
- Offer contracts without interviews
- Refuse to issue official documentation
Legitimate employers do not sell Certificates of Sponsorship.
Benefits of Working in a UK Care Home
Choosing a care home that sponsor Tier 2 offers more than visa security.
Professional Benefits:
- Structured training programs
- NVQ or equivalent qualifications
- Career progression to senior care roles
Personal Benefits:
- Stable income
- Opportunity to bring dependents (if eligible)
- Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain
After five years under the Skilled Worker route, many applicants become eligible for permanent residency.
How to Strengthen Your Application
To stand out:
- Highlight prior caregiving experience
- Demonstrate strong English communication skills
- Provide verified references
- Complete caregiving certifications if available
- Prepare for competency-based interviews
UK employers prioritize reliability, compassion, and safeguarding awareness.
Compliance Responsibilities After Sponsorship
Once sponsored, you must:
- Work only for your sponsoring employer
- Inform the Home Office of major changes
- Maintain valid visa status
- Avoid unauthorized employment
Employers also have reporting duties under UK immigration law.
The Future of Care Home Sponsorship in 2026 and Beyond
The demand for qualified care workers remains strong. However, immigration policies evolve, and salary thresholds may adjust. Employers must balance operational budgets with compliance obligations.
For applicants, staying informed and applying directly through official channels remains the safest route.
Final Thoughts on Finding a Care Home That Sponsor Tier 2
Securing employment with a care home that sponsor Tier 2 can open the door to long-term career stability in the United Kingdom. With workforce shortages continuing across the care sector, international applicants who meet eligibility requirements have real opportunities.
The key is preparation—research licensed sponsors, confirm eligibility criteria, and approach the process professionally. When done correctly, Skilled Worker sponsorship offers not just employment, but a pathway to settlement and long-term security in the UK.
FAQs
Is Tier 2 still available for care workers?
The Tier 2 route has been replaced by the Skilled Worker visa, but many people still use the term when searching.
Can a small care home sponsor international workers?
Yes, if the care home holds a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence and meets compliance standards.
How long does the visa process take?
Processing times vary but typically range from 3 to 8 weeks after submitting biometrics.
Can I bring my family under this visa?
In many cases, Skilled Worker visa holders can bring eligible dependents.
Does sponsorship guarantee permanent residency?
No. However, after five continuous years, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if eligibility requirements are met.