Personal Support Workers (PSWs) are integral to the UK’s healthcare system, helping individuals with daily living needs and providing critical support to the elderly, disabled, and those in recovery.
As the UK faces increasing healthcare demands from an aging population and staffing shortages, it now offers visa sponsorship for international PSWs, creating an opportunity for overseas candidates to work and reside in the UK legally in 2025.
The UK government encourages international recruitment for PSWs, making this a promising career option for foreign candidates. Major care companies like Agincare, HC-One, and Care UK are hiring internationally to meet the rising demand for personal support.
For candidates with the necessary skills and experience, these roles offer a fulfilling career path and a route to potential long-term settlement in the UK.
Core Responsibilities of a Personal Support Worker
- Personal Care Assistance:
- Help with bathing, grooming, and dressing clients.
- Assist with hygiene and toileting needs.
- Household Support:
- Meal preparation and feeding assistance.
- Light housekeeping and running errands as needed.
- Mobility and Transportation:
- Support with mobility needs, including wheelchair assistance.
- Accompany clients to appointments and social events.
- Emotional and Social Support:
- Provide companionship and emotional support.
- Observe and report any changes in mental health.
- Medical Support and Health Monitoring:
- Administer prescribed medication.
- Monitor and report health changes to healthcare professionals.
- Record Maintenance:
- Log care activities and report any incidents to the care team or family members.
Eligibility Requirements for Personal Support Worker Positions
To apply for PSW roles with visa sponsorship in the UK, applicants generally need to meet the following criteria:
- Education:
- Formal degrees are not required, but certifications in health or social care are beneficial.
- Completion of Health and Social Care NVQ Level 2 or 3 can improve job prospects.
- Experience:
- Previous experience in caregiving, nursing, or social work is often preferred.
- Skills:
- Empathy, patience, and communication skills.
- Basic health monitoring knowledge, such as taking vital signs.
- English Proficiency:
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS) is required for visa eligibility.
- Additional Requirements:
- A DBS (criminal background) check is mandatory.
- A UK driver’s license may be required for roles involving travel to clients’ homes.
Top Employers Recruiting Personal Support Workers
- HC-One
- Operating over 300 care homes, HC-One hires PSWs for elderly care with visa sponsorship available.
- Agincare
- Known for live-in and home care services, Agincare provides visa sponsorship for international care workers.
- Care UK
- As one of the largest healthcare providers, Care UK offers care home and in-home services and actively recruits international workers.
- Prestige Nursing + Care
- Providing customized home care services, Prestige Nursing offers visa sponsorship for experienced healthcare workers.
- Helping Hands Home Care
- Specializing in at-home and companionship care, Helping Hands recruits PSWs internationally and provides visa sponsorship.
Visa Sponsorship Process for Care Workers
The UK introduced the Skilled Worker Visa for health and care roles, including PSWs, in early 2022, enabling foreign nationals to legally work in the UK.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):
- The employer provides a CoS to confirm sponsorship.
- Visa Application:
- Submit a visa application with your CoS, proof of English proficiency, and health surcharge payment.
- Processing Time:
- Processing typically takes 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the country of residence.
- Commence Work:
- Once your visa is approved, you can relocate to the UK and start work immediately with your sponsor.
Steps to Apply for Personal Support Worker Positions
- Prepare Your Application:
- Tailor your CV to highlight caregiving experience, certifications, and relevant skills.
- Apply for Roles:
- To submit your application, email it to or click the “Apply” button on this page. After receiving your submission, our team will thoroughly review your profile to match you with appropriate opportunities based on your skills and qualifications. Your application will then be forwarded to the relevant institution for evaluation. Rest assured, the entire process is free of charge, and no fees will be requested at any stage.
- Interview Preparation:
- Be ready to discuss your caregiving background and approach to patient care.
- Receive Job Offer and Sponsorship:
- Upon selection, your employer will provide the CoS needed for your visa application.