The government has announced in the May 2025 UK immigration White Paper a significant change in policy: the closure of the Adult Social Care visa route to new applicants from abroad. This will effectively terminate the recruitment of care workers from abroad.This policy takes immediate effect, with a transition window lasting until 2028—during which existing visa holders can extend their stay, change sponsors, and continue contributing to the sector
Why Did the UK Do This?
According to the UK Home Office and Department of Health and Social Care, the move aims to:
- Reduce the number of immigrants
- Enhance the recruitment of domestic workers in the field of social care.
- Prevent the exploitation of a sector that is characterized by low wages and subpar practices.
Check Also: UK Family Visa – A Deep Dive into the New Minimum Income Rules
Who’s Affected?
Still Eligible (Until 2028):
The new modifications do not leave care workers who are already in the UK stranded. They are still able to extend their current visas, transition to new sponsoring employers in the care sector, and apply for settlement (permanent residency) if they satisfy the eligibility criteria.
Additionally, if the job and sponsorship requirements are satisfied, individuals who are presently in the UK on student or family visas may be recruited for care roles. Additionally, the policy provides for the rehiring of “displaced” care workers—those whose employers have lost their sponsorship licenses—by other approved sponsors in the local area. This ensures a degree of continuity and stability for those who are already contributing to the social care system in the UK.
Reactions from the Sector:
The response from the care sector has been nothing short of chaotic. Providers warn this could lead to:
- Skyrocketing demand for local recruits with few replacements ready
Industry groups say this decision, if not paired with higher pay and better working conditions, may cripple the UK’s care system.
What Are Your Alternatives Visa Options in UK Now?
If you were eyeing the UK as a care destination, don’t lose hope. You’ve still got options — and here are the smartest pivots you can make now:
| Country | Visa Type | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Home Support Worker Pilot | PR pathway, family sponsorship, no LMIA needed for some roles |
| Germany | Pflegekraft Visa (Nursing/Care Visa) | German language required, visa sponsorship by care facilities |
| Australia | Skilled Work Visa (Subclass 482/186) | Employer sponsorship, nursing and aged care roles in high demand |
| Sweden | Shortage Occupation Work Visa | Care roles on shortage list, family-friendly policies |
| New Zealand | Accredited Employer Work Visa | Aged care workers included on Green List; pathway to residence |
| Singapore | S Pass (Healthcare Sector) | For trained professionals; no permanent route, but well-paying jobs |
| Ireland | General Employment Permit | Healthcare assistants can qualify; PR after 5 years |
Frequently Asked Questions:
What has changed?
New overseas care worker visa applications are no longer being accepted, as announced in May 2025. The route has now closed to fresh applications from abroad
When does the change take effect?
Effective immediately (from the white paper announcement in May 2025).
Existing care workers already in the UK can extend visas, switch sponsors, or apply for settlement until 2028Why was this route closed?
To reduce reliance on overseas staff and shift focus to training UK-born care workers, amid concerns about exploitation in the sector
