UK closes door on Overseas Care Worker Visas: What this means for UAE-based applicants, explained

TL;DR
The UK has stopped issuing new Care Worker visas to applicants outside the country as of 22 July 2025.
UAE-based applicants can no longer apply for care assistant or senior care roles in the UK.
If you're already in the UK, some options still remain, but with strict rules.


If you're based in the UAE and hoping to move to the UK to work in the care sector, there’s been a major change. As of 22 July 2025, the UK government has officially closed the visa route that allowed overseas care workers to apply for jobs under the Skilled Worker visa .

This decision affects care assistants and senior care workers, roles that were previously open to foreign applicants to help fill staffing gaps. Many in the UAE used this path to start a new life in the UK. That option is now off the table.

The move is part of the UK’s efforts to lower immigration numbers and shift focus to hiring locally. It also comes after concerns about workers being mistreated under this visa route.

Why the Change?
The UK’s decision is part of a broader shift in immigration policy aimed at:

• Reducing net migration
• Curbing exploitation of migrant workers
• Prioritising local workforce development

The care worker role had previously been listed as a shortage occupation, making it easier and more affordable to access the UK labour market. That pathway is now closed to new applicants from abroad, including those residing in the UAE.


What If You’re Already in the UK?
If you're a UAE resident currently in the UK on a valid visa, you may still be able to move into a care job, but only if you meet the following:

• You switch before 22 July 2028
• You’ve worked at your current sponsor for at least 3 months
• Your employer can legally issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship

These conditions are tight and designed to avoid misuse of the system.

For Current Visa Holders
If you're already working in the UK under a Health and Care Worker visa, you don’t need to leave. Here’s what you can still do:

• Keep working until your visa runs out
• Extend your visa, if you qualify
• Switch jobs, as long as the new role is eligible
• Stay with your family, if they’re already included in your visa

But once your visa ends, getting back in for the same type of job may not be possible unless you meet new criteria.


What Other Options Do UAE Applicants Have?

This visa route is closed, but other doors are still open.

• 1. Skilled Worker Visas for Nurses or Allied Health Roles: If you're a qualified nurse or healthcare professional, you can still apply. These jobs are still on the shortage list.
• 2. Student Route: You can study a health-related course in the UK and then apply to stay under the post-study visa. Later, you might qualify for a Skilled Worker visa.
• 3. Other Shortage Occupations: Sectors like IT, construction, and engineering are hiring. If you have relevant skills, or are willing to retrain, these may be options.

What This Means for Employers
Care providers will now need to focus on hiring locally. They also have to keep existing migrant workers in line with the new rules. The government is tightening oversight, and breaking sponsorship rules could mean losing their licence.

What UAE-Based Applicants Should Do Now
If you planned to apply from the UAE under the care worker visa, you need to rethink your plans now. If you’re in the UK, talk to an immigration adviser soon. Check your visa status and explore what options remain.

Planning ahead matters, the door is closed for new care worker applications from overseas, but other paths may still be open.