If you open Facebook in Sri Lanka right now, you will see dozens of ads: “Work in UK! Care Worker Jobs! 100% Sponsorship!”

For many, the Health and Care Worker Visa is the golden ticket. It’s a pathway to earning in Pounds, living in the UK, and escaping the economic pressure at home.

But the rules in 2025 are not the same as they were in 2023.

The UK government has tightened the net. If you are planning to mortgage your house or sell your gold to pay an agent for this visa, you need to read this first. Here is the honest breakdown of what is possible, what is forbidden, and how to spot a scam.

1. Can I Bring My Family? (The Big Question)

 

Let’s rip the band-aid off immediately.

If you are applying as a “Care Worker” or “Senior Care Worker” (SOC Code 6145 or 6146), you generally CANNOT bring your partner or children.

This rule changed recently. Unless you are working in a high-level medical role (like a Doctor, Registered Nurse, or Radiographer), the “Care Worker” route is now a solo journey for most new applicants.

• The Reality: You will likely have to live in the UK alone for the duration of your visa, sending money back home.

• The Scam: If an agent tells you, “Don’t worry, we can bring your wife later,” get it in writing. Better yet, run away. They are likely lying to get your commission.

2. The “Certificate of Sponsorship” (CoS)

 

You cannot apply for this visa without a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

This is a digital reference number given to you by a UK employer (a Care Home or the NHS) that has a license to hire foreigners.

• The Rule: You should NEVER pay an employer for a CoS. It is illegal for a UK company to “sell” you a job.

• The Reality: Many “agents” in Sri Lanka charge Rs. 30-50 Lakhs to “arrange” this. Be very careful. If the UK Home Office finds out you paid for your job, your visa can be revoked, and you can be banned from the UK.

3. The Salary Threshold

 

To qualify, your job must pay a minimum salary. In 2025, the UK government increased general salary thresholds, but Care Workers have a specific “lower” rate because there is a shortage of staff.

You generally need to earn at least £23,200 (or £11.90 per hour), but this figure changes frequently.

• Check your contract: If your offer letter says you will be working 40 hours but only paid £18,000, the visa will be rejected. The numbers must match the Home Office requirements.

4. The English Requirement (IELTS UKVI)

 

You don’t need perfect English, but you need “Functional English.”

You must pass the IELTS for UKVI (General Training) with a score of 4.0 in each band (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening).

• Note: This is much easier than the “Academic IELTS” required for Nurses. 4.0 is a basic conversation level.

5. How to Find a LEGIT Job (Without an Agent)

 

Stop looking on Facebook. Start looking where the British employers look.

1. Trac.jobs: This is the official recruitment site for the NHS. It is free.

2. Indeed.co.uk: Search for “Care Assistant Sponsorship Available.”

3. Agencies: Look for UK-based recruitment agencies that are CQC Registered (Care Quality Commission).

Summary: Is it Worth It?

 

If you are single, willing to work hard (care work is physically demanding), and want to save serious money to send home, this is still an incredible opportunity. You can save £500-£800 a month after expenses if you live frugally.

But if your goal is to move your entire family to London immediately? This door has mostly closed. Don’t let an agent sell you a dream that expired in 2023.