UK Caregiver Visa Closed? These Countries Want You

Recently, the UK government introduced significant changes to its immigration policies, particularly affecting care workers. Notably:

Dependents Restriction: As of March 2024, overseas care workers and senior care workers are no longer permitted to bring dependents (spouses and children) under the Health and Care Worker Visa. Davidson Morris
Visa Curtailment: The number of caregiver visas has been curtailed, impacting the recruitment and employment of foreign care workers. @EconomicTimes

These policy shifts have led many aspiring caregivers to explore opportunities in other countries with more favourable immigration policies.

But here’s the good news:
The UK isn’t the only country looking for caregivers. Several other nations are actively recruiting and welcoming qualified professionals, often with fewer restrictions. So, where should you set your sights? Let’s talk about five countries actively seeking caregivers right now. Each offers unique opportunities, visa pathways, and supportive programs to welcome international caregivers.

Australia

Australia is known for its high standard of living and well-regulated healthcare sector. Caregivers are on the country’s radar as part of the essential healthcare workforce.

Visa Options for Caregivers: The Temporary Skill Shortage visa (Subclass 482) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491) are popular pathways.
Check visa details
Regional Incentives: If you work in regional or rural Australia, you might have easier visa access and better pay.
Registration Requirements: Depending on the role, registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) might be required.
AHPRA registration info

English Proficiency: You’ll usually need to demonstrate your English skills (IELTS or equivalent).

Germany

Germany has been ramping up efforts to attract international caregivers because of its growing elderly population and shortage of healthcare staff.

Skilled Immigration Act: This law simplifies the process for qualified non-EU caregivers to work in Germany.
Read the official guide
Recognition of Qualifications: Germany recognizes many international healthcare qualifications but expect to go through a recognition process (“Anerkennung”).
Qualification recognition info
Language Requirement: You’ll typically need B1 level German before starting work, but there are integration courses and language support programs.

Good Salary & Social Benefits: Caregivers enjoy decent wages and access to Germany’s excellent healthcare system.

Ireland

Ireland’s growing elderly population is driving demand for home care and nursing assistants.

Critical Skills Occupation List: Caregivers and healthcare assistants are included, easing visa procedures.
Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
Work Permits: Employment permits like the Critical Skills Employment Permit allow qualified caregivers to work and live in Ireland.
English: Being an English-speaking country, no language barrier for most Nigerian caregivers.

New Zealand

New Zealand is welcoming caregivers with open arms as part of its commitment to maintaining quality care for its aging population.

Green List Occupations: Caregivers are on New Zealand’s Green List, which means faster immigration processing.
See the Green List
Work-to-Residence Pathway: After working for two years in New Zealand, caregivers can apply for residence.
Language and Qualifications: You need relevant caregiving qualifications and English proficiency (usually IELTS 6.5).

Supportive Work Environment: New Zealand offers a balanced lifestyle and strong labor protections.

Norway

Norway’s strong welfare system means steady caregiver demand, particularly in eldercare.

Work Visa: Caregivers with relevant qualifications and job offers can apply for work permits.
Norwegian Directorate of Immigration
Language: Norwegian language skills improve your job prospects and integration.
Salary & Welfare: Caregivers enjoy high wages and excellent social benefits.

How to Prepare to Work Abroad as a Caregiver

Each country requires:

Accredited caregiver or healthcare assistant certification
Relevant experience (usually 4 months+)
Language proficiency (Finnish, German, English, Norwegian, or Swedish, depending on country)
Clean medical and police clearance certificates

Start Your Journey with CLI College Nigeria

Want to build a solid foundation for your caregiving career abroad? At CLI College Nigeria, our caregiver training programs are designed to equip you with the skills, certification, and confidence to thrive internationally.