How to Secure a UK Certificate of Sponsorship as a Healthcare Worker: The 2025 Guide

27 Nov 2025

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For doctors, nurses, and senior carers, the UK Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is the golden ticket you need to apply for your Health and Care Worker visa. It’s not a physical document but a unique electronic reference number that your UK employer generates to prove they are sponsoring you.

Securing this CoS is the most critical step in your journey. This guide breaks down exactly what it is, the different types, and a step-by-step strategy to get one in 2025.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic record assigned to you by a UK employer with a valid Sponsor Licence. It contains details about you and the role you’ve been offered. You need the reference number from this certificate to complete your visa application.

Key Points:

It’s not a physical certificate or paper document.
It does not guarantee you will get a visa, but you cannot get a visa without it.
It is tied to the specific employer and job that sponsored you.

The Two Types of Certificates of Sponsorship

Understanding which one you need is crucial, as the process is different for each.

1. Defined Certificate of Sponsorship (for applicants OUTSIDE the UK)

This is the type you will apply for if you are recruiting from outside the UK.

The Process: Your employer must first apply to the Home Office for this type of CoS specifically for you. They may need to prove they couldn’t fill the role with a settled worker (though this is often waived for health and care roles).
Key Feature: It requires an extra step of approval from the Home Office before it can be assigned to you.

2. Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship (for applicants INSIDE the UK)

This type is used for workers already in the UK who are switching jobs or visas.

The Process: The employer can assign this CoS directly from their annual allocation without needing prior approval from the Home Office.
Key Feature: The process is faster as it doesn’t require a separate application.

Click Here To Learn More: Best Healthcare Jobs That Are in High Demand Worldwide

Your 5-Step Action Plan to Secure a CoS

You cannot apply for a CoS yourself. It must be done by your employer. Therefore, your strategy must focus on securing a job offer from the right organisation.

Step 1: Secure Your UK Professional Registration (Non-Negotiable)

You cannot get a CoS for a regulated profession without being registered with the relevant UK body. This is the most important preparatory step.

For Nurses: You must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This process involves a computer-based test (CBT) and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE).
For Doctors: You must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) with a licence to practise.
For Senior Carers: While not a registered profession, you must prove you meet the skill level and requirements for the SOC code 6146.

Action: Start the registration process with your professional body before you seriously begin job hunting. Mentioning your “NMC Pin in progress” or “GMC registration” on your CV makes you a much more attractive candidate.

Step 2: Target the Right Employers (Sponsor Licence Holders)

Your job search must be focused on organisations that hold a valid UK Sponsor Licence. Applying to organisations without one is a waste of time.

Where to Find Sponsoring Employers:

NHS Trusts: Virtually every NHS Trust in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland holds a sponsor licence. They are the largest recruiters of international health staff.
- Examples: Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
Large Private Healthcare Providers: Companies like BMI Healthcare, Nuffield Health, and HCA Healthcare.
Large Care Home Chains: Providers like HC-One, Barchester Healthcare, Bupa, and Care UK sponsor Senior Care Workers (SOC 6146). Note: The standard “Care Worker” visa route is closed.

How to Check for a Sponsor Licence:

Use the UK Government’s official Register of Licensed Sponsors.
Search for the organisation by name.
Ensure their licence is still “A-rated” (active and in good standing).

Step 3: Excel in the Job Application & Interview

Tailor Your CV: Create a UK-style CV (2 pages max). Clearly state your professional registration status (e.g., “NMC Pin: XYZ123” or “NMC Application in Progress”).
Ace the Virtual Interview: Be prepared to discuss your clinical experience, the UK’s healthcare values (e.g., the NHS Constitution), and your eligibility to work in the UK. Research the Trust or care provider thoroughly.
Ask the Right Question: It is perfectly acceptable to ask, “Can you confirm this role is eligible for sponsorship under the Health and Care Worker visa?”

Step 4: Your Employer Requests and Assigns the CoS

Once you accept a job offer, your employer will handle the CoS application.

If you are outside the UK, they will apply for a Defined CoS. This can take the Home Office several weeks to approve. Once approved, they assign it to you.
If you are inside the UK, they will assign you an Undefined CoS from their allocation.

You will then receive an email with your CoS reference number.

Step 5: Use the CoS to Apply for Your Visa

With the CoS number in hand, you can now complete your Health and Care Worker visa application online. You will need to enter this number as part of the process.

Inside an Employer’s Mind: The Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT)

For a Defined CoS, employers historically had to prove they couldn’t fill the role with a UK-based worker (the RLMT). However, the good news for healthcare workers is that most health and care occupations are exempt from the RLMT.

This means employers can hire you without having to advertise the role for 28 days, significantly reducing the time it takes to fill the position.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Paying for a CoS: A legitimate employer will never ask you to pay for the Certificate of Sponsorship. The cost is their responsibility.
Applying to Non-Sponsors: Wasting time on employers who cannot sponsor you. Always check the sponsor list first.
Incorrect Professional Registration: Applying for nursing jobs before you have your NMC PIN or have at least started the process.
Letting Your CoS Expire: You must apply for your visa within 3 months of the CoS being assigned to you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long is a Certificate of Sponsorship valid for?
A: You have 3 months to apply for your visa from the date it is assigned to you.

Q: Can I change jobs after I get my visa?
A: Yes, but you will need a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer and must apply to update your visa.

Q: How long does it take to get a Defined CoS?
A: The Home Office aims to process Defined CoS applications within 8 weeks, but it can sometimes be faster for healthcare roles.

Q: What information is on the CoS?
A: It includes your personal details, job title, salary, sponsor licence number, and the start and end date of your employment.

Your 2025 CoS Checklist

Obtained/Initiated my UK professional registration (NMC, GMC, etc.).
Researched and identified NHS Trusts and care providers with a valid Sponsor Licence.
Tailored my CV to UK standards and highlighted my registration status.
Secured a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
Received my CoS reference number from my employer.
Ready to submit my Health and Care Worker visa application.

Securing a Certificate of Sponsorship is a process that hinges on preparation and partnership with a licensed employer. By focusing on your professional registration and targeting the right organisations, you can successfully obtain your CoS and take the final step toward your UK healthcare career.

Your skills are in high demand. Start your targeted job search today!

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