Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship UK 2026
Nursing is one of the UK's most-sponsored roles. The NHS actively recruits internationally trained nurses — and Registered Nurses are on the Immigration Salary List, qualifying at lower salary thresholds.
Search Nursing Sponsorship Jobs →Why the UK Needs International Nurses
The NHS faces a persistent shortage of registered nurses. As a result, UK healthcare employers — NHS Trusts and private hospitals alike — hold Skilled Worker sponsor licences and actively recruit nurses from countries including India, Philippines, Nigeria, Ghana and Zimbabwe.
Importantly, Registered General Nurses (RGN) are listed on the UK's Immigration Salary List, which means the standard £38,700 salary threshold does not apply. Sponsored nurses can qualify at NHS Band 5 salaries (approximately £29,970+), making nursing one of the most accessible pathways to a UK Skilled Worker visa.
Once you have NMC registration (or are on the pathway to it), SponsorshipJobs.io lists all the NHS Trusts and healthcare providers actively offering nursing sponsorship.
UK Nursing Salary Bands (2026)
| Band | Role | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Band 5 | Registered Nurse (newly qualified) | £29,970 – £36,483 |
| Band 6 | Senior Nurse / Specialist | £37,338 – £44,962 |
| Band 7 | Advanced Nurse Practitioner | £46,148 – £52,809 |
| Band 8a | Nurse Consultant / Manager | £53,755 – £60,504 |
*Band 5 nurses qualify under the Immigration Salary List at lower than standard threshold. Verify current rates on the Home Office guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can nurses get visa sponsorship in the UK?
Yes — nursing is one of the most sponsored roles in the UK. The NHS and private healthcare providers regularly hire nurses from overseas on the Skilled Worker visa. Registered Nurses (RGN) are on the Immigration Salary List, meaning they may qualify at lower salary thresholds than other roles.
What is the salary for a sponsored nurse in the UK?
NHS nurses are paid on national pay bands. Band 5 (newly registered nurses) starts at approximately £29,970–£36,483 per year. This is below the standard £38,700 Skilled Worker threshold but nurses qualify under the Immigration Salary List at a lower rate. The exact qualifying salary is updated periodically.
How do I become a sponsored nurse in the UK?
To work as a nurse in the UK you need NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) registration. You can apply before arriving via the CBT (Computer Based Test) pathway. Once registered, you apply for roles on SponsorshipJobs.io or directly with NHS Trusts, receive a Certificate of Sponsorship, and apply for your Skilled Worker visa.
Which NHS Trusts sponsor nurses from overseas?
Most NHS Trusts in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland hold Skilled Worker sponsor licences. Large Trusts including NHS England, UCLH, King's College Hospital, Manchester University NHS and many more regularly recruit internationally trained nurses.