International Recruitment
International recruitment of adult care workers is gathering pace in Cornwall and over 50 care businesses operating in the county have now applied to become sponsors. Workers can apply to come to the UK to work under a Health and Care Worker Visa provided they meet the visa eligibility requirements and the employer holds a valid sponsorship licence.
International recruitment is an effective way to enhance and diversify your workforce. However, is not straightforward and there have been recent changes to immigration policy and the rules around employing international workers. Please see below the answers to some frequently asked questions:
What are the latest updates and changes?
See the recent Home Office changes to UK immigration rules (9 April 2025)
Other information, including local support, can be found in the latest PtC newsletter
The Health and Safety Executive have published the following guidance for employers – Employing migrant workers: protecting their health and safety (HSE)
How do I apply for a licence?
Can I sponsor workers already in the UK?
Yes. There are two types of Certificates of Sponsorship – defined and undefined. Defined is to sponsor individuals who are currently overseas, whereas Undefined is for international workers already in the UK who are looking to change sponsor.
In fact, the government are prioritising the recruitment of international visa holders already living in the UK over other immigration routes.
Can I employ an international worker without a licence?
Sponsored employees must work full time with their sponsor to meet their visa requirements. However, they are allowed to have a second job for a maximum of 20 hours a week with a secondary employer. Care providers who don’t hold a sponsorship licence can employ these individuals part time.
International students are also allowed to work 20 hours per week without needing sponsorship.
Internationals who are in the UK on a Dependants visa are permitted to work full time without needing an employer to sponsor them.
Individuals on a Graduate Visa can also work full-time without needing a sponsor.
What support is available in the community for international staff?
Rice and Peas, Black Voices Cornwall and Inspiring Women Network are all Voluntary Sector organisations in Cornwall able to support with inclusion, wellbeing and networking.
The charity, Unseen, have a national Helpline available to report any welfare concerns. You can call the number 08000 121 700 or visit their website.
There is also guidance on the Government website on Modern slavery: how to identify and support victims – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
