The UK is actively recruiting qualified healthcare professionals—and Ukrainian medical workers are in demand. If you’re a doctor, nurse, or allied health professional hoping to work in the UK, you’ll be glad to know there are several roles that offer visa sponsorship and are relatively accessible if you meet the basic requirements.
Here’s a guide to the roles that are most in demand and realistic entry points for Ukrainian professionals.
1. Healthcare Assistant (HCA)
- Visa Type: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Ease of Entry: High
- Requirements: Basic English, compassion, willingness to train
- Qualifications Needed: No formal degree required; training provided on the job
Many Ukrainian medical professionals begin as HCAs while they work toward recognition of their qualifications. It’s a practical first step and often comes with visa sponsorship, especially from NHS trusts and care homes.
2. Registered Nurse
- Visa Type: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Ease of Entry: Moderate (due to required exams)
- Requirements: English language test (OET or IELTS) and registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
- Support: Many employers offer help with exam prep, registration, and relocation
If you’re trained as a nurse in Ukraine, this can be a direct route. The UK has a high demand for nurses, and many employers are willing to support you through the process.
3. Senior Carer
- Visa Type: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Ease of Entry: Moderate
- Requirements: Experience in care or nursing, basic English
- Advantage: Medical training from Ukraine is often helpful
Senior carers are in demand across the UK. If you have a background in nursing or caregiving, this can be a strong option, especially in the private care sector.
4. Medical Doctor (General Practitioner or Specialty Doctor)
- Visa Type: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Ease of Entry: Moderate to challenging
- Requirements: Pass English test (OET or IELTS), PLAB exams or qualify via GMC registration
- Support: The NHS offers dedicated programs for international doctors
While this route involves more steps, it leads to rewarding, well-compensated roles. Many Ukrainian doctors successfully enter the NHS through the PLAB exam route.
5. Radiographers, Physiotherapists, and Other Allied Health Roles
- Visa Type: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Ease of Entry: Moderate
- Requirements: Degree in your field, registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and English proficiency
- Support: Many positions come with relocation packages
These roles are on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List, which means the visa process is faster and sponsorship is common.
Tips for Success
- Improve Your English: The OET or IELTS is required for most roles—start early with preparation.
- Check Recognition of Qualifications: Depending on your role, you may need registration with bodies like the NMC, GMC, or HCPC.
- Apply to Trusted Employers: Look for jobs on NHS websites or with employers that clearly offer visa sponsorship.
- Stay Updated: Immigration rules can change—rely on trusted sources or organizations for guidance.
How the Ukrainian Medical Charity Can Help
At the Ukrainian Medical Charity (UMC), our mission is to support Ukrainian healthcare professionals as they build new careers in the UK. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or are ready to apply, we’re here to help.
For our members we provide:
- Trusted advice on career paths and visa processes
- Resources to help you prepare for English exams and professional registration
- Job opportunities from employers who sponsor work visas
- Connection to the Ukrainian medical community in the UK—so you can learn directly from others who’ve been through the process
- Personalised guidance for UMC members
👉 Join our social media to receive regular updates on job opportunities, licensing tips, and upcoming webinars.
Or become a member to access one-on-one career support, networking events, and priority referrals to UK employers.
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. The UMC is here to help you every step of the way—connecting you with the right information, the right people, and the right opportunities.
