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The UK’s ageing population and increasing demand for social care services continue to drive a significant shortage of care workers and home carers. Roles under SOC Code 6135 are critical in supporting vulnerable individuals and maintaining care standards across the country.

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For UK employers, sponsoring overseas care workers is a key strategy to address workforce shortages while remaining compliant with Home Office regulations.

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What Is SOC Code 6135 for Care Workers and Home Carers?

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SOC Code 6135 covers care workers and home carers who provide essential support in residential settings or private homes.

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Key Responsibilities Include:

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• Assisting with personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming).
• Administering medication under supervision.
• Providing emotional and social support.
• Supporting with daily household tasks.
• Monitoring and reporting health conditions.

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These roles are essential to the UK care system and remain in high demand.

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Eligibility to Hire Care Workers and Home Carers (SOC Code 6135)

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To sponsor overseas workers, both the role and candidate must meet Skilled Worker visa requirements.

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Job Requirements

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Employers must ensure candidates meet:

• Relevant qualifications (e.g. Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care).
• Practical experience in a care setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of safeguarding and UK care standards.

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Salary Thresholds (2026 Update)

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Salary requirements have increased under updated immigration rules.

• Standard Skilled Worker threshold: typically £41,700 or the going rate.
• Immigration Salary List roles (including 6135): may qualify at reduced thresholds (e.g. ~£33,400 standard rate / £25,000 lower rate depending on eligibility).

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Salary must always meet the correct SOC code going rate and visa rules.

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Immigration Salary List (ISL)

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Care workers under SOC 6135 are included on the Immigration Salary List.

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Key Benefits:

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• Lower salary thresholds compared to standard Skilled Worker roles.
• Reduced visa application fees.
• Easier eligibility under specific conditions.

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👉 See GOV.UK list:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/skilled-worker-visa-immigration-salary-list

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Sponsoring Care Workers and Home Carers: Step-by-Step Guide

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Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

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To hire overseas workers, your organisation must hold a valid sponsor licence.

• Apply via GOV.UK with supporting business documentation.
• Standard processing: up to 8 weeks.
• Priority service available (faster decisions).

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Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

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Once licensed, assign a CoS to the candidate.

• Defined CoS: for applicants outside the UK.
• Undefined CoS: for applicants inside the UK.

The CoS includes job role, salary, and employer details.

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Step 3: Worker Applies for Visa

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The candidate submits a visa application using the CoS.

• Health and Care Worker visa often applies (lower fees + faster processing).
• Supporting documents must be accurate and complete.

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Right to Work Checks for Care Workers

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Before employment begins, employers must verify the worker’s legal right to work.

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Methods:

• Online check (for eVisa holders).
• Manual document verification.

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👉 GOV.UK guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/check-job-applicant-right-to-work

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Post-Hiring Responsibilities and Compliance

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Maintaining compliance is critical for sponsor licence holders.

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Record Keeping and Reporting

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• Maintain accurate employee records.
• Report changes (salary, role, status) via Sponsor Management System (SMS).

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Sponsor Licence Duties

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Failure to comply can result in:

• Licence suspension or revocation.
• Civil penalties.
• Loss of sponsorship rights.

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How Annaizu Can Help

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Annaizu supports care providers with:

• Sponsor licence applications.
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) management.
• Immigration compliance and audits.
• End-to-end workforce immigration support.

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👉 Official GOV.UK source:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

For expert sponsorship and compliance support, visit:
https://www.annaizu.com/

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Conclusion

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Sponsoring care workers and home carers under SOC Code 6135 is essential for addressing workforce shortages in the UK care sector. While the process involves multiple compliance steps, it provides a sustainable solution for long-term staffing needs.

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Understanding salary thresholds, sponsorship duties, and immigration rules is key to ensuring successful recruitment and avoiding compliance risks.

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