With the UK facing growing demand for animal care services, the Skilled Worker Visa route offers exciting opportunities for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses from abroad to live and work in the UK. However, understanding the eligibility criteria, visa costs, and employer obligations—especially repayment clauses—is essential for both applicants and sponsoring employers.
1. Skilled Worker Visa Overview
The Skilled Worker Visa allows non-UK nationals to come and work in an eligible job with a UK-licensed sponsor. For veterinary professionals, this includes:
Veterinary surgeons (SOC 2240)
Veterinary nurses (SOC 3240)
2. Eligibility Criteria
Veterinary Surgeons
To be eligible, you must:
Have a job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office.
Be paid a minimum salary of:
£33,670 per year or £17.27 per hour (new entrant)
£48,100 per year or £24.67 per hour (if not a new entrant) – as of April 2024
(this is based on 37.5 hours per week so will be higher for a standard 40-hour contract)
Hold a degree in veterinary medicine recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS)
Be registered (or in the process of registering) with the RCVS
Veterinary Nurses
Eligibility requirements include:
A job offer from a sponsoring UK veterinary practice
A minimum salary of:
£30,960 per year or £15.88 per hour (new entrant)
£38,700 per year or £19.85 per hour (if not a new entrant)
(this is based on 37.5 hours per week so will be higher for a standard 40-hour contract)
Appropriate qualifications and registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) as a veterinary nurse
3. New Entrant Conditions
The UK visa system allows certain individuals to qualify as “new entrants”, which offers a lower salary threshold. You may qualify if:
· Under 26 and applying for your first UK job
· Switching from a Student or Graduate visa (already in UK)
· In a postdoctoral role (where the PHD is a requirement)
· Working toward professional registration/chartered status in a regulated profession
4. Visa Application Costs
As of June 2025, the following fees apply:
Fee Component | Main Applicant |
Visa fee (up to 3 years) | £769 – £885 |
Visa fee (over 3 years) | £1,519 - £1,751 |
Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year |
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | Paid by employer (~£525) |
Admin/biometric fee | ~£200 |
Total estimated cost (3 years): ~£4,000–£4,500 depending on duration and individual circumstances.
Note: Some employers cover part or all of the fees, but may require repayment.
5. Employment Contracts & Repayment Clauses
Many UK veterinary employers now include repayment clauses in employment contracts to protect their investment in sponsoring international recruits. These clauses typically cover:
Visa application costs
RCVS registration fees
Relocation or onboarding support
Common conditions:
These repayments usually work on a sliding scale—the longer you stay, the less you owe. Always request a copy of your employment contract in advance and seek legal advice if unsure.
6. Final Tips for Applicants
Register with the RCVS early—it can take time, especially for overseas qualifications.
Confirm sponsorship status—your employer must hold a valid Sponsor Licence.
Prepare for life in the UK—cost of living, accommodation, and transport vary by region, so do your research
Ask about support—some practices offer relocation packages, mentorship, or help with integration.
Ready to Apply?
Vetted Recruitment Limited are the only veterinary recruiter who are permitted to give immigration advice for those coming to work in the UK and we are registered with the Immigration Advice Authority. Please get in touch at contactus@vettedrecruitment.co.uk