Veterinary Jobs In UK With Visa Sponsorship

The veterinary profession in the United Kingdom is a vibrant and rewarding field, offering diverse opportunities for professionals worldwide. With a growing demand for skilled veterinarians and veterinary nurses, the UK has become an attractive destination for international candidates seeking to advance their careers. For non-UK residents, securing a veterinary job with visa sponsorship is a critical pathway to working legally in the country.

The country faces a persistent shortage of qualified veterinarians, particularly in rural areas and specialized fields like farm and equine veterinary medicine. This shortage has led to an increased willingness among employers to sponsor visas for overseas professionals. According to industry reports, the demand for veterinary surgeons and nurses remains strong, with over 1,000 veterinary job postings on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and many offering visa sponsorship to attract global talent.

Veterinary Jobs In UK With Visa Sponsorship

Visa sponsorship is particularly crucial for non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals and, post-Brexit, for some EU nationals as well. The Skilled Worker visa, formerly known as the Tier 2 visa, is the primary route for veterinarians and veterinary nurses to work in the UK. This visa allows professionals to live and work in the UK for up to five years, with the possibility of renewal or applying for indefinite leave to remain. Understanding the requirements and processes for securing these jobs is essential for a successful transition.

This visa is designed for roles classified at the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 6 or above, which includes veterinary surgeons (occupation code 2216). Veterinary nurses may also qualify under specific conditions, though their roles are typically at NQF Level 3, requiring additional scrutiny to meet visa criteria.

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, candidates must meet several requirements:

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by an employer with an A-rated sponsor license, this certificate confirms the job offer and role details.
Minimum Salary Threshold: As of April 2024, veterinary surgeons must earn at least £48,100 annually (based on a 37.5-hour workweek at £24.67 per hour). Veterinary nurses require a minimum of £38,700 for those over 26.
English Language Proficiency: Candidates whose first language is not English must demonstrate a B1 level of proficiency on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale, typically through tests like IELTS or OET. Exemptions apply if the candidate’s veterinary degree was taught in English or if they are from an English-speaking country.
RCVS Registration: Veterinary surgeons must register with the RCVS, which may require passing the Statutory Membership Exam if their degree is not recognized by the RCVS. Veterinary nurses must also meet RCVS registration criteria, which may involve a Pre-Registration Exam for non-accredited qualifications.

The visa application process typically takes one month, provided all documentation is complete. Costs include the visa application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access, and potential employer-specific fees like the Skills Charge. Many employers, such as VetPartners and Medivet, cover these costs as part of their sponsorship packages, easing the financial burden on candidates.

Veterinary Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship

Please note that specific job details, such as application deadlines and exact salaries, should be verified directly with employers, as they may change.

Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon – Medivet, London
- Location: London (Tooting and Streatham branches)
- Salary: Up to £70,000 DOE + £5,000 joining bonus
- Details: Medivet, an A-rated sponsor, offers a Skilled Worker visa and RCVS registration support. The role involves routine health checks and advanced surgeries, with a £1,500 CPD package for professional development.
- Contact: Apply via careers.medivet.co.uk
Equine Veterinary Surgeon – SES Equine Veterinary Services, Wicklow/Kildare, Ireland (UK-adjacent role)
- Location: Wicklow/Kildare, Ireland (accessible for UK candidates)
- Salary: €50,000–€75,000 pro rata
- Details: This seasonal role focuses on thoroughbred stud farms, including artificial breeding and ambulatory care. Visa sponsorship is available for eligible candidates.
- Contact: Apply via www.kookaburravets.com
Mixed Veterinary Surgeon – The Vet Service, Cumbria
- Location: Cumbria
- Salary: Up to £65,000 DOE
- Details: A dynamic role in a supportive clinical team, offering visa sponsorship and relocation packages. Ideal for candidates with mixed animal experience.
- Contact: Register at www.thevetservice.com
Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon – Plunketts Veterinary Surgery, Kent
- Location: Kent
- Salary: £45,000–£60,000
- Details: A modern, purpose-built practice with orthopedic equipment. Visa sponsorship and flexible hours are available.
- Contact: Apply via www.vetcollection.co.uk
Veterinary Surgeon – VetPartners, Nationwide
- Location: Various UK locations (over 500 sites)
- Salary: £40,000–£70,000 DOE
- Details: VetPartners, an A-rated sponsor, supports over 400 visa applications with comprehensive relocation packages, including flights and accommodation.
- Contact: Apply via www.vetpartners.co.uk
Locum Veterinary Surgeon – VetPro Recruitment, West Midlands
- Location: West Midlands
- Salary: £350–£500 per day
- Details: Short-term shifts between June and July 2025, with visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. Ideal for flexible work arrangements.
- Contact: Contact Kelly at VetPro Recruitment (07584 311…)
Veterinary Surgeon – Vetted Recruitment, East London/Essex
- Location: East London/Essex border
- Salary: Up to £60,000
- Details: Part-time out-of-hours role with a small animal practice. Visa sponsorship and relocation support are provided.
- Contact: Apply via www.vettedrecruitment.co.uk
Head Veterinary Nurse – The Vet Service, Nationwide
- Location: Various UK locations
- Salary: £38,700–£45,000
- Details: Leadership role for experienced nurses, with visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. Requires RCVS registration.
- Contact: Register at www.thevetservice.com
Government Veterinary Surgeon – APHA, Nationwide
- Location: Various UK locations
- Salary: £45,000–£60,000
- Details: Roles involve public health, animal welfare, and policy work. Visa sponsorship is available for experienced candidates.
- Contact: Apply via Civil Service Jobs (www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk)
Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon – Vetted Recruitment, Greater Manchester
- Location: Greater Manchester
- Salary: £50,000–£70,000
- Details: Join a supportive veterinary group with visa sponsorship and CPD opportunities. Ideal for candidates with small animal experience.
- Contact: Apply via www.vettedrecruitment.co.uk
Veterinary Surgeon – DNAVetcare, London
- Location: London
- Salary: Up to £65,000
- Details: Full-time role in a modern practice, with visa sponsorship and discounted vet fees for employees’ pets.
- Contact: Apply via DNAVetcare jobs
Equine Veterinary Surgeon – The Vet Service, Nationwide
- Location: Various UK locations
- Salary: £50,000–£70,000
- Details: Focus on equine care with visa sponsorship and support for RCVS registration.
- Contact: Register at www.thevetservice.com
Veterinary Surgeon – Spring Lodge Veterinary Group, Witham
- Location: Witham
- Salary: £45,000–£60,000
- Details: Role includes animal care and laboratory tasks, with visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.
- Contact: Apply via Spring Lodge Veterinary Group jobs
Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon – Vetted Recruitment, Kent
- Location: Kent
- Salary: £50,000–£65,000
- Details: Independent, family-run hospital offering visa sponsorship and certificate sponsorship for further training.
- Contact: Apply via www.vettedrecruitment.co.uk
Veterinary Care Assistant – PDSA, Leeds
- Location: Leeds
- Salary: Up to £28,000
- Details: Support role involving patient care and hygiene, with visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.
- Contact: Apply via PDSA jobs

How to Find Veterinary Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

Securing a veterinary job with visa sponsorship requires a strategic approach. Here are practical steps to enhance your job search:

Research Employers: Focus on A-rated sponsors like VetPartners, Medivet, and IVC Evidensia, which have established visa sponsorship programs. Check their websites or contact them directly for current vacancies.
Use Job Platforms: Websites like Vet Times Jobs (jobs.vettimes.com), Indeed (uk.indeed.com), and The Vet Service (www.thevetservice.com) list visa-sponsored roles. Filter searches with terms like “visa sponsorship” or “Skilled Worker visa.”
Leverage Recruitment Agencies: Agencies like Vetted Recruitment and VetPro Recruitment specialize in veterinary roles and offer personalized support for international candidates, including visa guidance.
Network Professionally: Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to connect with UK veterinary practices and recruiters. Joining groups like the British Veterinary Association can also provide job leads.
Prepare Documentation: Ensure your CV highlights relevant qualifications, experience, and English proficiency. Obtain RCVS registration early to avoid delays.

Benefits of Working as a Veterinary Professional in the UK

Veterinary jobs in the UK offer numerous benefits beyond competitive salaries:

Professional Development: Employers like Medivet and VetPartners provide CPD packages, certificate sponsorship, and internal training to enhance skills.
Work-Life Balance: Many practices offer flexible hours, part-time roles, or 4.5-day workweeks, as seen in roles at SES Equine Veterinary Services.
Relocation Support: Comprehensive packages, including accommodation, flights, and vehicles, ease the transition for international candidates.
Diverse Opportunities: From small animal practices in urban centers to farm roles in rural areas, the UK offers varied career paths.

The demand for veterinary professionals in the UK is expected to remain strong through 2025 and beyond, driven by ongoing shortages and an aging pet population. The government’s commitment to food safety and animal welfare further boosts opportunities in public sector roles. As corporate practices expand, visa sponsorship programs are likely to grow, making it easier for international candidates to secure roles.

Conclusion

Veterinary jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship present a golden opportunity for international professionals to build fulfilling careers in a globally respected industry. By understanding the Skilled Worker visa requirements, securing RCVS registration, and targeting reputable employers, candidates can successfully enter the UK job market. With strategic planning and persistence, international veterinary professionals can thrive in the UK, contributing to animal welfare while advancing their careers.