1. Introduction to UK Nanny Visas
Nannies seeking employment in the UK have several visa options, depending on their nationality, qualifications, and the family’s circumstances. While there isn’t a specific “nanny visa,” certain visas allow nannies to live and work legally in the UK. Families hiring nannies must ensure they sponsor eligible candidates through appropriate visa routes to stay compliant with UK immigration laws.
2. Common Visa Options for Nannies in the UK
The most common visa routes for nannies in the UK include:
- Skilled Worker Visa: For nannies employed by families willing to sponsor them through the Skilled Worker route.
- Youth Mobility Scheme Visa: For young adults from eligible countries looking for short-term nanny roles.
- Ancestry Visa: For individuals with UK ancestry who qualify to work in the UK.
- Domestic Worker in a Private Household Visa: For nannies accompanying their current employer to the UK.
Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria, so selecting the appropriate one is crucial.
3. Skilled Worker Visa: Main Route for Nannies
The Skilled Worker Visa is the most common option for nannies employed by UK families willing to sponsor them.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Job Offer and Sponsorship: The family or employer must have a sponsor license and issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the nanny.
- Minimum Salary Requirement: The nanny’s salary must meet the minimum requirement, typically around £26,200 annually.
- English Language Proficiency: The nanny must demonstrate English proficiency, often through an IELTS test.
- Skill Level Requirement: Nanny roles must meet the RQF Level 3 threshold, which includes skilled childcare work.
- Application Process:
- Secure Job Offer and CoS: The family must obtain a sponsorship license if they don’t already have one and issue a CoS.
- Complete Online Application: The nanny applies online and pays the relevant visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: The nanny submits fingerprints and a photo at a visa application center.
The Skilled Worker Visa is typically valid for up to 5 years and can be extended or used as a pathway to permanent residency.
4. Youth Mobility Scheme Visa: Short-Term Nanny Work
The Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is ideal for nannies from specific countries who want to work in the UK temporarily.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Age Requirement: Must be between 18 and 30 years old.
- Nationality: Must hold citizenship from an eligible country, including Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea, among others.
- Financial Requirement: Proof of at least £2,530 in savings.
- Application Process:
- Submit Online Application: Complete the application form and pay the visa fee and IHS.
- Provide Financial Documentation: Submit proof of sufficient funds.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: Submit biometric information as part of the application.
The Youth Mobility Visa is valid for 2 years and cannot be extended. However, it allows the holder to work in nanny roles without sponsorship, making it a popular choice for young adults.
5. Domestic Worker in a Private Household Visa
This visa is for nannies who already work as domestic workers abroad and wish to accompany their employer to the UK.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Existing Employment: The nanny must have worked for the employer for at least 12 months before applying.
- Employment Arrangement: They must continue working in the private household, providing full-time childcare or household support.
- Financial Independence: Proof of financial independence and that the nanny will receive adequate wages and working conditions in the UK.
- Application Process:
- Get Employer’s Documentation: The employer should provide proof of the nanny’s prior employment and terms of continued work.
- Apply for the Visa Online: Complete the visa application, pay the fee, and the IHS.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: Submit fingerprints and photo at a visa application center.
The Domestic Worker Visa is typically valid for up to 6 months and is non-renewable.
6. UK Ancestry Visa for Commonwealth Citizens
The UK Ancestry Visa is a unique route for individuals from Commonwealth countries with a grandparent born in the UK. This visa allows them to work freely, including in nanny roles.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Commonwealth Citizenship: Applicants must be from a Commonwealth country.
- UK-born Grandparent: Proof of at least one grandparent born in the UK.
- Financial Requirement: Evidence of funds to support oneself without public funds.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 17 or older.
The Ancestry Visa is valid for 5 years, is renewable, and can lead to permanent residency.
7. General Requirements for All UK Nanny Visas
For each visa type, nannies will need to meet some general requirements:
- Valid Passport: Proof of nationality and at least six months validity.
- Proof of Financial Means: Documentation showing funds to support oneself if necessary.
- Medical Clearance and Health Surcharge: Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to the NHS during the stay.
- Proof of Employment Arrangement: A contract or job offer letter outlining job responsibilities and pay.
Providing complete documentation for each requirement improves the likelihood of approval.
8. Costs and Processing Times for UK Nanny Visas
The costs and processing times vary by visa type:
- Skilled Worker Visa: Application fees range from £625 to £1,423. The IHS is £624 per year.
- Youth Mobility Scheme Visa: The fee is approximately £259, plus IHS.
- Domestic Worker Visa: Fees are £259, and the IHS depends on the length of stay.
Processing times are generally 3–8 weeks, depending on the visa type and country of application. Priority processing is available for an extra fee.
9. Renewing or Switching Visas as a Nanny in the UK
Certain visas allow for renewal or switching:
- Skilled Worker Visa: Can be renewed or used as a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
- Youth Mobility Scheme Visa: Non-renewable but allows switching to the Skilled Worker Visa if the nanny secures a sponsored job.
- Ancestry Visa: Renewable, with the possibility of applying for ILR after 5 years.
Switching or extending the visa depends on the type, current status, and eligibility for other visa categories.
10. Tips for Families Hiring a Nanny on a Visa
Families hiring a nanny on a visa should:
- Confirm Sponsorship Status: For Skilled Worker Visas, the family must be an approved sponsor or obtain a sponsorship license.
- Understand Legal Obligations: Employers must adhere to minimum wage laws and ensure proper working conditions.
- Consider Application Timing: Start the process early to avoid delays, especially if the nanny is applying from outside the UK.
These considerations can help ensure a smooth hiring process and compliance with UK immigration laws.
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can a family directly sponsor a nanny on a work visa?
A: Yes, families can sponsor nannies through the Skilled Worker Visa, but they must have a sponsor license.
Q2: Can a nanny work multiple jobs in the UK?
A: Nannies on certain visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, may take a second job if it’s on the shortage occupation list, but primary duties must remain with the sponsoring employer.
Q3: Can nannies switch from a Tourist Visa to a work visa in the UK?
A: No, switching from a Tourist Visa to a work visa is not permitted. They must apply for the appropriate work visa from outside the UK.
Q4: What is the minimum salary for nannies on a Skilled Worker Visa?
A: Generally, it’s around £26,200 per year, though it depends on specific job roles and the “going rate” for the occupation.
Q5: Can I hire a nanny on a Youth Mobility Visa?
A: Yes, nannies on a Youth Mobility Visa are eligible to work in the UK, but this visa is limited to 2 years and is non-renewable.
Q6: Are nannies on a work visa allowed to bring dependents?
A: Yes, most work visas allow dependents to accompany the primary visa holder, provided financial support requirements are met.