SOC code 6136: Senior care workers

You cannot bring a new worker in SOC code 6136 (Senior care workers) from abroad: that closed on 22 July 2025. A care worker already in the UK on another visa can switch to sponsorship with you after working for you for at least 3 months.

  • New hire from abroadNoclosed since 22 July 2025
  • Worker already in the UKCan switchafter at least 3 months working for you
  • Lowest salary£33,400a year on 37.5 hours
  • On the salary list until22 July 2028in England, CQC-registered providers only

Figures from Appendix Skilled Occupations, Immigration Rules.

Who you can sponsor in SOC code 6136

The code stays on the immigration salary list until 22 July 2028, so the floor is £33,400 or the going rate, whichever is higher. In England only a sponsor registered with the Care Quality Commission and carrying on a regulated activity can sponsor this job; private households cannot.

Workers you already sponsor in the code can extend with you. The GOV.UK Health and Care Worker job list sets out the switching rule.

SOC code 6136 in the official tables

The row for 6136 in Appendix Skilled Occupations and the two lists, as published
As publishedExtending or switching only: Workers already in the UK; new hires from abroad closed 22 July 2025
Skill levelRQF 3 to 5
Going rate£33,400 a year (37.5 hours a week)
New entrant rate (70%)£33,400
Immigration salary listListed until 22 July 2028: all jobs, except jobs with a working location in England are only eligible in this SOC 2020 occupation code where the sponsor holds registration with the Care Quality Commission and is currently carrying on a regulated activity
Temporary shortage listNot listed
Health and Care Worker visaExtending or switching only

Job titles in SOC code 6136

  • Senior community support workers
  • Senior home care workers
  • Senior residential care workers
  • Senior care workers not elsewhere classified

The duties decide the code, not the title alone. When a title could fit two codes, the CASCOT coding tool helps you pick.

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