Do you want to switch from Healthcare Assistant to Nurse in your career? Are you currently working in the UK as a healthcare assistant (HCA) on a health and care worker visa? Are you wondering whether it’s possible to progress your career and switch to a nursing role under the same visa category? You’re not alone. Many internationally recruited Healthcare Assistants are looking for ways to upgrade their qualifications and move up the NHS career ladder.
In this guide, we’ll explain whether you can switch from HCA to Nurse on a UK Health and Care Visa, the requirements, and the steps you’ll need to take to make it happen.
Can You Switch from HCA to Nurse on a Health and Care Visa?
Yes, you can — but with conditions.
The UK’s Health and Care Worker visa allows qualified healthcare professionals to work in eligible roles sponsored by a licensed employer. While an HCA role is eligible, so is the Registered Nurse role. This means if you meet the criteria to be a nurse in the UK, your current employer (or a new one) can sponsor you as a nurse under the same visa category.
However, switching from HCA to a nurse is not automatic. You must first become a Registered Nurse with the NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council).
Key Requirements to Switch from HCA to Nurse in the UK
To make the switch successfully, you’ll need to:
1. Meet the NMC Requirements
To register as a nurse in the UK, international applicants must:
- Hold a nursing qualification equivalent to a UK Level 6 qualification (bachelor’s degree or diploma in nursing)
- Pass an English language test (IELTS or OET)
- Pass the NMC Test of Competence (ToC), which includes:
- CBT (Computer-Based Test) – theory exam
- OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) – practical exam
Read Also: IELTS or OET for Health Care Assistants in UK: Do You Need It? (2025 Guide)
2. Get Your NMC PIN
Once you pass all the required tests and documentation checks, you’ll receive your NMC PIN — the number that allows you to legally practice as a nurse in the UK.
3. Secure a Job Offer as a Nurse
- You’ll need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the Registered Nurse role.
- Your current sponsor (employer) may be willing to upgrade your sponsorship from HCA to nurse once you obtain your PIN.
- Alternatively, you can switch to a new employer who is a licensed sponsor for nursing roles.
Can You Switch Employers as Well?
Yes, you can switch to a new employer within the same visa category, but you’ll need a new Certificate of Sponsorship and to apply to update your visa.
When Is the Best Time to Switch?
The best time is after you’ve received your NMC PIN. Until then, you cannot legally work or be sponsored as a nurse in the UK. Many HCAs begin their NMC registration journey while working, so they can switch roles as soon as they qualify.
Can Employers Help?
Some UK employers actively support Healthcare Assistants in becoming nurses by offering:
- OSCE preparation support
- Study leave or funding
- Bridging programmes or secondments
If you’re currently employed as an HCA, speak with your HR team about professional development opportunities. Some NHS trusts and care homes have dedicated pathways to support internal career progression.
Documents Needed to Switch from HCA to Nurse
- Valid passport
- Current visa/BRP
- New Certificate of Sponsorship (for the nurse role)
- NMC registration details (PIN)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Proof of passing CBT and OSCE
- Tuberculosis test (if required)
- Police clearance certificate (for new sponsorship)
Read Also: Daily Life of a Visa-Sponsored Health Care Assistant: Expectations vs Reality
Quick Summary
| Criteria | HCA | Nurse |
|---|---|---|
| NMC Registration Required? | No | Yes |
| IELTS/OET Required? | Usually (for a visa) | Yes (for NMC registration) |
| Eligible for Sponsorship? | Yes | Yes |
| Can Switch Roles Internally? | Only after gaining NMC PIN | Yes, if the employer agrees |
| Salary Threshold (April 2024) | £23,200+ (minimum) | £26,200+ (or NHS Band 5 equivalent) |
Conclusion
Yes — you can switch from HCA to nurse on a UK Health and Care Visa if you complete the NMC registration process and secure a new Certificate of Sponsorship for a nursing role. It’s a fantastic career progression path, and many employers support this transition. If you’re on this journey, start preparing early — take your IELTS/OET, start your NMC application, and talk to your employer about your nursing goals. If you have any questions, feel free to ask — we’re here to support you on your UK healthcare career journey!
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