Vet2Vet News

Want to Work in the UK?

The United Kingdom has a lot to offer and has many beautiful places for you to visit.  Whether you are a veterinary surgeon or a veterinary nurse, no matter where you would like to work, there are a few things you will need in order to work in the veterinary industry in the UK:

1. Have a valid visa/work permit (if you do not hold a UK passport)
2. Register with the RCVS
3. Register with HM Revenue & Customs & obtain a National Insurance Number
4. Open a Bank Account & Other Useful Tips

Please visit our pages for lots of useful information.

Visa & Work Permits

If you do not hold a UK passport, you will need a visa or work permit.  We have listed a number of links that will help you along the way. There are several visa and work permit options available, but for the veterinary industry the most important ones are:

1 Tier 1 Migrant (General) – this replaced the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme

2 Tier 2 Skilled Worker – you will need a sponsor in the UK

Vet Surgeons are currently in the UK’s Shortage Occupation List – Click Here

3 Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme – you will need a sponsor, maintenance funds and be 18-30 years old

Please note that only certain countries have joined the YMS.

4 Ancestral Visa

The length of time you can stay in the UK will depend on the Tier you are eligible for.

For more information:

UK Visas – Click Here

UK Home Office – Click Here

You may want calculate your points for the UK’s Points-Based System (PBS) and see if you are eligible to work in the UK before applying for a visa.

Points-Based Calculator – Click Here

If you prefer someone to help you through the process, you may choose to use a visa and work permit agency who may charge you a fee.

Other useful links:

Australian British High Commission – Click Here

South African British High Commission – Click Here

New Zealand British High Commission – Click Here