UK Social Care Visa RQF 6 and UK Skilled Worker Visa RQF Level
Introduction to UK social care visa
Set to migrate to the UK for employment, particularly in social care? You are not alone. Numerous skilled workers are setting their eyes on the UK as a prime destination for career development. But the catch is – not every qualification is equivalent in the eyes of UK immigration.
That’s where the RQF levels are introduced. In this guide, we will dissect all you need to know about the UK Social Care Visa RQF 6 and UK Skilled Worker Visa RQF Level requirements. Have a cup of tea – let’s dive in.
Learning about the RQF (Regulated Qualifications Framework)
What is the RQF?
The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is the UK government’s way of measuring education level. It goes from entry-level to level 8. The higher the number, the better the qualification.
Why is the RQF important for UK visas?
Because the UK uses RQF levels to determine if your qualifications are up to the job you’re applying for. If the job requires an RQF 6 and you only have RQF 3, you may not be eligible.
RQF breakdown
- RQF 3 – A-level or equivalent (commonly applied for care worker positions)
- RQF 6 – Bachelor’s degree level (applicable for managerial or specialist positions)
- RQF 7 – Master’s level
- RQF 8 – Doctorate level
UK Skilled Worker Visa Overview
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
This is the primary work visa pathway for non-UK citizens. It is a replacement for the Tier 2 (General) visa and enables workers to work and reside in the UK with sponsorship from a UK employer.
Key qualification criteria
- Job offer from licensed sponsor
- Pass English language tests
- Pass salary and skills threshold
- Role be on the eligible occupations list
Minimum RQF level required
In general, the work has to be at RQF Level 3 or higher, but most skilled work demands RQF 6.
Jobs that fit under Skilled Worker Visa
- Nurses
- Social workers
- Care managers
- IT experts
- Engineers
Pay thresholds and occupations
- General threshold: £38,700 (effective 2024)
- Shortage occupations (including care): lower threshold may be applicable, about £23,200 or £29,000
Social Care Jobs and the RQF 6 Level
What is an RQF 6 qualification?
It is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s. If you possess one in the same field, such as social work, it may open up greater positions such as care manager or team leader.
Typical RQF 6 roles in social care
- Registered Social Worker
- Care Home Manager
- Social Work Consultant
Educational and work experience requirements
- Social work, health, or related degree
- Minimum of 1 year of experience desired
- Registration with UK social care organizations (e.g., Social Work England)
Comparing RQF 6 and Other RQF Levels
RQF 3 vs RQF 6 – what’s different?
- RQF 3 = vocational, e.g. NVQ Level 3
- RQF 6 = academic, bachelor’s degree
- Pay scale, responsibilities, and visa status vary
How the level influences visa eligibility
Higher RQF = greater access to senior positions and possibly higher pay. This indicates simpler Skilled Worker Visa compliance.
Upgrading your qualification
Don’t meet RQF 6? Look at online or UK courses, particularly those approved by UK ENIC or Ofqual.
Applying for the UK Social Care Visa
Is there a Social Care Visa?
Not technically, but care workers can apply under the Skilled Worker Visa. This route covers care occupations on the shortage occupation list.
Social care occupations under the Skilled Worker route
- Care Workers (RQF 3)
- Senior Care Workers
- Social Workers (RQF 6+)
Sponsorship conditions for social care positions
You require a job offer from a sponsor employer with a sponsorship license. Numerous care homes and agencies are now sponsor-approved.
Sponsorship and Employer Obligations
Acquiring a licensed sponsor
Look through the UK government list of approved sponsors. Approach employers currently recruiting international staff.
Employer obligations
- Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Pay decent wages
- Ensure you’re in the sponsored position
How to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Get a job offer
- Pass interview
- Employer allocates the CoS using the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)
How to satisfy RQF 6 Requirements
Recognising foreign qualifications
Compare your degree with UK standards using ECCTIS (formerly UK NARIC).
Using ECCTIS (UK ENIC) to compare qualifications
Upload your transcript, diploma, and course information. They will verify the UK RQF equivalency.
Courses and certificates to look into
- UK bachelor’s conversion courses
- Online RQF 6 diplomas
- Health & social care degrees
Immigration Salary List and Shortage Occupations
Impact of the shortage occupation list
Employment on this list receive relaxed conditions, such as lower salary levels and visa charges.
Social care’s place in the immigration list
Care jobs are listed in many cases – a significant benefit for candidates.
Lower salary levels for shortage occupations
As low as £23,200 for care jobs, in contrast to £38,700 for others.
Costs and Processing Times
Fees for making an application
Approximately £610 to £1,400 depending on visa duration
Additional for dependents
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
£1,035 annually per individual
How long does it take?
- Usually 3 to 8 weeks
- Priority services available
Rights and Benefits of Visa Holders
Working conditions
You can work full-time, change jobs with conditions, and receive comparable rights to UK citizens.
Bringing dependents
Wives and children can accompany you and enjoy access to work/school.
Path to permanent residency
After 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Challenges and Common Mistakes
Common application mistakes
- Wrong job code
- Invalid CoS
- Lack of English proofing
Misconception about RQF levels
RQF 3 = degree – it does not. Carefully check.
Sponsorship issues
Unlicensed sponsors or sponsorship revocation can hijack your visa.
Applicant Success Tips
Document preparation correctly
Double-check absolutely everything – passport, CoS, job offer, qualifications, English test.
Making the best of your job offer
Negotiate salary and position to meet or surpass visa standards.
Making the most of your qualifications
Emphasize pertinent education and employment to achieve RQF 6 status.
Future of Social Care within UK Immigration System
Policy updates to monitor
Rules change frequently – stay ahead through the UK Home Office website.
Increase from demand for care workers
Demands are rising sharply as the population gets older.
Long-term immigration strategy
Care workers play a critical role in the UK economy – a stable career with long-term opportunities.
Conclusion
The UK Skilled Worker Visa provides access to incredible career prospects, particularly in social care. Whether you’re targeting an RQF 3 care worker or an RQF 6 management position, knowledge of the framework is your ticket to success.
Get your qualifications assessed, apply via the correct channel, and ensure your job offer meets all the criteria. With the UK’s continuous demand for care professionals, now is a good time to make the jump.
FAQ's
RQF 3 is the same as A-levels; RQF 6 is the same as a bachelor’s degree. The higher the RQF level, the more extensive your employment opportunities and visa eligibility.
Yes, particularly those in shortage occupations such as senior care workers or those sponsored by licensed sponsors.
Use ECCTIS (UK ENIC) to check and compare your qualification against the UK framework.
No. Social care occupations are part of the Skilled Worker Visa route.
Yes, dependents are allowed to accompany you and even work or study in the UK.
