BVA shares guide to overseas vet recruitment rules
Changes to the Skilled Worker Visa Pathway came into effect on 22 July 2025.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has published a new resource designed to support employers with recruiting veterinary professionals to work in the UK from overseas.
The guide will answer frequently asked questions about the Skilled Worker Visa pathway, detailing the latest Home Office rules. It is suitable for veterinary businesses that are looking to recruit from overseas, as well as qualified veterinary professionals hoping to move to the UK.
It aims to deliver a clear and practical overview of the current visa process and sponsorship requirements. The guide explores details such as salary thresholds, visa costs, and the related timelines.
It also addresses questions about the Certificate of Sponsorship, who qualifies for the salary threshold discount, and what happens to vets who lose or change their jobs.
The guide follows details about the changes published by the UK government on Friday, 20 March 2026. Among the changes detailed was a shortening of the list of jobs for which employers could sponsor a worker from overseas.
The initial reduction to the list of eligible jobs came into effect on 22 July 2025, while B2 English has been required of applicants since 8 January 2026.
Elizabeth Mullineaux, BVA senior vice president, said: “The veterinary profession in the UK heavily relies on overseas vets, who play a crucial role in our workforce.
“However, we’ve been contacted by many members with questions and concerns around navigating the recent changes to the skilled worker visa rules.
“In response, with this resource we’re bringing clarity, by answering the most pressing questions and simply outlining the visa process as well as sponsorship requirements.”
The resource can be accessed here.
Image © Jen Bernal/Shutterstock.com
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
