The Overseas Domestic Worker visa in the UK is designed for individuals who are employed as domestic workers in private households. This visa route allows them to accompany their employer who is visiting or relocating to the UK. Eligible applicants include cleaners, chauffeurs, cooks, nannies, and those providing personal care for the employer and their family. The main purpose of this visa is to protect the rights of domestic workers while allowing them to continue their employment with their overseas employer in the UK.
Other Routes
The Overseas Domestic Worker visa in the UK is designed for individuals who are employed as domestic workers in private households. This visa route allows them to accompany their employer who is visiting or relocating to the UK. Eligible applicants include cleaners, chauffeurs, cooks, nannies, and those providing personal care for the employer and their family. The main purpose of this visa is to protect the rights of domestic workers while allowing them to continue their employment with their overseas employer in the UK.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for the Overseas Domestic Worker visa, including detailed requirements, step-by-step application process, required documents, costs, timeline, and expert tips for a successful application.
Varies by application type
Immigration Health Charge
Paid by employer
The Overseas Domestic Worker visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. This duration is fixed and cannot be extended. It is essential to plan your stay and departure accordingly to comply with UK immigration rules.
FeaturedThe Overseas Domestic Worker visa is designed for individuals employed as domestic workers in private households who wish to accompany their employer to the UK for short stays, typically up to six months. This visa allows domestic workers such as personal assistants, nannies, housekeepers, and cooks to retain their job security while experiencing the UK alongside their employers.
FeaturedNo, you do not need a job offer from a UK employer. Instead, you must have been employed by your current employer outside the UK for at least 12 months prior to your application. This visa is meant for those accompanying their employer to the UK.
FeaturedApplicants must have been employed by the same employer they intend to accompany to the UK for at least 12 months prior to the application. This employment should be continuous and can be verified through employment contracts and payment records.
FeaturedYou must provide evidence of at least 12 months of employment with the same employer. This can include payslips, employment contracts, or a letter from your employer confirming your role and duration of employment in their household.
FeaturedThere is no fixed minimum salary requirement for this visa. However, the applicant must demonstrate they will receive a fair wage for the work they perform in the UK. This can be shown through previous payslips and a letter from the employer confirming the rate of pay.
FeaturedTightening of eligibility criteria to ensure that the route is not being misused, particularly in light of increased scrutiny on immigration control.
8/16/2025
Introduction of a potential pathway to settlement for long-term domestic workers who meet specific criteria.
8/16/2025