Working as an occupational therapist

Working in the UK as an OT from another country

Opportunities across the UK

There are lots of opportunities for occupational therapists in the UK, and a shortage of qualified OTs to fill the roles.

Many occupational therapists work for the National Health Service (NHS), while others are employed by private hospitals or independent occupational therapy practices, or are set up privately. Opportunities also exist within the public sector – such as local councils, the police or schools.

Whatever your specialism or area of practice, there's a wide range of opportunities across the UK with excellent career development potential.

Occupational therapists in the UK also have very good earning potential, up to £79,000 a year as a consultant therapist, or more as an independent practitioner or independent researcher.

If you have already qualified or are practising occupational therapy, there are three steps to working in the UK:

Get registered with HCPC Step 1

To practise in the UK you must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the regulatory body for the Allied Health Professions.

To register, you need to fulfil the HCPC's criteria which includes professional indemnity insurance and CPD requirements. You’ll get this as part of your RCOT membership.

Qualifications and English proficiency are taken into account and there is a processing fee.

Secure a job offer Step 2

Apply for a work visa Step 3

Once you’ve secured your job, you’ll need to apply for a Skilled Worker Tier 2 general work visa.

Since occupational therapy is a shortage occupation, all you will need is a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer. You won’t need to show proof of earnings and you’ll be charged less for your application.

Additionally, if you want to apply for permanent UK residency after your Tier 2 visa has expired, you would be exempt from the £35,000 salary requirement.

You’ll find information about visas and immigration on the UK Government website.

Living in the UK

The UK Government website is a useful source of information. You can find out more about citizenship and living in the UK as well as housing in the UK.

When you arrive in the UK, you can become a full professional member.