WORKING OVERSEAS
Explore vacancies in the UK
Featured vacancies
The United Kingdom, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, is home to a population of more than 67 million people.
To practice as a veterinarian or veterinary nurse within the UK, professionals must adhere to specific requirements established by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
The RCVS serves as the regulatory body for veterinary professionals across all four countries, ensuring consistent standards and practices.
To work legally in the UK as a veterinarian or veterinary nurse, registration with the RCVS is mandatory. This process ensures that all practitioners possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and knowledge to provide high-quality veterinary care to the UK’s diverse animal population.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is the professional body that every veterinary surgeon and nurse in the UK must be registered with in order to practice.
The RCVS sets the standards for education, clinical practice, and ethics, ensuring that your qualifications and skills are respected both within the UK and internationally.
Beyond regulation, the College supports your career through continuing professional development (CPD) frameworks, accreditation of further training, and opportunities to specialise or pursue leadership roles. Being part of the RCVS gives you access to resources, networks, and guidance that help you grow professionally, while also demonstrating to employers and clients that you are committed to the highest standards of animal care and welfare.
Top tip
Contact GVC to learn more about the registration process with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). The RCVS serves as the regulatory body for veterinary professionals across all four countries, ensuring consistent standards and practices
For non-UK nationals seeking to work as a veterinarian or veterinary nurse in the United Kingdom, obtaining the appropriate visa is a crucial step. The UK government has specific immigration rules and requirements in place to ensure that qualified professionals from around the world can contribute to the country’s veterinary sector.
Typically, non-UK veterinary professionals will need to apply for a Skilled Worker visa, which is granted to individuals with a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK employer. The employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship to confirm the job offer and demonstrate that the applicant possesses the necessary skills and qualifications for the position.
Applicants for the Skilled Worker visa must also meet other criteria, such as proving their knowledge of English and having enough personal savings to support themselves during their stay in the UK. The visa application process typically involves submitting relevant documents, paying the associated fees, and attending a biometric appointment.
Top tip
It is important to note that visa requirements and immigration policies are subject to change, so it is advisable to consult the official UK government website or seek advice from a qualified immigration advisor to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Over recent years, veterinary salaries across the UK have experienced an upward trend, and this pattern is expected to persist.
Based on our 2023 salary review, the following data provides an overview of the remuneration landscape within the veterinary field:
- Average Veterinarian Salary: £45,000 annually
- Entry-Level Veterinarian Salary: £38,000 annually
- Experienced Veterinarians: Earning up to £80,000 annually
- Average Veterinary Nurse Salary: £28,000 annually
- Experienced Veterinary Nurse Salary: Ranging between £28,000 and £36,000 annually
- Average Locum Veterinarian Salary: £450 to £550 per day
- Average Locum Veterinary Nurse Salary: £18 to £27 per hour
Top tip
Please note that these figures are subject to change and may vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and specific roles within the veterinary profession.
In the United Kingdom, personal taxes related to earnings depend on the individual’s income level and personal circumstances. Income tax rates are progressive, with different tax bands corresponding to different income brackets. Here’s a summary of the tax bands and rates for the tax year 2021/2022, which can be included in the section.
Based on our 2023 salary review, the following data provides an overview of the remuneration landscape within the veterinary field:
- Personal Allowance: Up to £12,570 – 0% Income Tax
- Basic Rate: £12,571 to £50,270 – 20% Income Tax
- Higher Rate: £50,271 to £150,000 – 40% Income Tax
- Additional Rate: Over £150,000 – 45% Income Tax
Please note that these rates and thresholds are subject to change each tax year. Also, the income tax rates and bands may differ for Scotland, as the Scottish Parliament sets its own income tax rates and bands.
Regarding National Insurance Contributions (NICs), the rates for the tax year 2021/2022 for employees (Class 1) are as follows:
- Earnings up to £9,568 per year: 0% NICs
- Earnings between £9,569 and £50,270 per year: 12% NICs
- Earnings above £50,270 per year: 2% NICs
Top tip
Again, these rates and thresholds may change each tax year. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is essential to consult the official UK government website or seek advice from a qualified tax advisor.
