Can EU Nannies Work in the UK After Brexit?
If you’re an EU nanny thinking about working in the UK, you’re definitely not alone. This is one of the most common questions I get asked by nannies looking at UK roles, especially in London.
The short answer is yes, some EU nannies can still work in the UK, but the process is very different since Brexit.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the current situation.
Can EU Citizens Still Work as Nannies in the UK?
Yes, but you now usually need the legal right to work in the UK before applying for nanny positions.
Before Brexit, EU nationals could freely move to the UK for work. That is no longer the case.
Most UK nanny agencies and private families will now ask about visa status or right to work very early in the process.
Who Can Still Work as a Nanny in the UK?
EU Nannies With Settled or Pre-Settled Status
Many EU nannies who were already living in the UK before Brexit successfully applied through the EU Settlement Scheme.
If you have:
Settled status
Pre-settled status
You can usually continue living and working in the UK without needing sponsorship from a family or agency.
Can Families Sponsor a Nanny Visa?
In most cases, no.
This is where many people get confused.
Unlike some corporate jobs, nanny positions are generally not eligible for standard UK Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Most private families are also not registered sponsors.
This means many UK families specifically look for candidates who already have the right to work in the UK.
What About Au Pair Positions?
The UK no longer has a dedicated au pair visa route.
Some families still advertise “au pair” style roles, but legally, the person still needs valid immigration permission to live and work in the UK.
It’s important for both families and candidates to understand this before making plans.
Are There Any Other Visa Options?
Sometimes, yes.
Some younger applicants may qualify for a Youth Mobility visa depending on their nationality and eligibility.
Others may already be in the UK on:
Student visas
Partner visas
Family visas
Graduate visas
Each visa has different rules around working hours and employment, so it’s important to check official guidance carefully.
What UK Agencies Are Looking For Now
Since Brexit, many nanny agencies prioritise candidates who:
Already live in the UK
Already have the right to work
Can start relatively quickly
Do not require sponsorship
That doesn’t mean international candidates cannot find work, especially highly experienced nannies, bilingual nannies, rota nannies, or candidates with HNW experience. But the process is usually more competitive and more complex than it was previously.
There are still fantastic opportunities in the UK nanny industry for EU candidates, but immigration rules are now a major part of the process.
If you’re applying for UK nanny jobs from overseas, it’s important to:
Check your visa eligibility first
Be honest with agencies about your work status
Understand that many families cannot sponsor visas
Focus on agencies and roles that are open to international candidates where possible
The UK nanny market is still very active, especially in London, but families and agencies are now much more cautious about right-to-work requirements than they were before Brexit.
If you’re applying for UK nanny roles and want support creating a professional nanny CV tailored to the UK market, I offer specialist CV writing services for nannies, au pairs and childcare professionals here. I also offer 1:1 coaching sessions covering interviews, agency applications, confidence building and navigating the UK nanny industry as an international candidate.