EuroKompis
Professions in demand / Social workers

Social workers: where you are wanted

The UK and Ireland both have dedicated routes, and you can work in English.

Demand in the eight countries

UKUnited Kingdom
Shortage list

Eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa. Source

IEIreland
Shortage list

Registered social workers are on the Critical Skills Occupations List. Source

NLNetherlands
High demand

Social work associate professionals are listed in the EURES 2025 report. Source

DEGermany
High demand

Social work associate professionals are listed in the EURES 2025 report. Source

SESweden
Possible

Not listed as a shortage in the EURES 2025 report. Source

FRFrance
Possible

Not listed as a shortage in the EURES 2025 report. Source

ESSpain
Possible

Not listed as a shortage in the EURES 2025 report. Source

PTPortugal
Possible

Not listed as a shortage in the EURES 2025 report. Source

Shortage list On an official government shortage list or a dedicated visa route, which usually makes the visa easier or cheaper.High demand Reported as a shortage occupation in the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report.Possible No shortage reported. Still possible with a job offer that meets the normal visa rules.Limited Few or no work visa options for this profession at the moment.

Language

Outside the UK and Ireland, social work is done in the local language.

Who recognises your qualification

Verify your South African qualification with SAQA first. Other countries use their national recognition body, listed on each country guide.

See your full picture

Your passport, family and salary decide which routes actually open up.

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Other professions

NursesDoctorsPharmacistsPhysiotherapistsTeachersChartered accountantsCivil engineersMechanical and electrical engineersSoftware developers and ITElectriciansPlumbers and weldersChefs

Checked on 16 October 2026 against official shortage lists and the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report. General information, not immigration advice.