Typical entry route is for young adults from eligible countries and territories, usually in an 18-30 or 18-35 age band depending on origin.

Applicants generally need to evidence savings before application and pay visa/healthcare charges.

Processing timelines can be short in many cases, but peak periods still create uncertainty. Build a contingency week into your start plan.

Families must still complete compliant right-to-work checks and should not hire someone who only holds visitor status.

1. Define your childcare operating model: school runs, evenings, and holiday cover blocks by weekday.

2. Screen for timing fit before personality fit: earliest legal start date, location move date, and minimum stay expectation.

3. Confirm pay structure aligned with minimum wage obligations and document expected hours clearly.

4. Use trial-week planning questions in interview: emergency backup, transport confidence, and household routines.

5. Finalize onboarding materials before arrival: weekly rota template, key school contacts, and home safety checklist.

Which date can you legally start paid childcare work in the UK?

What age groups have you cared for most recently, and for how many weekly hours?

Which parts of the day are your strongest: mornings, homework routine, bedtime, or weekend coverage?

Are you comfortable with school pickups, meal prep for children, and light childcare-related household tasks?