Menu Log in Search Search You are here HomeAbout usJoin usWorking in the United Kingdom (UK) Working in the United Kingdom (UK) Occupational therapy practice We recommend that all occupational therapists wanting to work in the United Kingdom (UK) make themselves fully aware of the national policies and legislation in each of the four UK Countries - Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and England. The best way to do this is initially to become an overseas member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT). On arrival in the UK you can become an RCOT professional member and take advantage of local networking and study events and other benefits which will help you settle into your new professional community. Further information Getting registered To practise in the UK you must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the regulatory body. 'Occupational therapist' is a legally protected title which may only be used by registered occupational therapists. In order to get registered, applicants must fulfil the HCPC criteria which includes professional indemnity insurance and CPD requirements. provides this insurance as part of the RCOT membership benefits. Information on immigration and working in the UK Please contact: Employment opportunities for occupational therapists Employment opportunities for occupational therapists in the UK are available across the UK, particularly in the National Health Service and Local Authorities. However, there is a geographical variation for vacancies, e.g. a large number of vacancies in the London area. The recent introduction of the occupational therapy profession onto the Shortage Occupation List will make it easier for international occupational therapists to come to the UK. Finding a job Vacancy listings are available to and in OTnews. Work is available in health, social care and community settings as well as in the independent sector, education, housing etc. Agencies may also be helpful for short term work. International students studying in the UK Tier 4 Student Visa The text of this webpage is available as a download: Working in the UK information sheet (DOCX, 207.08KB) Share Occupational therapy jobs Website terms and conditions Privacy Policy RCOT and GDPR Compliments and complaints Get in touch Royal College of Occupational Therapists 106-114 Borough High Street London SE1 1LB T: 020 3141 4600 Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (or 'RCOT') is a registered charity in England and Wales (275119) and in Scotland (SCO39573) and a company registered in England (No. 1347374). VAT Reg. No. 242 7829 47. © Copyright 2019 Royal College of Occupational Therapists. All rights reserved. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to use this site you consent to the use of cookies on your device as described in our privacy policy. You can change your cookies settings at any time through your browser settings. OK, I agree Share to Twitter Share to Facebook Share to Pinterest