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Working in the UK as a Sonographer

The UK has a long history of recruiting skilled healthcare professionals from overseas, and due to an ever-growing and ageing population this trend is set to continue.

Qualified and experienced sonographers are currently in high demand across most areas of the UK. If you are a sonographer considering a move from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe, or elsewhere, you will be pleased to hear that we have hundreds of temporary and permanent healthcare jobs in the UK available on our platform right now.

Sonography is a very flexible career choice making it possible to find employment that suits your lifestyle. You may find yourself working as a private practitioner, or within a public health service trust. Many sonographers work in high pressure, fast-paced environments within a hospital setting. Sonographers are required for both hospitalised patients and outpatients, and sometimes they are needed in the emergency department. Some sonographers prefer to work in permanent roles, whilst others prefer the variety of locum work.

A staffed sonographer will have the advantage of getting to know their team and their workplace well and will be familiar with the processes and policies within their department. Locums will often need to fit into the working culture more quickly, and will need to establish rapport with their team members. On the other hand, locum work is usually more flexible, and may offer a higher hourly rate and a broader range of experiences than permanent sonographer jobs. A locum sonographer will usually perform many of the same duties as a staff member. They may be required to work as a general sonographer, scanning a wide variety of organs or areas of the body, or they may be needed for a highly specialised role. Sub-specialties for sonographers can include obstetrics/antenatal, paediatrics, oncology, breast, cardiac, vascular, musculoskeletal, and renal.

Sonographer Salaries: - Private Hospitals

The average salary for sonographers in the UK ranges from £40,056 to £53,218 (as of January 2022). Salaries vary according to a number of factors, including a candidate's level of experience and qualifications, whether unsocial hours are worked, whether the employer operates within the private or public healthcare sector, the urgency of the placement, whether it is a locum or permanent position, and the job location. For example, sonographers in private healthcare roles, working in cities such as London or Manchester, may receive much higher-than-average pay, while those working in more rural areas may receive a lower rate for comparable roles.

Sonographer Salaries - UK NHS pay range

For sonographers working in NHS jobs in the UK, remuneration varies according to the level of experience and seniority. According to the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale, salaries can range from £30,000 to £51,000, from the bottom to the top end of the scale. A newly qualified sonographer would be considered Band 5 and might expect to earn around £35,000 per annum. However, a more experienced, senior sonographer with management or teaching responsibilities would usually be classified as Band 7 and may expect to earn in excess of £45,000 per annum.

Locum work pay rates

Sonographers are currently in great demand, and locum sonographers can expect to earn a higher hourly rate than a permanent employee. A locum sonographer might expect to earn £40-55 per hour, even with just a couple of years' experience. A willingness to work unsocial hours can enhance a locum's salary. Particularly in NHS Trusts, locum sonographers working in certain specialties are often required for regular weekend, nights, and evening work. In private settings, locum sonographers may also be required for regular weekend work. When working with us, you will not only benefit from hearing about all the UK and worldwide opportunities as they become available, but you will also benefit from the excellent rates we pay our candidates.

Are you a qualified sonographer seeking a new job opportunity in the UK? Whether you are seeking career progression or a lifestyle change, we can support you in finding healthcare jobs that match your experience and qualifications. From temporary placements to long-term career moves, we can pair you with your ideal role.

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If you live overseas and wish to work in the UK, you will need to follow the new immigration processes put in place following the UK's exit from the European Union. Whether you are moving to the UK permanently or just seeking a temporary working holiday, you will need to apply for a work permit in advance. Some visas require an offer of employment before you can live and work in the UK. The exception is the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, which is covered in more detail below. Requirements for sonographers working in the UK. To be eligible for employment as a sonographer in the UK, you will need to meet the following requirements.

Qualifications

Whilst there is no legal requirement to hold a recognised ultrasound qualification, the great majority of sonographers currently working in the UK have a Diagnostic Radiography degree, and/or a postgraduate certificate/diploma in medical or clinical ultrasound. If you wish to apply for employment from overseas, you will need to ensure that your native qualifications and experience are equivalent and appropriate for the UK.

The Health and Care Professions Council

Once living and working in the UK, sonographers may be required to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Regardless of whether HCPC registration is required by a potential employer, you may choose to register with the Voluntary Register of Sonographers, which is administered by The Register of Clinical Technologists.

Professional Indemnity Insurance

To work as a sonographer in the UK, you will need appropriate professional indemnity insurance. This can be arranged once you have arrived in the country.

Visas

You can choose to apply for either a temporary or permanent visa to work in the UK. Whichever route you take will depend on your long-term plans and goals. Some healthcare professionals opt to [come to the UK for a working holiday, perhaps for a year or two, while others are looking to settle permanently.

Working in the UK on a permanent visa

If you want to settle permanently in the UK, you should apply for a Skilled Worker visa or a Health and Care Worker visa. In each case, an application fee is payable, and you will need to have a job offer lined up before your visa is granted. Your salary must be at least the national pay scale rate for the sonographer jobs you will be doing to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa. The application fee for jobs on the shortage occupations list costs £464 for up to three years, and £928 for more than three years. You will also need to pay a healthcare surcharge of £624 per year, and you will need to have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself when you first arrive in the UK. Many sonographers wishing to relocate to the UK decide to visit for a holiday initially. This gives the opportunity to apply for suitable jobs and attend interviews, in preparation for making a permanent working visa application. A permanent visa usually allows dependants and spouses to accompany you to live in the UK.

Working in the UK on a temporary visa

Temporary visas are designed for people wishing to work in the UK on a non-permanent basis. There are several types of temporary visas. The following are the most relevant for sonographers looking to work in the UK temporarily.

The Youth Mobility Scheme visa

This visa is the most common solution for young professionals wishing to live and work temporarily in the UK. A replacement for the working holiday visa, it offers the opportunity to live and work in the UK for up to two years. It is worth noting that fewer British commonwealth countries are now eligible for the YMS visa than was previously the case. Citizens from the following countries may apply: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Monaco, San Marino, and Iceland. To be eligible for the YMS visa, you must be aged between 18 and 30, and you will need savings of at least £2,530. Dependents and spouses are not permitted to accompany the visa holder to live and/or work in the UK with this visa.

The Temporary Work - Government Authorised Exchange visa

This one- or two-year visa is designed for people wishing to engage in temporary work experience, training, research or fellowship programmes. To satisfy the requirements, you will need to obtain a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor before you apply for your visa. Your work experience or training must be relevant to the work of your sponsor organisation. Your sponsor can be an approved exchange scheme organisation, a higher education institution, or a government agency. In addition to the work described in your certificate of sponsorship, you are allowed to work a second job for up to 20 hours per week. You are also permitted to apply for part-time job roles listed on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list (which includes healthcare professionals such as sonographers) for up to 20 hours per week. You can apply for this visa up to three months before the day you are due to start work or training in the UK. Dependants and spouses of temporary visa holders are usually allowed to live in the UK temporarily, provided they are eligible.

Temporary visa fees

An application fee of £244 per person (reduced by £55 for EU nationals) is payable for temporary visas, and an additional £624 healthcare surcharge per person is payable for each year you are resident in the UK.

How long does a temporary visa application decision take?

Once you have submitted an application, proved your identity, and provided any other documents required, you should get a decision on your temporary visa within three weeks. You are then permitted to enter the UK up to 14 days before the start date of your job.

Useful Links

UK ENIC - The UK National Information Centre for international qualifications and skills can compare overseas qualifications with those in the UK
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa - Guidance and insight into the process and eligibility requirements for the YMS visa to work in the UK temporarily.
Health and Care Worker Visa - Information on applying to work in the UK as a Health and Care Worker in the NHS.
Working Holiday Checklist - All you need to know about embarking on a UK working holiday
The British Medical Ultrasound Society - Information about formal sonography training and careers in the UK.
UK National Careers Service - Information about salary ranges for sonographer jobs, and what to expect from a career as a sonographer in the UK.

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My experience with Ronak has been exceptional. He is very diligent, prompt in response and reliable in sorting out any issues I've had. When I was awaiting my certificate, he followed me on my progress monthly and encouraged me. I don't think anyone could have worked better with me and made me feel as safe as he did. Thank you, Permanent & Locum Hire.

Vera, International Sonographer– Provided A Permanent Job With Tier 2 Visa With A Leading Pregnancy Scans Clinic.

I have had such a great experience with this company. Karen has been friendly, professional, and extremely helpful throughout the whole process. She has always been available for advice and gave me confidence before my interview, she also kept me updated at all times. Would highly recommend Permanent & Locum Hire.

Mrs. Tobin – RGN– Placed with UK’s best Neuro-rehab private hospital, Buckinghamshire.

Dear Karen, I sincerely appreciate all the work that has gone into the induction training at the hospital. I am glad I was referred to this company by Permanent & Locums Hire, and I have enjoyed all aspects of the training which has greatly helped me to understand more about the benefits of working for such a highly reputable organisation. I greatly appreciate all the time and effort you and Chris expended on my behalf to get this role. I am excited about growing and developing my skills here with such a professional team. Thank you very much once again for your selfless assistance.

Hycent, HCA– Secured a permanent job in Buckinghamshire.

I am writing with regard to my dealing with Chris Taylor. He approached me via LinkedIn and informed me that he had a job opportunity that I might be interested in. He was very direct and was open to answering all my questions. It was easy to understand everything that was said by him and escalated any questions he could not answer. I eventually got the interview and I had full support from Chris and all my questions were answered promptly. I feel he went above and beyond what I could expect for a hire company and it made the process of interview less stressful. I appreciate everything that was done by Chris and his team and I would definitely deal with him again if I’m looking for other work. I would recommend my colleagues to Chris and Permanent & Locum Hire for sure, and I like the fact that there were personal touches like a gift to congratulate me on getting the job and feedback about how my new post was going, and also continued communication to find out how my career is progressing. A job well done in all aspects.

Mrs. Ford– London, Secure a Band 6 Team Leader role with a charitable children’s hospice in London.

Ronak is an amazing recruitment consultant who is not only professional but very caring. He responds promptly to requests and he goes the extra mile for would be recruits. He is an asset to the Permanent & Locum Hire.

Cynthia –RMN ongoing locums with an NHS Hospital- Oxford.

I would highly recommend working with Chris to anyone who is seeking job opportunities. From the very start I felt very comfortable and confident about my future and past experiences. His knowledge and advice was exceptional. He really knew his field of work and supported me through all interview processes. Nothing was ever to much trouble; no question was ever a stupid question. Easy to contact. If there was an issue, a quick phone call and it was resolved straight away.

Laura, Occupational Therapist- Buckinghamshire.

I am writing this email to you to express my best appreciation and positive experience of Chris my recruitment consultant. Throughout my career I have spoken to plenty of agents, however, Chris stands out from others, by far, allow me to say. Not only did he displayed a high level of professionalism and kindness, but I am completely convinced that he is highly knowledgeable, as he knows how to "mix and match" my clinical qualifications to many types of jobs. He is discreet, proactive, quick, effective, and pleasant and I believe that he has all the skills that make someone the best employee. Due to this positive experience, I have recommended Permanent & Locum Hire to all of my colleagues. Please, accept my congratulations for having an employee, as he adds value to your company. Respectfully yours.

Maria – RGN- Brighton.

Permanent & Locum Hire is helping me achieve my dream of working and living in the United Kingdom as a registered Health and Care Professional. The unique thing with Permanent & Locum Hire's support is the personalised approach. I didn't feel I was alone throughout the hiring process. I was listened to, and the hiring consultant could anticipate possible scenarios and proactively guide me through appropriate options for each step of my hiring process. I thought they had mastery and my best interest combined. I am happy to recommend Permanent & Locum Hire if you are considering work in the UK. You will feel as if a friend helps you.

Eyo, International Sonographer- A Permanent Job With Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship In Private Sector Clinic.

I quite enjoyed the enthusiasm in which I was approached how I was able to converse with my advisor about the post in a professionally congenial way. Very excellent performance in the way obstacles were handled and the timely response and general feedback. I will recommend Permanent & Locum Hire to anyone.

Yerland, RGN- Secured a permanent job with a private hospital in London.

Can I take this opportunity to say how impressed I have been with Ronak and the team at Permanent Hire, throughout the process with my new employer. His communication has been excellent as have his values etc. Please pass on my thanks to him.

Steve- Placed as a Care Home Manager with a group of private care homes in Birmingham.

Permanent & Locum Hire is fantastic to work with. As a recruiting firm, it maintained a highly professional demeanour and was always very friendly and found me the perfect job instantly! Karen and Ronak were quick to understand the kind of role I was looking for, recognising my strengths, and putting me forward for exactly the right job. Ronak was always there to help throughout the process, giving good advice and assistance whenever need. l am sincerely grateful. I highly recommend Permanent & Locum Hire. Thank you!

Tina, International Sonographer- A Permanent Job With Tier 2 Visa With A Leading Pregnancy Scans Clinic.

A big thank you to Neil, for your kindness and professional approach while helping to find me a suitable position. You kept me informed every step of the process and truly listened. I wish you and Permanent Hire continued success.

Rasheeda- Secured Substantive Endoscopy Work with a Clinical Services Provider

Chris has been extra professional throughout my recruitment process. He have always gone above and beyond to ensure I was kept up to date with the process. All of my questions were answered promptly and fully. He made sure I was comfortable and at ease with the recruitment process. Even making sure I was confident before my interview. Chris made me feel that he cared about my career and wanted me to succeed. He did. I would have no hesitation in recommending you to any other companies and in fact have done that with my previous employer, who engaged with them. Chris, I wish you well for the future and hope your performance review goes well (although I have no doubt it will). Thanks,

Sharon- Secured a superb role as Registered Manager with a huge pay increase with a Private Sector Client

It has been an absolute pleasure working with Ronak Jain, he has was absolutely amazing throughout the whole recruitment process. Ronak was so professional and dedicated, I cannot thank him enough for his support, and for believing in me and helping me start a new phase of my professional career, I gained very valuable information and had such positive experience.

HCA- Placed with the UK@s leading private rehabilitation hospital

I met the agency when I was looking for a new job. Gaurang was my dedicated recruiter and he helped me a lot. For them I can confidently confirm that they provide an opportunity for a new beginning in a person's life which is really very good and according to experience. They are well acquainted with the circumstances, react quickly and adequately. They are always accurate and correct. The difference is that they meet fully with the desire and ability of the job seeker and accordingly offer the best. They always guide and assist in the process of preparing documents. I am extremely pleased with my plowing to work through them. I would always definitely recommend them to other seekers of new opportunities. And at the end once again I want to tell you Thank you for everything and the support you provided to me at all times.

HCA- Placed with a top London private hospital

Definitely, no amount of words or volume of write ups will convey in entirety my Amazing experience with Mr Ronak, my recruitment manager. Mr Ronak is no doubt the best recruiter and personality I have ever encountered. He is not just a father but also a friend during my recruitment journey. He is very friendly, personable, accessible, capable and always cheerful. He took a definite and passionate interest in my candidacy and therefore took time to mentor me, educate me and guide me through all stages ranging from the initial contact to the interviews, post interview processes, visa application, booking of flight and even while I had relocated to UK thereby enriching my knowledge and refining my approach. Ronak was apt in commending successes, correcting my approach to issues where necessary, and building strength in my abilities with high sense of humility and responsibility. Amidst his tight schedules he took time to call on regular basis to check on me, find out my progress, guide me and review any of my correspondences and above all ensuring I connect with my employer, manager and work mates in a seamless manner. His constant follow up was my greatest inspiration and motivation to this position. Based on my wonderful experience with him several of my colleagues have requested that as soon as they are done with their registration processes they would be pleased to be connected to Mr Ronak for their recruitment journey. I must sincerely, appreciate Mr Ronak for all the great things and wonderful experience I have continued to enjoy in his hands. I'm also grateful to the agency, Permanent & Locum Hire for their great job and the gift of Mr Ronak. Thank you

Sonographer - Placed with a Top Private Hospital in London

Rahul is a very conscientious and hardworking individual. He strives to provide consistent support to his clients wherever they are working and is always on hand should we have any queries or problems. A very patient and knowledgeable agent and I'd be lost without him on my locum contracts. Highly recommended.

Senior Nurse Endoscopist- Placed with a Top Private Hospital

My first contract with Permanent hire was an unexpected call from Chris Taylor. I liked the way that he immediately engaged me and was upfront with the reason for his call. When we had time to speak further I appreciated his concise answers to my questions. Chris has managed the communication and interview processes very well. Keeping me updated of all developments and delays throughout the process. I was particularly impressed when, due to a bereavement I had to delay moving forward for a time. He managed this well, and the message of condolence he sent was as kind as it was unexpected. Thank you Chris. At interview time he gave me a fairly clear idea of what to expect. I was expecting a thorough interview and this was what transpired! None of our interactions added to the stress of the process though. Thank you. I wasn't expecting to change roles when we first spoke. Now, I am excited to be moving back into a more exacting work environment.

MRI Radiographer- Placed with a Top Private Hospital in Kent

Highly skilled and happy to help in his respective field. Would like to carry on work with him and build a long and strong working relationship. Best of luck Gaurang.

Senior Nurse Endoscopist - Placed with a Top Private Hospital

I am feeling so glad and so lucky to write about Permanent and Locum Hire Recruitment Agency. Agency helped me to find permanent job in London with my requirement of sponsorship. Senior Recruitment Consultant, Mr. Gaurang is the best consultant who shines with his punctuality, speed of service and daily updates with solution of all queries. In a few more words, I would suggest my known people to take service of this agency who helps to grow your future.

Senior Healthcare Assistant- Placed with Neuro-Rehab Home

I joined my current organisation in early 2022, when most organisations in the industry were experiencing staffing challenges. Nirav and his team at Permanent & Locum Hire have made my job easier. They were able to source quality candidates quickly, particularly for some of our niche roles. I felt that our requirements were well understood, and they offered advice and ideas around market conditions and potential solutions to difficulties. The friendly touch was an added bonus!

HR Director - Group of Rehabilitation Care Homes

Nirav managed to place a really difficult Nurse's post we were working on for some time. I spoke with Nirav and told him what we were looking for and what I was struggling with and within a few weeks he already found the perfect candidate. Nirav kept me updated regularly with her approachable and lovely emails and was very easy to work with. I look forward to working with Permanent & Locum Hire on future vacancies!

Kirsty, Compliance & Placement Manager-Specialist Care Home in Birmingham

Nirav and the team at Permanent & Locum Hire are our go to recruitment company. They always ensure that they find us the right people in the correct location when we need staff. They truly understand the business and we could not be happier!

Alistair, HR Manager - Private Mental Health Hospitals, Surrey

Working directly with Nirav has been a great experience. He listens and understands my exacting requirements and is able to seek out the best candidates to suit my business. Obstetric Sonographers aren't the easiest of employees to find, but Nirav used his ingenuity and found a channel which brings them to market successfully. It's no wonder that Nirav's company, Permanent & Locum Hire, has been selected as the 'Recruiter of Choice' for our Group of Companies!

David, Multi - Clinic Owner - UK’s leading Private Baby Scans Clinics

I have found Permanent & Locum Hire the most efficient recruitment agency, in their communication, responsivity and providing high quality staff. I have found they listen to feedback and respond accordingly. Very impressed!

Grace, CAMHS Lead-Private Hospital, Hertfordshire.

Nirav managed to place a really difficult Nurse's post we were working on for some time. I spoke with Nirav and told him what we were looking for and what I was struggling with and within a few weeks he already found the perfect candidate. Nirav kept me updated regularly with his approachable and lovely emails and was very easy to work with. I look forward to working with Permanent & Locum Hire on future vacancies!

Kirsty, Compliance and Placement Manager - Specialist Care Home in Birmingham.

In the space of only a year Permanent & Locum Hire (P&LH) have been able to source a number of international Obstetric Sonographers for our group of baby scan clinics, 3 of whom are already in situ and working in harmony with our lovely clients, and with a further 2 about to join us. Working with P&LH has meant we remain on target with our expansion plans to extend our fabulous experience of private pregnancy scans to a wider geography, as we continue to grow. Claire, General Manager, Pregnancy Scanning Clinics.

International Obstetric Sonographers-UK Private Clinics

HR Director-Group of Rehabilitation Care Homes.

The whole team has been amazing at supporting our hospital with clinical nursing roles. Every candidate submitted has been on par with what we are looking for in terms of skillset and experience. We have received an individualised and professional service from all the consultants here. They have efficiently arranged interviews and followed through the whole recruitment process from on-boarding to offer. We have successfully recruited several nurses through Permanent & Locum Hire and will continue to use their services for our on-going needs.