The healthcare industry has experienced a significant increase in the issuance of long-term work visas as a result of the pressing issue of a shortage of health and care workers. In 2023, the number of care worker visas issued was an astonishing 77,000, which was six times the number in 2022.
This expansion may be attributable to the UK government’s determination to designate geriatric care workers as a shortage occupation in 2021. The list was subsequently expanded by the government in February 2022 to include caregivers. The number of immigrants who were granted visas under this highly sought-after category increased from 24,348 to 40,943 in the year ending in June 2022.
The health and care worker visa was introduced in August 2020 of the subsequent year for medical professionals who aspire to work for the National Health Service, its suppliers, or adult social care.
Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility requirements for the health and care worker visa are as follows:
- The candidate must possess an employment offer from a UK business that is recognized by the Home Office and be a licensed professional in the sector.
- Additionally, possess a certificate of sponsorship.
- Furthermore, satisfies the criteria for the statutory minimum salary.
- Also, international degrees must be equivalent to those in the United Kingdom.
- Most importantly, proficiency in the English language
You may submit your application online in a timely and convenient manner. Subsequently, you undertake biometric verification at the visa application center. The visa cost and the duration of stay are subject to change, and the processing time may exceed three weeks. If required, your visa is extended for a maximum of five years. If you are the visa holder, your dependents are permitted to accompany you.
In addition, you will be eligible to petition for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK after five years, which may lead to permanent residency or citizenship rights.
UK Health and Care Worker Visa – All You Need to Know
The UK Health and Care Worker Visa 2023 enables medical professionals, nurses, doctors, and adult social workers who satisfy the necessary criteria to enter or remain in the United Kingdom to engage in the health and social care sector. It is one approach to obtaining a qualified worker visa in the United Kingdom. Health and care personnel are eligible to apply for a visa for a maximum of five years. If you continue to possess a work offer from a UK employer that has been approved by the Home Office, you may receive an extension of your visa.
Salary of Health and Care Worker
Annually, the minimum wage for a Health and Care Worker visa is £20,480 for the majority of occupations. Positions that pay £25,600 annually necessitate a Master’s degree or its equivalent.
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Jobs That Qualify for a Health and Social Worker Visa
- Technicians in the pharmaceutical industry
- Dental and medical technicians
- Health associates
- Biochemists and biological specialists
- Directors and administrators of public health and health services
- Managers and owners of residential, day, and domiciliary care facilities
- pharmacists
- Ophthalmic opticians
- dentists
- Radiographers who specialize in medical imaging
- Nurses
- Midwives
- Social counselors
- Technicians in the laboratory
- Paramedics
- Optical dispensers
- Physical physicists
- Physicians
- Psychiatrist
- Auxiliaries and assistants in the field of nursing
- Dental caregivers
- Home carers and care staff
- Workers in the field of senior care
- Podiatrists
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational specialists
- Speech and language specialists
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Health and Care Worker visa, you must:
- Possess a license to practice adult social work, nursing, medicine, or another healthcare profession.
- Subsequently, assume a role that contributes to the provision of social or health services.
- Furthermore, employment with a UK-based organization that has been authorized by the Home Office is permitted.
- Additionally, obtain a “certificate of sponsorship” from your employer that delineates the position you will assume in the United Kingdom.
- The final step is to receive a minimum salary that is contingent upon the amount of work you perform.
Visa Costs
- For three years: £247 per individual
- Over three years: £479 per individual
For what length of time is your Health and Care Work Visa valid in the UK?
Your visa is valid for a maximum of five years before it must be renewed. Then, you will be able to apply to become a permanent resident of the United Kingdom.
Apply for a UK Health and Care Worker Visa Here
Benefits of UK Health and Care Visa
- Fast-Track Processing: The Health and Care Visa provides a simplified application process that is generally more efficient than traditional visa routes. This facilitates the rapid integration of qualified professionals into the UK workforce.
- Reduced Visa Fees: The Health and Care Visa is more feasible for applicants due to the reduced visa application fees in comparison to other work visas.
- No Immigration Health Surcharge: Visa holders are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is a substantial cost savings. This surcharge provides access to the National Health Service (NHS).
- Settlement Pathway: The Health and Care Visa offers a route to permanent residence (indefinite leave to remain) in the United Kingdom. Individuals may be eligible to petition for settlement after five years of continuous residence under this visa.
- Family Members: Visa holders are permitted to bring their dependents (spouse, companion, and children) to the United Kingdom, where they will also be permitted to work and study.
- Job Flexibility: The visa is associated with specific positions within the health and care sectors; however, it permits job adjustments within the sector without the necessity of a new visa.
- Holders of this visa are in a favorable position, as there are numerous employment opportunities available, due to the high demand for healthcare professionals in the UK.
- Qualification Recognition: The visa facilitates the recruitment of professionals with established qualifications and experience, guaranteeing that the skills and knowledge of applicants are acknowledged.
- Professional Development Support: The UK health and care sector offers opportunities for professional development, further training, and experience in a sophisticated and diverse healthcare system.
- Positive Impact: The UK’s healthcare system is significantly impacted by the contributions of visa holders, who address critical personnel shortages. This has a significant impact on public health and patient care.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the requirement for a healthcare visa in the UK?
Work in an eligible health or social care job. Work for a UK-approved employer. Your employer should provide a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ detailing the role they have offered you in the UK. Your minimum salary will vary based on the nature of your work.
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Can I go to the UK with 4.5 bands?
Candidates scoring 4.5 bands in IELTS will not be considered for admission to the courses. Can I get a UK PR without IELTS? Candidates can choose to take the Duolingo English Test (DET) or Pearson Test of English (PTE), as many UK universities accept them.
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How much is the UK health care visa fee?
Application fees for up to three years are £284 per person. more than 3 years—£551 per person.
