In response to a critical shortage of healthcare professionals, the UK’s Health and Care Visa presents an attractive route for overseas professionals to work within the UK’s health and social care sectors. This visa, tailored to address staffing shortages in the NHS and other healthcare settings, provides unique benefits such as reduced fees, exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge, and fast-tracked processing. Here, we outline the complete eligibility requirements, the application process, cost, and conditions, with comparisons to other visa types to help applicants make informed decisions.
What is the Health and Care Visa?
The Health and Care Visa was created for healthcare professionals from around the world who are seeking employment with licensed UK employers in critical roles, such as doctors, registered nurses, pharmacists, and adult social care workers. The visa allows these individuals to work in the UK for up to five years, with the option to apply for extensions or settle permanently.
In contrast to the Skilled Worker Visa, which covers a broad range of sectors, the Health and Care Visa focuses solely on healthcare, streamlining the entry process for those in eligible roles. Successful applicants benefit from reduced visa fees, a dedicated application processing team, and the opportunity to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years, gaining freedom from visa sponsorship requirements.
Key Benefits of the Health and Care Visa
- Reduced Application Fees – Lower costs compared to the Skilled Worker Visa.
- Immigration Health Surcharge Exemption – No surcharge for applicants and dependents.
- Fast-Tracked Processing – Standard processing time is three weeks from the date of biometric submission.
- Dedicated Support Team – A specialised NHS visa processing team is available for additional guidance.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Occupational Requirements: The visa is limited to certain roles within the health and care sectors, defined by Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes. These include:
- Health services and public health managers and directors (SOC 1171)
- Generalist and specialist medical practitioners (SOC 2211, 2212)
- Registered nurses and mental health nurses (SOC 2231, 2235)
- Pharmacists, physiotherapists, and other health professionals
- Sponsor Requirements: Applicants must secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor, which could be an NHS body, medical services provider to the NHS, or an adult social care organisation registered with the relevant professional bodies (e.g., the General Medical Council, Nursing and Midwifery Council).
- Salary Threshold: For applications submitted after April 2024, applicants must meet either a base salary threshold of £23,200 or £29,000, depending on whether they work on a national pay scale. Certain roles, such as those on the Immigration Salary List, allow applicants to meet lower salary thresholds if they hold relevant qualifications (e.g., PhD in STEM fields).
Specific Eligibility Requirements for the Health and Care Visa
The Health and Care Visa aligns closely with the Skilled Worker Visa requirements, which include:
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): A valid CoS from a licensed UK sponsor.
- Job Offer in Eligible Role: The offer must meet the SOC code criteria and salary thresholds.
- Financial Maintenance Requirement: Unless financially guaranteed by an A-rated sponsor, applicants must show £1,270 in personal savings for 28 consecutive days prior to the application.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must prove proficiency in English, typically through an approved test or by holding an academic qualification recognised as equivalent to a UK degree.
- Health and Criminal Record Checks: A tuberculosis test is required for applicants from certain countries, along with a criminal record certificate if working with vulnerable populations.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
- Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship: Secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor who will provide a CoS.
- Complete the Online Application: Submit the application on the Home Office website using the CoS reference number.
- Biometric Appointment or ID Verification: After submitting, applicants may book a biometric appointment or use an ID app if eligible.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Key documents include a valid passport, CoS, sponsor details, job title and salary details, English language proof, financial maintenance evidence, and health and criminal record certificates if required.
Costs and Processing Time
The Health and Care Visa is known for its affordability and quick turnaround:
- Visa Fees: £284 for those with a three-year CoS, or £551 for longer sponsorships. These rates apply to applicants and dependents alike.
- Processing Time: Fast-tracked processing typically results in decisions within three weeks.
- Health Surcharge Exemption: No Immigration Health Surcharge is required for this visa category, a key financial benefit.
Dependants and Family Members
Most visa holders are permitted to bring dependants, defined as spouses, civil partners, or children under 18. However, due to regulatory changes in March 2024, care workers and senior care workers (SOC codes 6135 and 6136) cannot bring dependants. This policy is not retroactive; it applies to new applicants only.
Conditions of Employment and Flexibility in Work
Health and Care Visa holders have the flexibility to undertake additional work under certain conditions. If the extra work aligns with the same SOC code or is on the Immigration Salary List, visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week without needing to update their visa. However, changes such as switching employers or roles that deviate from the original SOC code must be reported to the Home Office.
Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After five years, Health and Care Visa holders can apply for ILR, provided they meet the following conditions:
- Continuous Residence: No more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period.
- Continued Sponsorship and Employment: Applicants must still be employed in a qualifying role, earning the required salary.
- Life in the UK and English Language Tests: Both tests are required as part of the ILR application.
- Dependants Eligibility for ILR: Family members must apply individually for ILR if they wish to remain in the UK.
How the Health and Care Visa Compares to Other Visa Routes
The Health and Care Visa is structured to cater specifically to healthcare professionals, unlike the broader Skilled Worker Visa, which covers a range of sectors across the economy. Key differences include:
- Lower Fees and Faster Processing: The Health and Care Visa offers a distinct advantage with reduced fees and prioritised processing.
- Limited Eligibility Scope: Only healthcare roles are eligible, narrowing the applicant pool to those with critical skills in health and social care.
- Health Surcharge Exemption: Exemption from the surcharge provides significant savings, especially for applicants with dependants.
Extension and Transition to ILR
Extensions are available for Health and Care Visa holders who continue to meet eligibility requirements, including the salary threshold, role, and sponsorship criteria. After five years, rather than an extension, applicants may choose to apply for ILR, granting freedom from visa conditions and the right to change employers or roles without immigration restrictions.
Final Takes: A Strategic Immigration Route for Essential Healthcare Talent
The Health and Care Visa offers a timely and strategic solution to the UK’s healthcare staffing challenges, fostering the entry of qualified, skilled professionals essential for maintaining and strengthening the NHS and social care sectors. For overseas healthcare professionals, this visa provides an efficient, affordable, and supportive pathway to contribute to the UK’s healthcare infrastructure and access long-term residence. As the healthcare sector continues to face high demand, this immigration route remains vital in bolstering the UK’s workforce, benefiting both healthcare providers and the communities they serve.
Get in touch: For a comprehensive understanding of your options or queries on UK immigration matters, contact GigaLegal Solicitors at 02074067654 or click here to book a no-obligation consultation with an immigration expert.