--- title: "Health and Care Visa 2024: Updates, Eligibility, and Changes" url: https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/health-and-care-visa-2024-updates-eligibility-and-changes/ date: 2024-01-12 modified: 2026-06-02 lang: en author: "Tehreem Fatima" description: "The Health and Care Visa is a crucial avenue for healthcare professionals worldwide to contribute to the UK's health and social care sector. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into..." categories: - "Business Immigration" - "Certificate of Sponsorship" - "Dependent Visas" - "Dependent Visas" - "Family Members" - "Health and Care visa" - "Home Office" - "Home Office Updates" - "Immigration Rules" - "Immigration Rules Update" - "Indefinite Leave to Remain" - "New Immigration System" - "News" - "Points Based System" - "Shortage Occupation List" - "UK Immigration" - "UK Immigration" - "UK Immigration Policy" tags: - "#indefiniteleavetoremain" - "#ukimmigration" - "care worker" - "care workers" - "Certificate of Sponsorship" - "Child dependent" - "COS" - "David J Foster & Co" - "David J Foster & Co Solicitor" - "dependants" - "dependants of skilled worker" - "Dependent Visas" - "DJF Solicitors" - "health and care worker" - "health and care worker visa" - "Home Office" - "Home Office Changes" - "Home Office Policy Update" - "Home Office Update" - "Home Office Updates" - "ILR" - "Immigration Changes" - "Immigration Policy" - "Immigration Rules Update" - "Indefinite Leave" - "Indefinite Leave to Remain" - "Lexvisa" - "New health and care visa" - "Points Based System Dependant" - "Shortage Occupation" - "Shortage Occupation List" - "SOC" - "SoC Code" - "spring 2024" - "standard occupation code" - "UK Immigration" - "UK Immigration Advice" - "UK Immigration Policy" - "UK Immigration Solicitors/ Lawyers" - "Updates" image: https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/pexels-photo-339620-1-1024x576.jpeg word_count: 749 --- # Health and Care Visa 2024: Updates, Eligibility, and Changes *The Health and Care Visa is a crucial avenue for healthcare professionals worldwide to contribute to the UK's health and social care sector. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the key aspects of the Health and Care Worker Visa, shedding light on the recent updates, eligibility criteria, and the imminent changes set to take effect in Spring 2024.* ## Eligibility Criteria for Health and Care Visa The [Health and Care Visa](https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa) is designed for qualified professionals, including doctors, nurses, and social care workers, offering a streamlined process for entry into the UK. To be eligible, applicants must secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor within specified [Standard Occupational Classification ("SOC") codes](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/uk-shortage-occupation-list-2024-updates/). These codes encompass various roles crucial to the healthcare sector, such as medical practitioners, nurses, and social workers. ### No Dependants Rule It's essential to note that, as of Spring 2024, a significant change will come into effect. The Health and Care Worker Visa will no longer allow dependant family members to accompany the visa holder to the UK. This marks a departure from the previous regulations, emphasising the need for prospective applicants to stay informed of these updates. ## Key Advantages of the Health and Care Visa The Health and Care Visa offers several advantages over the Skilled Worker Visa. These include fast-tracked processing, lower application fees, and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge. These benefits, coupled with the [expertise of DJF Solicitors](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/), make the Health and Care Visa an attractive option for healthcare professionals looking to work and potentially settle in the UK. ## Requirements and Processing Times Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as holding a valid [Certificate of Sponsorship ("COS")](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/sponsorship-management-system-sms/), meeting salary thresholds, and demonstrating proficiency in English. The visa application process involves providing various documents, including passports, sponsorship details, and proof of financial stability. The Health and Care Visa application typically undergoes prioritised processing by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), resulting in quicker decisions within approximately three weeks. However, delays may occur, and staying informed about current processing times is crucial. ## Changes in Supplementary Work and Second Job Opportunities In a recent development, Health and Care Visa holders have been granted flexibility in supplementary employment, surpassing the previous 20-hour cap. This allows qualified professionals to take on additional work related to their primary role without notifying the Home Office. ## Changing Jobs and Extending the Health and Care Visa Health and Care workers must notify the Home Office when changing jobs or employers. The visa can be extended for up to five years, with the possibility of settling under Indefinite Leave to Remain after the qualifying period. The extension process involves meeting salary thresholds, maintaining the same role, and fulfilling other eligibility criteria. ## Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain Health and Care workers can apply for [Indefinite Leave to Remain](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/settlement-indefinite-leave-to-remain/) after residing in the UK for five years under the visa. Meeting specific requirements, including passing the [Life in the UK test](https://www.gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test/what-happens-test) and maintaining continuous sponsorship, is crucial for a successful application. [Contact](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/legal-case-assessment/) our team of [dedicated experts](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/) to enquire whether you are eligible for ILR, information on the requirements and assistance with the application. ## Conclusion The Health and Care Visa remains a vital gateway for healthcare professionals to contribute to the UK's healthcare sector. With the upcoming changes in Spring 2024, it's imperative to stay informed and seek expert guidance. [DJF Solicitors, as a leading London Law Firm with specialist Immigration Solicitors](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/), ensures a smooth and successful Health and Care Visa application, guiding applicants through the evolving landscape of immigration rules. ## Why Choose DJF Solicitors – Leading London Immigration Law Firm Navigating the intricacies of the Health and Care Visa requires expert guidance. As a [leading London Law Firm with specialist Immigration Solicitors](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/), DJF stands out as the go-to choice for ensuring a seamless application process. Our team of [expert Immigration Solicitors](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/) understands the nuances of the Health and Care Visa Spring 2024 changes, including the new dependants rule. With our support, applicants can navigate these changes with confidence, ensuring a thorough and successful visa application. ## Contact Us We are a [UK law firm based in Middle Temple, London](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/pages/contact/) and our solicitors are fully authorised by the [Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)](https://www.sra.org.uk/). [Contact](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/legal-case-assessment/) our [professional personal immigration team ](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/)today and we can offer you a consultation in person or via telephone or Teams so we can explore your options. You can leave us a message on our [Contact Form](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/pages/contact/) or give us a call on 02030110276. For in-depth guidance and support, choose our[ leading London Immigration Law Firm](https://immigrationandvisasolicitors.co.uk/) to ensure a seamless and compliant UK visa experience.