The Health and Care Worker Visa is an essential pathway for qualified professionals such as doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and adult social care workers seeking employment in the UK. As part of the Skilled Worker Visa category, this visa not only enables eligible individuals to contribute to the UK’s healthcare sector but also opens a pathway to settlement after five years. Below, we delve into the key aspects of the Health and Care Worker Visa, its requirements, and why our leading London law firm is your best partner in handling this process.
What Is the Health and Care Worker Visa?
Introduced to address critical shortages in the UK healthcare sector, the Health and Care Worker Visa is specifically tailored for professionals undertaking roles in health and social care. This visa is particularly appealing due to its reduced fees, exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and fast-tracked processing times.
Applicants can bring dependent family members, although recent changes mean dependents of care workers and senior care workers (occupation codes 6145 and 6146) can no longer apply to join them in the UK.
Our London law firm offers unparalleled expertise in assisting clients with every stage of the Health and Care Worker Visa process, from assessing eligibility to compiling a strong application.
Are you Eligible?
To qualify for a Health and Care Worker Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 18 or older.
- Occupational Qualification: Must be a doctor, nurse, allied health professional, or an adult social care worker.
- Eligible Job Role: The role must fall under specific Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes.
- Approved Employer: Employment must be with a UK health or care sector employer licensed by the Home Office.
- Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by the approved employer.
- Salary Threshold: The offered salary must meet general and role-specific thresholds.
- English Proficiency: CEFR Level B1 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0).
- Financial Maintenance: Proof of £1,270 in funds (unless exempt).
- Criminal Record Check: Mandatory for applicants working with vulnerable populations.
- TB Certificate: Required if applying from certain countries.
Dealing with these requirements can be daunting. Our law firm has a proven track record of simplifying the process, ensuring compliance, and maximising the success rate of visa applications.
What Roles Can you apply for?
Only specific roles within the health and care sectors qualify for this visa. Our team ensures your role aligns with the eligible SOC codes and provides guidance on any documentation your employer may need to support your application.
Why Choose Our Law Firm?
Securing a Health and Care Worker Visa involves detailed paperwork, compliance with UK immigration laws, and often tight deadlines. Our firm stands out by offering:
- Expert Knowledge: Decades of experience in UK immigration law.
- Personalised Service: Tailored advice based on your unique circumstances.
- Efficient Application Preparation: Ensuring accuracy and completeness to minimise delays.
- Trusted Partner for Employers: Assisting sponsors in obtaining and maintaining Sponsor Licences.
With a dedicated team of immigration specialists, we provide comprehensive support, from initial consultation to post-application queries.
What are the Salary and Employment Conditions?
Visa applicants must meet specific salary thresholds depending on their job role and qualifications:
- General Threshold: £29,000 annually for most roles.
- Care Worker Roles: £23,200, subject to additional conditions for tradable points.
If you’re unsure whether your salary package qualifies, our firm’s expertise ensures you meet all requirements. We also liaise directly with your employer to address any gaps.
The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
A valid CoS from an authorised employer is essential. This electronic document confirms your job details, salary, and how the position meets visa criteria. For care worker and senior care worker roles, employers must also be regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Our firm collaborates with employers to ensure that all CoS requirements are met, streamlining the process for applicants.
Benefits of the Health and Care Worker Visa
The Health and Care Worker Visa offers significant advantages:
- Reduced Visa Fees: Lower costs compared to other visa categories.
- Fast-Track Processing: Decisions typically within three weeks.
- Exemption from IHS: Saving applicants and dependents thousands in surcharges.
- Settlement Pathway: Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) eligibility after five years.
As your legal partner, we not only guide you through the application but also assist with extensions and settlement applications in the future.
Switching and Extensions
Applicants in certain visa categories can switch to the Health and Care Worker Visa, provided they meet eligibility criteria. Extensions are possible if the applicant remains in the same job or occupation code and continues working with the same employer.
Application Fees
Visa fees are lower for Health and Care Worker applicants, and these reduced rates extend to their dependents. The online application process automatically applies the fee reduction when eligibility is confirmed.
When to Apply?
The UK healthcare sector continues to face staffing challenges, making it an opportune time to apply under this visa route. However, immigration policies can change, and acting promptly ensures you benefit from the current favourable conditions.
By choosing our London law firm, you gain a trusted partner committed to delivering results. Contact us today for a consultation and let our expertise transform your Health and Care Worker Visa application into a success story.