Health and Care Worker Visa

The Health and Care Worker visa allows individuals to come to the UK to work in health or social care roles. It is designed to address the shortage of skilled workers in the healthcare sector and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system. This visa enables qualified professionals such as doctors, nurses, and care workers to contribute to the UK’s healthcare system.

This visa can lead to settlement in the UK, depending on the specific circumstances and eligibility.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Health and Care Worker Visa, you must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:

• You are aged 18 or over.
• You have a job offer from an approved UK employer that is listed on the Home Office register of licensed sponsors.
• Your job is eligible under the Health and Care Worker visa, which includes roles in healthcare, nursing, social care, and medical practitioners.
• You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK sponsor.
• The job you will undertake is skilled to at least RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent).
• You meet the salary requirement, which is usually at least £20,960 per year or £10.10 per hour, depending on the job.
• You have sufficient funds to support yourself without relying on public funds.
• You have provided a valid TB certificate, if required.

Duration of Stay

You can stay in the UK with a Health and Care Worker visa for whichever is shorter of:

• The duration specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days.
• 5 years in total.

You may be able to extend your visa or switch to another immigration route if you meet the requirements.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before your job start date in the UK, as listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship. As part of your application, you will need to:

• Prove your identity.
• Provide the required documents.
• You may need an appointment to complete this process, which can add time to your application. You will be informed if an appointment is necessary.

Decision Timeframe

• 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
• 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Work for your sponsor in the job described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Bring your partner and children as dependants, if eligible.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK.
• Apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) in the UK after 5 years, provided you meet the requirements.

What You Cannot Do:

• Apply for most benefits (public funds) or the state pension.
• Change jobs unless you meet eligibility criteria and update your visa.
• Work in a role that is not on the list of eligible occupations.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Health and Care Worker visa application process seamless and stress-free!