Health & Care Worker Visa Overview
The Health and Care Worker Visa is a sub-category of the Skilled Worker route, specifically designed for medical professionals and adult social care workers. It carries significant cost advantages including reduced visa fees, no Immigration Health Surcharge, and faster processing times.
Who Is Eligible?
The Health and Care Worker Visa is available to individuals in specific roles, including:
- Doctors and dentists
- Nurses and midwives
- Allied health professionals (physiotherapists, radiographers, paramedics, etc.)
- Health professionals regulated by the GMC, NMC, or other UK regulatory bodies
- Adult social care workers in eligible SOC codes working for a registered CQC provider (England only)
Key Advantages Over Standard Skilled Worker Route
- Reduced visa application fee
- Exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Priority processing available
- Eligible for settlement after 5 years
Employer Requirements
The employer must be approved by the Home Office as a licensed sponsor and must operate in the health or social care sector. NHS Trusts, private hospitals, GP practices, and CQC-registered care providers can all sponsor Health and Care Worker Visa applicants where they hold a valid Sponsor Licence.
Salary Requirements
The salary requirements under the Health and Care Worker route are the same as for the Skilled Worker route — the higher of the minimum salary for the specific occupation code or the general threshold. However, certain shortage occupation provisions may apply in some cases.
Professional Registration
Many healthcare roles require professional registration with a UK regulatory body (such as the GMC, NMC, HCPC, or GDC). Britlaw Solicitors advises on the visa application process but recommends obtaining professional registration advice from the relevant regulatory body in parallel.