The UK Health and care worker visa is among the most sought-after immigration programs among healthcare specialists who wish to move to the United Kingdom to live and work. The visa enables qualified doctors, nurses, and other allied health professionals to serve in the UK with the advantages of long-term settlement in the global healthcare industry.
In case you are intending to pursue your career in the UK healthcare industry, this comprehensive guide will take you through the process of obtaining a UK Health and Care Worker Visa, qualification criteria, documents, fees, and a step-by-step approach of moving to permanent status.
What is UK Health and Care Worker Visa?
The Health and Care Worker Visa enables medical professionals to practice with the NHS (National Health Service), suppliers of NHS or adult social care. It falls under the Skilled Worker route but with less visa costs, priority, and absence of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), it is a favorable option to most healthcare workers in the world.
Who can apply?
You can apply if you:
- Have qualified health professional (doctor, nurse, healthcare assistant, therapist or social worker).
- A valid job offer by a UK employer that is endorsed by the Home Office.
- Meet the requirement of English language.
- Be issued with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) by your employer.
UK Health and Care Worker Visa Eligibility.
In order to be eligible for this visa, you have to fulfill the following criteria:
a. Employment opportunity offered by a valid employer.
Your employer has to be a Home Office sponsor. You will get a Certificate of Sponsorship that will contain information regarding your job, salary, and eligibility.
b. Eligible occupation codes
You should be employed in one of the qualified healthcare professions, which include:
- Doctors, surgeons, other medical professionals.
- Registered midwives and registered nurses.
- Physiotherapists, radiographers, pharmacists.
- Senior care, healthcare assistants.
- Laboratory technologists and medical scientists.
c. Minimum salary requirement.
You should receive no less than the minimum salary rate or the current rate of wages in your job, whichever is greater.
Typically, the salary begins at approximately £23,200 per annum, however, this depends on the position.
d. Fluency in English language.
In order to demonstrate your proficiency in English, you need to provide one of the following:
- A recognized English test IELTS/TOEFL.
- A degree taught in English.
- English speaking citizenship.
How to apply for a Health and Care Worker Visa step-by-step.
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Get a position in a recognised UK healthcare employer (NHS, nursing home or NHS supplier). After being chosen, your employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), reference number to use when applying to have a visa.
Step 2: Observe the Documents that are required.
Have ready the following documents before you apply:
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Evidence of English language proficiency.
- Job offer letter
- Evidence of qualification (medical degree, nursing certificate, etc.)
- Evidence of finances (where necessary, normally £1,270 to keep you)
Step 3: Apply Online
Go to the UK government site and complete the application form which is called Health and Care Worker Visa. You will be required to key in your CoS number, occupation code and personal details.
Step 4: Pay Visa Fees
The cost of the visa application will vary depending on the period of your stay:
- Up to 3 years: £284
- More than 3 years: £551
You do not have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is a major cost-saving advantage since other types of visas require you to pay this sum.
Step 5: Supporting Documents and Biometrics.
You will be required to attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) where you will be required to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo). Post/ submit your documents at this stage.
Step 6: Wait for Decision
The majority of the applications are completed in 3 weeks following biometrics. After doing this, you will be issued with a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport.
Duration, Extension, and Family Benefits.
The Health and Care Worker Visa is typically awarded within a term of 5 years. Your visa can be extended provided that you are employed by a qualifying employer.
Also, you may bring your dependants (spouse and children) to the UK, who are allowed full employment and educational rights.
Pathway to UK Permanent Residency (PR).
The biggest benefit of this visa is that it results into UK permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
You can apply for UK PR Visa after 5 years in case you:
- Worked and lived all her life in the UK.
- Have not spent over 180 days having left the UK within any 12 months.
- Keep on with the salary and job requirements.
- Pass the Life in the UK Test.
Upon obtaining ILR, you will have the freedom to live, work or study in the UK without any immigration controls, a good move towards becoming a British citizen.
Why Consult an Expert?
The need to apply to the UK Health and Care Worker Visa involves a demand to prepare the documents carefully and follow the immigration laws. In case of accuracy and quick approval, most of the professionals prefer to deal with the Best UK Immigration Consultant in India.
The assistance of a trusted consultant can assist you:
- Find the appropriate job in the NHS or other care sector according to your profile.
- Prepare your visa applications and CoS.
- Direct you in PR and family visa applications.
- No expensive errors and rejections.
Conclusion
The UK Health and Care Worker Visa is an unbelievable chance to work in one of the most developed healthcare frameworks globally and open the door to permanent residency. Under proper guidance and preparation, your dream of living and working in the UK will be achieved.
You can begin your journey and you can start with the Best UK Immigration Consultant in India today and take the first step on your successful healthcare career in the UK.