What is the Health & Care Worker Visa?
The Health and Care Worker Visa is a fast-tracked visa route designed to attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals from overseas. It allows you to live and work in the UK for an initial period, with the possibility of extending your stay and eventually settling permanently.
Who can apply for the UK Spouse Visa?
To qualify for the Health and Care Worker Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a qualified doctor, nurse, health professional, or adult social care worker as defined by the UK government. This includes specific occupations listed under the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes.
- Have a job offer in an eligible role with the NHS, an NHS supplier, or an adult social care provider that is licensed by the Home Office.
- Meet the minimum salary threshold for your specific healthcare profession.
What are the requirements?
The specific requirements for obtaining a Health and Care Worker Visa. These include, but are not limited to:
- Proof of your healthcare qualifications and professional registration.
- A valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by your prospective employer in the UK.
- English language proficiency requirements
- Passing a tuberculosis (TB) test.
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How to apply for health & care worker visa?
The application process for a health and care worker visa can be complex. We are here to guide you through. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Secure a job offer with an eligible employer who can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Gather the required documents
- Complete the online application form.
- Pay the visa application fee
- Submit your application and supporting documents to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)Additional criteria may apply depending on your specific circumstances.
How much does it cost?
The current application fee for a Health and Care Worker Visa is £1,523.
Additional fees may apply depending on your circumstances, such as the healthcare surcharge and priority service fees.
Refer to the UK government website for fees
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How how long does it take to process?
It typically takes around 6 months to receive a decision from UKVI.
However, processing time can vary depending on individual circumstances.
What happens when the visa is issued?
Once granted the Health and Care Worker Visa, you can travel to the UK and begin your healthcare career.
The initial visa is usually valid for up to five years.
You may be eligible to extend your visa and eventually obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing you to live permanently in the UK.
Can the visa be extended?
Yes, the Health and Care Worker Visa can be extended after the initial validity period.
You can typically apply to extend your visa for further periods, paving the way for permanent residency in the UK.
Get in touch with us to learn how we can support your visa application