Category Archives: UK IMMIGRATION

Dreaming of starting a healthcare career in the UK, but have no formal experience? It is possible. While the path has recently changed, opportunities still exist for motivated individuals. However, it’s crucial to understand the new rules to avoid costly mistakes.

This step-by-step 2024 guide explains the legal pathways to move to the UK as a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) with no prior experience, detailing the visas, qualifications, and strategies you need to succeed.

Critical Update: The “Care Worker” Visa Closure

In March 2024, the UK government closed the Skilled Worker visa route for standard “Care Workers” (SOC code 6145) to new applicants. This means you can no longer get a sponsored visa for an entry-level care role from outside the UK if you are a new applicant.

But don’t lose hope! There are two legal and reliable pathways remaining:

1. The Senior Care Worker Visa Route
2. The Health and Care Worker Visa for Qualified Professionals

Let’s break down the viable pathway for someone starting from scratch.

The Only Viable Path: Become a “Senior Care Worker”

The key is to no longer target the entry-level “Care Worker” role. Instead, your goal is to qualify for the Senior Care Worker (SOC code 6146) role, which is still eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa.

What is a Senior Care Worker?

A Senior Care Worker has more responsibility than a basic care assistant. They might supervise a team, manage complex care plans, administer medication, and take a lead role in patient support.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for 2025

Step 1: Meet the Core Eligibility Requirements

Even without experience, you must meet these baseline criteria:

• Language Skills: Achieve a minimum of CEFR Level B1 in English (IELTS 4.0 or equivalent in all four components). This is a visa requirement.
• Financial Requirements: Show you have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days to support yourself, unless your future employer certifies your maintenance.
• Character: Provide a clean criminal record certificate.

Step 2: Gain Foundational Qualifications & Training

Since you lack experience, you need qualifications to make you a credible candidate for a senior role. Invest in these before you apply for jobs:

• Care Certificate: This is a UK standard for all HCAs. While you’ll complete it on the job in the UK, having prior knowledge is a huge advantage.
• NVQ/Diploma in Health and Social Care (Level 3): A Level 3 qualification is often the minimum expected for a senior role. You can often find online courses that provide the theoretical knowledge.
• Other Valuable Certificates:
  • First Aid at Work
  • Moving and Handling of People
  • Safeguarding Adults (and Children)
  • Medication Administration Training

These qualifications show employers you are serious and have a foundational understanding, compensating for your lack of hands-on experience.

Click Here To Learn More: How to Secure a UK Certificate of Sponsorship as a Healthcare Worker: The 2025 Guide

Step 3: Secure a Job with a Licensed Sponsor (The Hardest Step)

This is the most challenging part. You must find a UK employer who:

1. Holds a valid Sponsor Licence.
2. Is willing to hire you into a Senior Care Worker role despite your lack of formal experience, based on your qualifications and attitude.

How to Find a Sponsor:

• Target Large Care Home Chains: Companies like HC-One, Barchester Healthcare, Bupa, and Care UK are more likely to have structured recruitment and sponsorship processes. Check their career pages regularly.
• Use Keywords: Search for “Senior Care Worker visa sponsorship” on job boards like Indeed.co.uk.
• Leverage Recruitment Agencies: Some UK agencies specialise in international recruitment for the care sector. Ensure they are reputable and do not charge you fees.

Step 4: Your Employer Issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once a licensed employer offers you a Senior Care Worker job, they will issue you an electronic Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is not a physical document but a reference number you need for your visa application.

Step 5: Apply for the Health and Care Worker Visa

With your CoS, you can apply for the visa. The benefits of this specific visa are significant:

• Reduced Application Fee:
  • Up to 3 years: £284
  • More than 3 years: £551
• Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): This is the biggest saving, as the standard IHS is £1,035 per year. You pay £0.
• Faster Processing: Decisions are usually made within 3 weeks.
• Bring Your Family: Your partner and children can apply as your dependents.

Alternative Pathway: The Student Visa Route

If securing a Senior Care Worker visa directly proves too difficult, consider this alternative path:

1. Come to the UK on a Student Visa: Enrol in a full-time course in Health and Social Care (e.g., a Level 3 Diploma or a foundation degree).
2. Work Part-Time: As a student, you can typically work up to 20 hours per week. Use this to get a job as a Care Worker (no sponsorship needed for this role) and gain crucial UK experience.
3. Gain Experience & Get Promoted: After your studies, you will have UK qualifications and UK experience.
4. Switch to the Health and Care Worker Visa: Your employer is now much more likely to sponsor you for a Senior Care Worker role, as you are a proven, known quantity.

Pros: Allows you to enter the UK, gain experience, and make yourself a more attractive candidate.
Cons: It is expensive (tuition fees + IHS surcharge) and does not guarantee sponsorship later.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Paying an Agency for a Job: Reputable recruitment agencies are paid by the employer, not you. Never pay a fee for a job promise.
2. Applying for “Care Worker” Roles: Since the visa route is closed, applying for these roles from outside the UK is a waste of time. Focus only on “Senior Care Worker” positions.
3. Ignoring the Language Requirement: You cannot get a visa without passing the English test. Prepare for it seriously.
4. Using an Unlicensed Sponsor: Always verify your potential employer is on the official UK Register of Licensed Sponsors.

Your Action Plan Checklist

• Pass an approved B1 English test.
• Save at least £1,270 for the financial requirement.
• Complete online courses (Care Certificate, Safeguarding, etc.) to boost your CV.
• Obtain a clean criminal record certificate.
• Create a targeted CV highlighting your new qualifications and transferable skills (compassion, communication, teamwork).
• Apply exclusively for “Senior Care Worker” roles with licensed sponsors.
• Prepare for interviews to convincingly explain your career motivation despite lacking experience.

While the path to the UK as a Healthcare Assistant without experience is now more challenging, it is not closed. By strategically aiming for a Senior Care Worker role and equipping yourself with the right qualifications and knowledge, you can build a strong case for an employer to sponsor you. It requires patience and perseverance, but a rewarding career in the UK’s care sector is still within your reach.

Start with your English test and qualifications today to build your foundation for success!

For doctors, nurses, and senior carers, the UK Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is the golden ticket you need to apply for your Health and Care Worker visa. It’s not a physical document but a unique electronic reference number that your UK employer generates to prove they are sponsoring you.

Securing this CoS is the most critical step in your journey. This guide breaks down exactly what it is, the different types, and a step-by-step strategy to get one in 2025.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic record assigned to you by a UK employer with a valid Sponsor Licence. It contains details about you and the role you’ve been offered. You need the reference number from this certificate to complete your visa application.

Key Points:

• It’s not a physical certificate or paper document.
• It does not guarantee you will get a visa, but you cannot get a visa without it.
• It is tied to the specific employer and job that sponsored you.

The Two Types of Certificates of Sponsorship

Understanding which one you need is crucial, as the process is different for each.

1. Defined Certificate of Sponsorship (for applicants OUTSIDE the UK)

This is the type you will apply for if you are recruiting from outside the UK.

• The Process: Your employer must first apply to the Home Office for this type of CoS specifically for you. They may need to prove they couldn’t fill the role with a settled worker (though this is often waived for health and care roles).
• Key Feature: It requires an extra step of approval from the Home Office before it can be assigned to you.

2. Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship (for applicants INSIDE the UK)

This type is used for workers already in the UK who are switching jobs or visas.

• The Process: The employer can assign this CoS directly from their annual allocation without needing prior approval from the Home Office.
• Key Feature: The process is faster as it doesn’t require a separate application.

Click Here To Learn More: Best Healthcare Jobs That Are in High Demand Worldwide

Your 5-Step Action Plan to Secure a CoS

You cannot apply for a CoS yourself. It must be done by your employer. Therefore, your strategy must focus on securing a job offer from the right organisation.

Step 1: Secure Your UK Professional Registration (Non-Negotiable)

You cannot get a CoS for a regulated profession without being registered with the relevant UK body. This is the most important preparatory step.

• For Nurses: You must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This process involves a computer-based test (CBT) and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE).
• For Doctors: You must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) with a licence to practise.
• For Senior Carers: While not a registered profession, you must prove you meet the skill level and requirements for the SOC code 6146.

Action: Start the registration process with your professional body before you seriously begin job hunting. Mentioning your “NMC Pin in progress” or “GMC registration” on your CV makes you a much more attractive candidate.

Step 2: Target the Right Employers (Sponsor Licence Holders)

Your job search must be focused on organisations that hold a valid UK Sponsor Licence. Applying to organisations without one is a waste of time.

Where to Find Sponsoring Employers:

• NHS Trusts: Virtually every NHS Trust in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland holds a sponsor licence. They are the largest recruiters of international health staff.
  • Examples: Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
• Large Private Healthcare Providers: Companies like BMI Healthcare, Nuffield Health, and HCA Healthcare.
• Large Care Home Chains: Providers like HC-One, Barchester Healthcare, Bupa, and Care UK sponsor Senior Care Workers (SOC 6146). Note: The standard “Care Worker” visa route is closed.

How to Check for a Sponsor Licence:

1. Use the UK Government’s official Register of Licensed Sponsors.
2. Search for the organisation by name.
3. Ensure their licence is still “A-rated” (active and in good standing).

Step 3: Excel in the Job Application & Interview

• Tailor Your CV: Create a UK-style CV (2 pages max). Clearly state your professional registration status (e.g., “NMC Pin: XYZ123” or “NMC Application in Progress”).
• Ace the Virtual Interview: Be prepared to discuss your clinical experience, the UK’s healthcare values (e.g., the NHS Constitution), and your eligibility to work in the UK. Research the Trust or care provider thoroughly.
• Ask the Right Question: It is perfectly acceptable to ask, “Can you confirm this role is eligible for sponsorship under the Health and Care Worker visa?”

Step 4: Your Employer Requests and Assigns the CoS

Once you accept a job offer, your employer will handle the CoS application.

• If you are outside the UK, they will apply for a Defined CoS. This can take the Home Office several weeks to approve. Once approved, they assign it to you.
• If you are inside the UK, they will assign you an Undefined CoS from their allocation.

You will then receive an email with your CoS reference number.

Step 5: Use the CoS to Apply for Your Visa

With the CoS number in hand, you can now complete your Health and Care Worker visa application online. You will need to enter this number as part of the process.

Inside an Employer’s Mind: The Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT)

For a Defined CoS, employers historically had to prove they couldn’t fill the role with a UK-based worker (the RLMT). However, the good news for healthcare workers is that most health and care occupations are exempt from the RLMT.

This means employers can hire you without having to advertise the role for 28 days, significantly reducing the time it takes to fill the position.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Paying for a CoS: A legitimate employer will never ask you to pay for the Certificate of Sponsorship. The cost is their responsibility.
2. Applying to Non-Sponsors: Wasting time on employers who cannot sponsor you. Always check the sponsor list first.
3. Incorrect Professional Registration: Applying for nursing jobs before you have your NMC PIN or have at least started the process.
4. Letting Your CoS Expire: You must apply for your visa within 3 months of the CoS being assigned to you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long is a Certificate of Sponsorship valid for?
A: You have 3 months to apply for your visa from the date it is assigned to you.

Q: Can I change jobs after I get my visa?
A: Yes, but you will need a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer and must apply to update your visa.

Q: How long does it take to get a Defined CoS?
A: The Home Office aims to process Defined CoS applications within 8 weeks, but it can sometimes be faster for healthcare roles.

Q: What information is on the CoS?
A: It includes your personal details, job title, salary, sponsor licence number, and the start and end date of your employment.

Your 2025 CoS Checklist

• Obtained/Initiated my UK professional registration (NMC, GMC, etc.).
• Researched and identified NHS Trusts and care providers with a valid Sponsor Licence.
• Tailored my CV to UK standards and highlighted my registration status.
• Secured a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
• Received my CoS reference number from my employer.
• Ready to submit my Health and Care Worker visa application.

Securing a Certificate of Sponsorship is a process that hinges on preparation and partnership with a licensed employer. By focusing on your professional registration and targeting the right organisations, you can successfully obtain your CoS and take the final step toward your UK healthcare career.

Your skills are in high demand. Start your targeted job search today!

The United Kingdom remains a top destination for internationally educated healthcare professionals, offering world-class career opportunities, structured pathways, and a chance to make a real difference. For nurses, doctors, senior carers, and allied health staff, knowing which organisations are actively recruiting is the first step to securing a sponsored role.

This 2025 guide highlights the top NHS Trusts and care providers known for their robust international recruitment programs, detailing what they offer and how you can get hired.

Why the UK is Actively Recruiting in 2025

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and social care sector continue to face significant staffing shortages, driven by an ageing population and workforce retirement. This has created a sustained, high demand for skilled professionals from overseas. Key benefits for international hires include:

• Sponsored Health and Care Worker Visas: Leading to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
• Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): A massive financial saving.
• Structured OSCE & Adaptation Programs: Support to pass UK licensing exams.
• Relocation Packages: Many top employers offer flight tickets, accommodation support, and settling-in allowances.

Part 1: Top NHS Trusts Hiring International Staff in 2025

These NHS Trusts have established reputable international recruitment programs. They don’t just hire you; they support your transition into the UK healthcare system.

1. Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT)

• Why They’re a Top Employer: As one of the largest NHS Trusts in the country, MFT offers unparalleled career opportunities and a massive scope of specialities.
• Roles They Recruit For: Registered Nurses (across all specialities), Midwives, Theatre Staff, Doctors.
• International Recruitment Support: They offer a dedicated international recruitment team, a structured OSCE training program, and a comprehensive preceptorship program for newly registered nurses.
• Location: Manchester, a vibrant and affordable major city.
• How to Apply: Check the MFT Careers website and filter by “International Recruitment.”

2. Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust

• Why They’re a Top Employer: Renowned for its world-class clinical reputation and location in the heart of London.
• Roles They Recruit For: Nurses (especially in ICU, Theatres, and Renal), Midwives, Allied Health Professionals.
• International Recruitment Support: Offers a robust pastoral care system, OSCE funding and preparation, and support with finding accommodation.
• Location: Central London.
• How to Apply: Visit the Guys and St Thomas’ Careers portal.

3. University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB)

• Why They’re a Top Employer: A leading Trust known for its innovation and massive scale, including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.
• Roles They Recruit For: Nurses, Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs), Doctors, and Healthcare Assistants.
• International Recruitment Support: Provides a full OSCE program, meet-and-greet services, and a 2-week supernumerary period upon arrival.
• Location: Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city.
• How to Apply: Search the UHB Jobs website.

4. NHS Scotland – Various Health Boards

• Key Health Boards: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, NHS Lothian (Edinburgh).
• Why They’re a Top Employer: Scotland offers a fantastic work-life balance, stunning landscapes, and a slightly different but equally rewarding healthcare system.
• Roles They Recruit For: All nursing specialities, mental health staff, and general practitioners.
• International Recruitment Support: Many Scottish Health Boards offer dedicated relocation packages and strong mentorship programs.
• How to Apply: Use the national NHS Scotland Jobs platform.

5. Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

• Why They’re a Top Employer: A world-famous teaching hospital trust associated with Oxford University, offering exceptional opportunities for professional development.
• Roles They Recruit For: Registered Nurses, Doctors, and specialist allied health staff.
• International Recruitment Support: Provides a comprehensive induction and OSCE support.
• Location: Oxford, a historic and academic city.
• How to Apply: Browse vacancies on the OUH Careers site.

Click Here To Learn More: The UK Health and Care Worker Visa: Ultimate Guide

Part 2: Top Care Home Providers Hiring Senior Carers in 2025

Crucial Note: As of March 2024, the standard “Care Worker” visa route was closed. However, the Health and Care Worker visa remains open for “Senior Care Workers” (SOC code 6146). These are the major providers hiring for these eligible senior roles.

1. HC-One

• Why They’re a Top Employer: One of the UK’s largest and most established care home providers, with a focus on ‘kindness.’
• Roles They Recruit For: Senior Care Assistants/Workers, Registered Nurses.
• Support Offered: Sponsorship for Senior Carers, support with NMC registration for nurses, and a structured induction.
• How to Apply: Visit the HC-One Careers page.

2. Barchester Healthcare

• Why They’re a Top Employer: A highly respected provider of luxury care homes across the UK.
• Roles They Recruit For: Senior Carer, Registered Nurse (RMN and RGN).
• Support Offered: Known for a strong commitment to training and development, and offering visa sponsorship.
• How to Apply: Check the Barchester Healthcare Careers website.

3. Bupa Care Services

• Why They’re a Top Employer: A global healthcare giant with a massive network of care homes in the UK.
• Roles They Recruit For: Senior Care Assistants, Registered Nurses.
• Support Offered: A well-defined international recruitment process with relocation support.
• How to Apply: Search for “visa sponsorship” roles on the Bupa Careers global site.

4. Care UK

• Why They’re a Top Employer: A dynamic and growing provider with modern facilities.
• Roles They Recruit For: Senior Care Workers, Nurses.
• Support Offered: Active international recruitment and sponsorship programs.
• How to Apply: Explore opportunities on the Care UK Careers page.

How to Get Hired: Your 5-Step Action Plan for 2025

1. Get Your UK Professional Registration First (Non-Negotiable):
   • Nurses: You must be registered with the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC). This involves a multi-step process: CBT, OSCE, and credential assessment.
   • Senior Carers: While not a formal register, you must prove you have the necessary experience and qualifications for a senior role.
2. Prepare a UK-Style CV (Curriculum Vitae):
   • Keep it to two pages maximum.
   • Include an “NMC Pin Status” or “Professional Registration” section.
   • Tailor your personal statement to the specific NHS Trust or care home.
3. Apply Directly and Strategically:
   • Use the career portals listed above.
   • Set up job alerts for keywords like “international nurse,” “visa sponsorship,” or “senior care worker.”
4. Ace the Virtual Interview:
   • Be prepared for competency-based questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult situation?”).
   • Research the Trust or care home provider thoroughly.
   • Have professional, reliable technology for the video call.
5. Understand the Visa Process:
   • Once you have a job offer, your employer will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
   • You will then apply for the Health and Care Worker visa, which provides IHS exemption.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Paying a Recruitment Fee: Reputable NHS Trusts and care providers do not charge candidates fees. The employer pays the recruitment agency.
• Applying Without Registration: Do not apply for nursing roles until you have at least started your NMC application. Your PIN is your license to work.
• Ignoring the “Senior” Title: For care roles, ensure the job is explicitly for a “Senior Care Worker” (SOC 6146) to be eligible for the visa.

Your 2025 Job Search Checklist

• Initiated my NMC/GMC registration process.
• Prepared a UK-formatted CV.
• Researched 3-5 target NHS Trusts or care providers from this list.
• Bookmarked their career websites.
• Set up job alerts for my specific profession.

The demand for your skills in the UK has never been higher. By targeting these leading employers and following a structured approach, you can secure a rewarding role with a supportive organisation in 2025.

Your future in the UK’s health and care sector starts now. Begin your application today!

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) and social care sector rely on talented professionals from around the world. The UK Health and Care Worker visa is the dedicated immigration pathway that makes this possible. Offering lower fees, faster processing, and valuable benefits, it’s the key for medical professionals seeking to build their career in the UK.

This ultimate 2025 guide provides everything nurses, doctors, and senior carers need to know—from eligibility and costs to the step-by-step application process.

Why Choose the UK Health and Care Worker Visa?

This visa is specifically designed for qualified medical professionals. Its advantages are significant:

• Reduced Fee Structure: You pay substantially less than the standard Skilled Worker visa.
• Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): This is the biggest financial benefit, saving you thousands of pounds.
• Dedicated Processing: Applications are typically processed within 3 weeks.
• Path to Settlement: It leads directly to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
• Bring Your Family: Your partner and children can apply to join you.

Eligibility: Who Can Apply in 2025?

You must meet several key criteria to be eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa.

1. You Must Be a Qualified Professional in an Eligible Occupation

The visa is not for all health roles. Your job must be on the UK’s eligible occupations list, which includes:

• Healthcare Professionals:
  • All registered nurses (NMC registered)
  • Doctors (GMC registered)
  • Paramedics (HCPC registered)
  • Pharmacists (GPhC registered)
  • Physiotherapists (HCPC registered)
• Senior Care Workers:
  • Senior care workers (SOC code 6146) are explicitly eligible.
• Other Allied Health Professionals:
  • Occupational therapists, radiographers, podiatrists, and many more.

Crucial Note: The standard “Care Worker” visa (SOC 6145) was removed from the eligibility list in March 2024. However, Senior Care Workers (SOC 6146) remain eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa. Always check the official UK Government website for the most current list.

2. You Must Have a Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

This is your most important document.

• What it is: An electronic certificate from a UK employer that holds a valid Sponsor Licence.
• How to get it: You must secure a job offer from an approved UK employer in the health and care sector (e.g., an NHS trust, a private hospital, or a regulated care home).
• The “Skilled Worker” Requirement: Your job offer must be at or above the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above). All eligible health and care roles meet this.

3. You Must Be Paid the Minimum Salary Threshold

You must be paid at least the “going rate” for your profession or the general salary threshold, whichever is higher.

• General Threshold: £23,200 per year (as of 2024, check for 2025 updates).
• Going Rate: This varies by profession. For example:
  • Nurses: £28,407 per year
  • Doctors in training: £23,189 to £43,923 (depending on the grade)
  • Senior Care Workers: £23,200 (must meet the general threshold)

4. You Must Meet the English Language Requirement

You can prove your knowledge of English by:

• Being a national of a majority-English speaking country.
• Passing a secure English language test (SELT) from an approved provider (e.g., IELTS for UKVI) at CEFR Level B1 (intermediate).
• Having a degree-level academic qualification that was taught in English and is recognised by UK NARIC.

5. You Must Have Sufficient Savings

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying, unless your sponsor (employer) can certify your maintenance on your CoS.

Click Here To Learn More: Internationally Educated Healthcare Workers: How To Get Licensed in Canada.

The Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Secure Your Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

This is the foundational step. Your UK employer will provide you with your CoS reference number, which you will need for the application.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

You will need:

• Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
• A valid passport or other travel document.
• Proof of your English language ability.
• Proof of your personal savings (if applicable).
• A current tuberculosis (TB) test result if you’re from a listed country.
• Your job title and annual salary.
• Your sponsor’s licence number (found on your CoS).

Step 3: Apply Online

You must apply online on the official GOV.UK website. You can apply from outside the UK or, in some cases, switch from within the UK.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

• Application Fee:
  • Up to 3 years: £284
  • More than 3 years: £551
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): You are exempt from this fee, which is a huge saving (the standard IHS is £1,035 per year).

Step 5: Prove Your Identity

You’ll usually need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application centre.

2025 Fees & Costs at a Glance

Fee Type	Standard Skilled Worker Visa	Health and Care Worker Visa
Application Fee (3 yrs)	£827	£284
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	£1,035/year	£0 (EXEMPT)
Total Cost for 3 Years	£3,932	£284

As you can see, the savings with the Health and Care Worker visa are substantial.

Bringing Your Family (Dependants)

Your partner and children can apply to join you as your ‘dependants’ if you can support them financially without needing public funds. They will need to apply online and will also be exempt from the IHS.

Visa Duration & Path to Permanent Residence

• The visa can be granted for up to 5 years.
• You can extend it as many times as you like, provided you still meet the eligibility criteria.
• After 5 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK on this visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is permanent settlement.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Your 2025 Application

1. Applying for the Wrong Job Code: Confusing a “Senior Care Worker” role (eligible) with a standard “Care Worker” role (not eligible for this visa).
2. Incorrect English Test: Ensure you take a UKVI-approved SELT, not a general English test.
3. Insufficient Maintenance Funds: If your employer is not certifying maintenance, you must show the funds for the full 28-day period.
4. Letting Your Registration Lapse: You must maintain your professional registration with the relevant UK body (e.g., NMC, GMC) throughout your employment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need to be registered with a UK professional body before I apply for the visa?
A: Yes. This is mandatory. You must have full or provisional registration with the NMC (nurses), GMC (doctors), or other relevant regulator before you can be granted the visa.

Q: Can I work for a different employer in the UK?
A: Your visa is tied to your sponsor. If you want to change jobs, your new employer must sponsor you, and you will need to apply to update your visa.

Q: Can I access public funds?
A: No. You cannot claim most public funds (state benefits) while on this visa.

Q: What is the processing time?
A: Typically, within 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK.

Your 2025 Action Plan

• Get Registered: Start the process with the UK professional body for your field (NMC, GMC, HCPC, etc.).
• Secure a Job Offer: Apply for roles with UK NHS Trusts or approved private providers.
• Obtain Your CoS: Your new employer will provide this.
• Take a UKVI SELT English Test (if required).
• Gather Your Documents, including proof of savings.
• Submit Your Online Application.

The UK Health and Care Worker visa is one of the most attractive immigration pathways for medical professionals globally. By understanding the requirements and preparing a thorough application, you can confidently embark on a rewarding career within the UK’s world-renowned health and care system.

Your skills are vital to the UK’s health. Start your application journey today!