Overview
This visa is specifically for healthcare professionals recruited to work in the UK. You must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an employer that has been approved by the Home Office. The role must be on the list of eligible occupations and meet the minimum salary requirements set by the UK government.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must work for an approved NHS body, an organization providing medical services to the NHS, or an organization providing adult social care. You must be paid at least the minimum salary threshold for your specific occupation code. You must also meet the English language requirement and have enough personal savings to support yourself upon arrival.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1
Secure a job offer from an approved UK employer who can provide a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- 2
Step 2
Check that your job and salary meet the specific requirements for the Health and Care Worker route.
- 3
Step 3
Prepare your documents, including English language evidence and TB test results if applicable.
- 4
Step 4
Complete the online application form on the GOV.UK website.
- 5
Step 5
Pay the application fee and verify your identity (usually via the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app or at a visa application center).
- 6
Step 6
Wait for a decision; you will be notified via email or letter.
Required documents
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Valid passport or travel document
- Job title and annual salary
- TB test results (if from a listed country)
- Criminal record certificate (for certain health/social care roles)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
This visa counts towards the 5-year continuous residence requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
Family options
Your partner and children can apply as 'dependants' to join you in the UK. If their application is successful, they will usually be granted the same end date for their visa as yours.
Language notes
You can prove your knowledge of English by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider, or by having an academic degree taught in English that is recognized by Ecctis.
After arrival
Once you arrive, you must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) if you were issued one, and register with the police if your visa conditions require it.
Common pitfalls
- Applying without a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved sponsor.
- Failing to meet the specific salary threshold for the occupation code.
- Providing insufficient evidence of English language proficiency.
- Forgetting to include dependents in the initial application if they are traveling with you.
FAQs about Health and Care Worker visa
Who is the Health and Care Worker visa for?+
Qualified doctors, nurses, health professionals, and adult social care professionals who have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK employer.
What are the eligibility requirements for Health and Care Worker visa?+
To qualify, you must work for an approved NHS body, an organization providing medical services to the NHS, or an organization providing adult social care. You must be paid at least the minimum salary threshold for your specific occupation code. You must also meet the English language requirement and have enough personal savings to support yourself upon arrival.
How much does the Health and Care Worker visa cost?+
Typical fees listed for Health and Care Worker visa: Application fee: £284 (for up to 3 years) or £551 (for more than 3 years). Healthcare Surcharge: Exempt.. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Health and Care Worker visa processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK; 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK..
How long can I stay on the Health and Care Worker visa?+
Up to 5 years, extendable, and leads to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
Can I work on the Health and Care Worker visa?+
You can work in your sponsored job, take on additional work in the same profession/code, or take on voluntary work. Partners and children can accompany you and have full work rights.
Does Health and Care Worker visa lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom?+
This visa counts towards the 5-year continuous residence requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
What are common mistakes with Health and Care Worker visa?+
Applying without a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved sponsor. Failing to meet the specific salary threshold for the occupation code. Providing insufficient evidence of English language proficiency.