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The Health and Care Worker visa is a UK immigration route designed for medical professionals, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, who are offered a job in the National Health Service (NHS), social care sector, or adult social care by a UK sponsor. This visa aims to streamline the process for healthcare professionals to work in the UK, acknowledging the critical role they play in the healthcare system. Applicants must have a job offer from an approved employer, meet the English language requirement, and have the appropriate salary offer.
Healthcare
The Health and Care Worker visa is a UK immigration route designed for medical professionals, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, who are offered a job in the National Health Service (NHS), social care sector, or adult social care by a UK sponsor. This visa aims to streamline the process for healthcare professionals to work in the UK, acknowledging the critical role they play in the healthcare system. Applicants must have a job offer from an approved employer, meet the English language requirement, and have the appropriate salary offer.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for the Health and Care Worker visa, including detailed requirements, step-by-step application process, required documents, costs, timeline, and expert tips for a successful application.
Varies by application type
Immigration Health Charge
Paid by employer
Per year (minimum)
Applicants need to provide a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK employer, proof of meeting the English language requirement (like a test result or a degree taught in English), evidence of sufficient maintenance funds (unless exempt), a valid passport or other travel identification, and a criminal record certificate. Additional documents may include proof of qualifications relevant to the job role.
FeaturedApplicants must provide a valid passport, Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved UK employer, proof of English language proficiency, evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements or a letter from the employer), and a criminal record certificate. Additional documents like educational certificates and professional registration may be required based on the occupation.
FeaturedYou can prove English language proficiency by passing an approved English language test at CEFR level B1 or higher. Alternatively, you can submit evidence of a degree taught in English or be a national from a majority English-speaking country. Accepted tests include IELTS for UKVI, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI, and others specified by the UK government.
FeaturedYou can prove your English proficiency by passing an approved English language test at the required level or by having an academic qualification that was taught in English and is recognised by UK NARIC as being equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or PhD.
FeaturedThe visa application fee is reduced compared to other work visas, with costs typically around £232 for up to 3 years and £464 for more than 3 years. Applicants are also exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge, which significantly reduces overall costs. However, costs may vary based on your circumstances.
FeaturedThe standard processing time for a Health and Care Worker visa is usually around 3 weeks if you are outside the UK, and 8 weeks if you are applying from within the UK. However, this can vary, so it's advisable to apply as early as possible.
FeaturedExpansion of eligible roles to include more health and social care positions due to ongoing workforce shortages.
8/16/2025