The UK Health and Care Worker Visa is an excellent opportunity for international students with healthcare qualifications to work in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), adult social care sector, or private healthcare. This visa allows professionals to live and work in the UK while contributing to the country’s healthcare system.
If you’re an international student looking to transition from studying in the UK to working in healthcare, this blog will guide you through the application process for the UK Health and Care Worker Visa.
What Is the UK Health and Care Worker Visa?
The Health and Care Worker Visa is designed for healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other qualified medical practitioners, who have a job offer from an approved UK employer in the healthcare sector. The visa allows you to work with the NHS, an NHS supplier, or an organization that provides adult social care services.
This visa has several advantages:
- Reduced visa fees compared to other work visas.
- Fast-tracked visa processing.
- Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Who Is Eligible for the Health and Care Worker Visa?
To be eligible, you need:
- A valid job offer from an approved UK employer, such as the NHS, an organization providing medical services to the NHS, or a care home.
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer detailing your role and confirming that you meet the job requirements.
- Proof that you will be paid an appropriate salary (usually at least £26,200 per year, though this may vary based on your role and experience).
Additionally, you must be proficient in English and meet the UK’s financial requirements for visa applicants.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Health and Care Worker Visa
1. Secure a Job Offer
The first step is securing a healthcare job in the UK. You can apply for roles in the NHS, private healthcare, or adult social care organizations. Popular job boards include:
- NHS Jobs (www.jobs.nhs.uk)
- Health Careers UK (www.healthcareers.nhs.uk)
- Private Healthcare Providers’ job portals
When applying for jobs, ensure the employer is on the UK government’s list of approved sponsors, which allows them to issue Certificates of Sponsorship.
2. Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once you have a job offer, your employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is a document that contains a unique reference number and details about your job, such as your role, salary, and duration of the contract.
3. Meet the Financial Requirements
To apply for the visa, you must prove that you can support yourself financially while living in the UK. You need to show that you have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 days in a row before you apply, unless you’re exempt (for example, if your employer covers your living costs during your first month).
4. Meet the English Language Requirements
You must prove your English proficiency, either through:
- A degree taught in English (recognized by UK NARIC)
- An IELTS test score of at least B1 level in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Some countries are exempt from this requirement, so check if you qualify for an exemption based on your nationality.
5. Prepare Your Application
When you are ready to apply for the visa, gather all required documents:
- Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Proof of your job offer and salary
- Proof of your English language proficiency
- Proof of maintenance funds (bank statement showing £1,270)
- A valid passport or travel ID
- Tuberculosis test results (if required by your home country)
You can apply online through the UK government’s visa application portal. Be sure to pay the visa fee, which ranges from £247 to £479, depending on the length of your stay.
6. Apply for the Health and Care Worker Visa
You can apply for the visa online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. After submitting your application, you will be required to provide biometric information at a visa application center or use the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app, depending on your situation.
Visa processing usually takes about 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK. However, the Health and Care Worker Visa is fast-tracked, so your application could be processed even quicker.
Additional Tips for International Students
Utilize Your Graduate Visa
If you’re an international student on a UK Graduate Visa, you may be eligible to switch to the Health and Care Worker Visa after finding a job. The Graduate Visa allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 years for doctoral students), giving you time to secure a full-time healthcare job.
Work While You Study
International students pursuing healthcare degrees in the UK can work part-time in the healthcare sector. This will not only help you build experience but can also increase your chances of getting hired by an approved sponsor after graduation.
Look for Healthcare Internships
Many NHS trusts and private healthcare organizations offer internships, placements, or work experience opportunities. These are invaluable for gaining relevant experience and building connections within the UK healthcare system.
What Happens After You Get the Visa?
Once your Health and Care Worker Visa is approved, you can:
- Live and work in the UK for up to 5 years, with the option to extend the visa.
- Bring your partner and children to the UK as dependents.
- Apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) after 5 years of working in the UK, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion
The UK Health and Care Worker Visa provides a valuable opportunity for international students with healthcare qualifications to build a career in the UK. By following the steps outlined in this guide—securing a job, obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship, and applying through the UKVI—you can transition from studying in the UK to working as a healthcare professional, all while contributing to the UK’s vital healthcare system.
Good luck with your application and your exciting journey toward a fulfilling healthcare career in the UK!