What is it?

The UK Health and Care Visa is a specialized visa route under the Skilled Worker (Tier 2) category, designed to attract highly skilled health and care professionals to work in the UK. It aims to strengthen the UK healthcare system, including the NHS.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include professionals in the health and care sector, such as:

• Doctors / Medical Practitioners

• Dental Practitioners

• Nurses

• Biological Scientists & Biochemists

• Medical Radiographers

• Midwives

• Occupational Therapists

• Ophthalmic Opticians

• Physiotherapists

• Paramedics

• Podiatrists

• Pharmacists

• Psychologists & Physical Scientists

• Speech and Language Therapists

• Social Workers

• Health and Therapy Professionals

The applicant must have a confirmed job offer from a UK licensed sponsor.

Stay Duration

• Initial visa: Up to 3 years

• Extension: Up to 5 years and 14 days, or the time given on the Certificate of Sponsorship plus 1 month, whichever is shorter

Advantages

1. Lower Visa Fees: Reduced application fees compared to other skilled worker visas.

2. No Health Surcharge: Applicants do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.

3. Study Opportunities: Allowed as long as it does not affect sponsored employment.

4. Fast Processing: Typically processed within 3 weeks at the visa application centre.

5. Family Inclusion: Eligible to bring dependents (partner and children) to the UK.