In an unexpected shift in late 2023, the UK implemented a closure of the Health & Care Worker visa for new applicants in care worker roles and also prohibited dependents for those positions. Additionally, the minimum salary requirements and health surcharges have increased significantly, affecting numerous Indian applicants seeking to join the NHS. Here’s a summary to keep you informed.
🚫 What’s No Longer Available & Who Is Impacted
Restrictions for new care positions
The UK government has ceased new overseas recruitment for care worker and senior care worker roles, intending to limit lower-skilled migration in this field. Existing visa holders are permitted to renew their visas until 2028, but no new workers are allowed to enter from abroad.
Dependents not permitted for care workers
From December 2023 to March 2024, any new applications or switches to care worker visas must not include spouses or children. According to the Home Office, over 120,000 dependents accompanied 100,000 care workers in the last year—a figure they aim to reduce significantly. Consequently, applications fell by more than 80% in the months following the ban.
Increased salary and healthcare expenditures
Starting in early 2024, the minimum income threshold for Skilled Workers rose from £26,200 to £38,700, affecting care worker roles as well. The Immigration Health Surcharge will also increase to £1,035 annually beginning in February 2024.
Consequences for Indian Applicants
No pathways for new care recruits. Those considering positions as care assistants abroad should explore other job sectors or alternative countries.
Separation from family members. Even if your spouse and children fulfill other criteria, they will not qualify for visas under these specific care worker regulations.
Increased financial strain. The rise in income thresholds and health surcharges elevates costs, further limiting eligibility.
Advice for Indian Professionals 🚀
Look into alternative positions: Roles in nursing, allied health, or senior health professions (not affected by the care worker restrictions) may still be accessible under the Health & Care Worker visa, frequently allowing dependents with fewer restrictions.
Investigate the Skilled Worker stream: Search for healthcare-related employment on the Skilled Worker visa lists (such as nursing or physiotherapy) that do not fall under “care worker” classifications and still allow for dependents.
Organize your finances and paperwork: When applying through the Skilled Worker route, ensure your salary meets the £38,700 requirement and prepare for the substantial health surcharge. Collect strong job offers, credentials, and evidence of financial stability ahead of time.
Seek legal advice: Due to the intricate and changing regulations, a certified UK immigration advisor can assist in pinpointing eligible roles, obtaining sponsorship, and handling the dependents' application.
✅ Final Thoughts
The Health & Care Worker visa continues to be a viable option for Indian professionals, but only outside the entry-level care worker category. Positions such as nurses, physiotherapists, and allied health personnel remain eligible and may permit dependents, provided you satisfy the increased income and surcharge requirements. For those looking to join the NHS in any role, early planning, robust job offers, and legal counsel are essential.
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