Everything You Need to Know About the Care Worker Visa UK

What is the Care Worker Visa UK?
The Care Worker Visa, also known as the Health and Care Worker Visa, allows foreign nationals to work in the UK as care assistants, support workers, or healthcare professionals in the adult social care sector. This visa is part of the Skilled Worker route and addresses critical staff shortages in the UK’s healthcare system.

Pathway to Settlement: Time on this visa counts toward the 5-year residency requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Reduced Visa Fees: Discounted visa application fees and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Family Inclusion: You can bring dependents, including your spouse/partner and children.
Work Flexibility: Freedom to work in eligible care roles and take additional jobs.

Have a Valid Job Offer: From a UK-licensed sponsor for an eligible care role.
Meet Skill and Salary Requirements:
- Role must be at RQF Level 3 or above.
- Minimum salary threshold of £20,960 per year or £10.75 per hour.
Proficiency in English: Prove English language skills through an approved test or academic qualification.
Hold a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by your UK employer.

The following roles are eligible under the Health and Care Worker Visa:

Care Workers: Including domiciliary and residential care staff.
Senior Care Assistants: Supervising care delivery and staff in residential settings.
Support Workers in Health and Social Care: Providing essential assistance to individuals with physical or mental disabilities.

Valid Passport: With at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Provided by your UK employer.
Proof of English Proficiency: Test results or degree certificate.
Criminal Record Certificate: From every country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years (if required).
TB Test Results: If applicable based on your country of residence.
Proof of Qualifications: For senior or specialized roles.

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Secure employment with a UK sponsor licensed to offer Skilled Worker sponsorship.

Your employer must issue a CoS, detailing the job role, salary, and duration of employment.

Visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal and select the Skilled Worker Visa route.
Fill in your details and upload required documents.

Application Fee: £247 (up to 3 years) or £479 (more than 3 years).
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Exempt for Health and Care Worker Visa applicants.

Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

Processing typically takes 3 weeks for applications outside the UK and 8 weeks for those within the UK.

Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After living and working in the UK for 5 continuous years on a Care Worker Visa, you may apply for ILR, provided you meet residency, salary, and English language requirements.

Challenge: Finding a UK employer licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker visas.
Solution: Search for jobs through the UK government’s list of licensed sponsors and recruitment agencies specializing in care roles.

Challenge: Proving proficiency if not from an English-speaking country.
Solution: Take an approved test like IELTS or provide proof of an English-taught degree.

Challenge: Delays in obtaining criminal records or TB test results.
Solution: Begin gathering these documents well before starting your application.

Can I bring dependents on a Care Worker Visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse/partner and children under 18.
Can I switch to a Care Worker Visa from another visa type?
Yes, switching is allowed if you meet the eligibility requirements and are already in the UK.
How long does the Care Worker Visa last?
The visa is valid for up to 5 years and can be extended.
Can I work a second job on a Care Worker Visa?
Yes, you can take a second job in an eligible role under specific conditions.
Is the Care Worker Visa a pathway to citizenship?
Yes, after holding ILR for 12 months, you may apply for British citizenship.
Are there age limits for the Care Worker Visa?
No, there are no specific age restrictions.

Conclusion
The Care Worker Visa provides a streamlined route for non-UK nationals to contribute to the UK’s health and social care sectors. By understanding the requirements, securing a job offer, and preparing a strong application, you can successfully obtain this visa and enjoy the benefits of working in the UK.