Why This Route Is Different
The Health and Care Worker visa is a subcategory of the Skilled Worker visa, but with significant advantages:
- Reduced application fee (£284 vs £719–£1,500 for standard Skilled Worker)
- No Immigration Health Surcharge (saves £1,035 per year per applicant)
- Faster processing — typically 3 weeks
- Settlement eligibility after 5 years
- Family members can join and work
Eligibility Requirements
You must:
- Have a job offer from an approved UK employer (NHS, NHS supplier, or adult social care provider)
- Be sponsored with a valid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Be paid a minimum salary of £29,000 (or the "going rate" for your role, whichever is higher)
- Meet English language requirements (usually NMC registration)
- Have a valid TB test certificate if applying from certain countries
For Nurses Specifically
You must hold current NMC registration (or be eligible to apply) and have an offer for a role on the Health and Care Worker eligible occupation list. Common roles include:
- Adult nurse (SOC 2231)
- Mental health nurse (SOC 2232)
- Children's nurse (SOC 2233)
- Midwife (SOC 2234)
The Practical Reality
NHS trusts are actively recruiting internationally, particularly from the Philippines, India, Nigeria, and the UAE. The recruitment process typically takes 3–6 months from application to arrival. Language testing (IELTS or OET) is often the longest single step.
How We Help
We review your NMC registration status, verify the trust's sponsor licence, prepare your application to Home Office standards, and coordinate with your NHS trust's international recruitment team.