UK Introduces Key Updates to Health and Care Visa for the 2025-26 Cycle

Are you a nurse, doctor, social worker, or allied health professional eager to work in the UK? The UK Health and Care Visa offers a fast-track solution to achieve your goal. With substantial benefits for new applicants in 2025–2026, this guide outlines what you need to know, who qualifies, and how to apply directly.

Benefits for New Applicants

As a new applicant for the UK Health and Care Visa, you can enjoy several advantages:

• Fast-Track Processing: Your application will be prioritized, with most decisions made within three weeks, unlike the typical eight to twenty weeks for other visas.
• Reduced Visa Fees: You and your eligible dependents will pay lower fees than standard Skilled Worker applicants. This reduction is automatically applied when your employer confirms your eligibility through the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
• No Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): You will not pay the IHS, which can cost up to £1,035 per person per year. This exemption also applies to your partner and children.
• Family Inclusion: You can bring your partner and children, except if applying under SOC codes 6135 (Care Workers and Home Carers) or 6136 (Senior Care Workers) for visas issued after March 11, 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Health and Care Visa, you must:

• Be applying for a Skilled Worker visa.
• Hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Home Office-approved UK employer.
• Be offered a job in one of the eligible healthcare or social care roles listed under Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes.

Updated Application Process

Follow these updated steps for a smooth Health and Care Visa application:

• Secure a Job Offer: Get hired by a UK employer that is Home Office-approved and involved in health or social care, such as the NHS or local authorities.
• Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer will issue a CoS that must confirm your Health and Care Visa eligibility, include your job title and SOC code, and mention contract details and work location.
• Prepare Your Documents: You’ll need to gather:
  • • Your passport
    • CoS number
    • Proof of English proficiency
    • Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required)
    • Proof of funds (if not exempt)
    • A letter from your employer if dependants are applying separately
• Apply Online: Visit the official website, fill out the Skilled Worker visa form, and check the Health and Care Visa box to activate your benefits.
• Attend Biometrics Appointment: Go to your visa center to submit your biometrics and supporting documents.
• Wait for a Decision: Most applications are processed within three weeks after your biometrics appointment.

Conclusion

The updates to the UK Health and Care Visa make it an attractive option for healthcare professionals. With expedited processing, reduced fees, and family inclusion, this visa offers a promising opportunity. By following the outlined steps and ensuring your eligibility, you can embark on your journey to work in the UK and contribute to its healthcare system.