A Guide to Obtaining UK Visa Sponsorship for Health & Social Care Sector Employers
Navigating the UK visa sponsorship process can be complex, particularly for the Health & Social Care sector. This guide aims to simplify the process, providing key information on visa types, rules, costs, and helpful resources. Social Care & Education Jobs is dedicated to keeping organisations informed with the latest updates in the Adult Social Care, Children's Social Care, and Specialist Education sectors.
Visa Types for Health & Social Care Sector
Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is the primary route for Health & Social Care professionals seeking to work in the UK. Key features include:
Eligibility: Must have a job offer from an approved UK employer holding a valid sponsorship licence.
Skill Level: Job must be at RQF Level 3 or above.
Salary Requirements: Minimum salary of £26,200 or the 'going rate' for the job, whichever is higher.
English Language: Must demonstrate English proficiency.
Duration: Up to 5 years, with the possibility to extend.
More about the Skilled Worker Visa
Health and Care Worker Visa
Specifically designed for qualified health professionals, this visa offers several benefits:
Eligibility: Job offers from an approved UK employer in the health or care sector.
Skill Level: Job must be at RQF Level 3 or above.
Salary Requirements: Minimum salary of £20,480 or the 'going rate' for the job, whichever is higher.
English Language: Must demonstrate English proficiency.
Duration: Up to 5 years, with the possibility to extend.
Fee Reduction: Reduced application fees and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.
More about the Health and Care Worker Visa
Temporary Work - Charity Worker Visa
For short-term, unpaid voluntary work, this visa is an option:
Eligibility: Must have a job offer from a UK charity with a valid sponsorship licence.
Duration: Up to 12 months.
English Language: No requirement.
More about the Temporary Work - Charity Worker Visa
Student Visa
For those aiming to study and work part-time in the Health & Social Care sector, the Student Visa is applicable:
Eligibility: Offer from a licensed student sponsor for a course.
Study Level: Must meet course requirements at an approved educational institution.
Work Rights: Up to 20 hours per week during term time, full-time during holidays.
English Language: Must demonstrate English proficiency.
More about the Student Visa
Costs of Obtaining a UK Visa
The cost of obtaining a UK visa varies depending on the type and duration:
Skilled Worker Visa: £610 - £1,408 (application fee), plus Immigration Health
Surcharge (£624 per year).
Health and Care Worker Visa: £232 - £464 (application fee), no Immigration Health Surcharge.
Temporary Work - Charity Worker Visa: £259 (application fee).
Student Visa: £348 (application fee), plus Immigration Health Surcharge (£470 per year).
Useful Resources
UK Government Visa Information: Gov.uk Visas and Immigration
UK Home Office: Home Office Visa Information
NHS Jobs: NHS Careers
Commitment to Keeping You Updated
At Social Care & Education Jobs, we are committed to providing the latest news, hints, tips, and guidelines throughout the Adult Social Care, Children's Social Care, and Specialist Education sectors. Stay connected with us to ensure you are always informed about the most recent developments in visa regulations and sector-specific updates.
For further guidance, feel free to contact us or visit our website. We are here to support you through every step of your visa application process and career journey in the UK.