Health and Care Worker visa
For qualified doctors, nurses, health professionals and adult social care workers with an NHS or eligible care sponsor.
The Health and Care Worker visa is a UK work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~£304-£590 application; IHS exempt (no surcharge)) and processing time (~3 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Health and Care Worker visa is for
For qualified doctors, nurses, health professionals and adult social care workers with an NHS or eligible care sponsor.
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous lawful residence.
Health and Care Worker visa - eligibility criteria
- Job offer in an eligible health or social care occupation
- Sponsorship from an approved health or care provider
- Salary meeting the route threshold
- Knowledge of English at level B1
- Relevant professional qualification or registration where required
Health and Care Worker visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Health and Care Worker visa (United Kingdom) is ~£304-£590 application; IHS exempt (no surcharge), with an indicative processing time of ~3 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside the UK |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years per grant (renewable) |
| Work rights | Work only for your licensed health or care sponsor |
| Study rights | Study allowed alongside work |
| Government fee | ~£304-£590 application; IHS exempt (no surcharge) |
| Processing time | ~3 weeks |
| Route to PR | Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous lawful residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous lawful residence.
Many applicants also compare Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker visa, ILR · Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement). Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Health and Care Worker visa pitfalls we fix
Health and Care Worker visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Health and Care Worker visa cost?
The Health and Care Worker visa government fee is ~£304-£590 application; IHS exempt (no surcharge). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at GOV.UK before applying.
How long does the Health and Care Worker visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Health and Care Worker visa lead to permanent residence?
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous lawful residence.
Can I work on the Health and Care Worker visa?
Work rights: Work only for your licensed health or care sponsor.
Who can apply for the Health and Care Worker visa?
For qualified doctors, nurses, health professionals and adult social care workers with an NHS or eligible care sponsor.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority