The UK Government plans to expand the UK Health and Care Visa to include additional care workers. The announcement brings good news for overseas care workers wanting to work in the UK for up to twelve months.
The Government first made the announcement in December 2021. Breytenbachs hope to receive a confirmation and final details on this soon and will keep clients updated.
The Health and Care Worker Visa expansion to include more categories of care workers will bring relief to the Care Worker industry. The Health and Care Worker Industry reportedly faces staff shortages and pressures due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Care Workers on the Shortage Occupation List
The UK Government will bring all roles in the Shortage Occupation Code (SOC) 6145 into the Health and Care Visa expansion scope. The new roles that will be reportedly be included in the Health and Care Visa will be Care Assistant, Care Worker, Carer, Home Care Assistant, Home Carer and Support Worker (Nursing Home).
The reasoning behind the UK Health and Care Worker Visa expansion is to boost the adult social care workforce. Care workers will be eligible to come and work in the UK in these roles for up to twelve months.
The inclusion of the Care Workers on the Shortage Occupation List will likely stipulate a minimum annual salary of £20,480 for carers to qualify. If they meet this minimum salary, they should be eligible for the UK Health and Care Worker Visa.
Dependents will be able to apply to accompany the main applicant, and it seems like fast-track processing will be available.
Review of the UK Health and Care Worker Visa Expansion
The UK Government will make announcements on the expansion soon. The expansion will be in place for a minimum of twelve months. The UK Government will review the visa route thereafter.
Recommendation to UK Care Providers
Breytenbachs recommend that UK Care Providers who do not have a Sponsorship Licence in the Skilled Worker route contact us. They can prepare in advance for this expansion by registering for a sponsorship license ahead of the implementation.
Unfortunately, care agencies who contract out carers to third parties and do not employ them to work directly will in all probability not qualify. We recommend that you speak to one of our consultants to clarify your situation.
Breytenbachs have a dedicated team of consultants dealing with Sponsorship Licences and the Health and Care Worker Visa. Contact us today to find out more or to arrange a consultation.
