Health & Care Worker Visa 2026
For doctors, nurses, and health professionals working in the NHS or adult social care. Healthcare surcharge is exempt.
Application fee
£247
NHS surcharge
Exempt
Processing time
2–4 weeks
Who is eligible?
- Job offer from the NHS, an NHS-funded employer, or a CQC-regulated employer in adult social care
- The role must be on the eligible occupation list — includes doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, care workers
- Salary of at least £29,000 per year
- Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer
- English language at B1 level (CEFR)
How to apply — step by step
- 1Secure a job offer from an NHS trust, GP practice, or CQC-regulated social care employer
- 2Confirm your role is on the eligible occupation list at gov.uk
- 3Your employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)
- 4Apply online at gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa — the fee is just £247 (significantly lower than the Skilled Worker visa)
- 5You are exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge — a saving of £1,035 per year
- 6Processing is typically 2–4 weeks; priority service available
Common reasons for refusal
- ✗Employer is not on the approved sponsor register or is not CQC-regulated
- ✗Role does not appear on the eligible occupation code list
- ✗Salary does not meet the £29,000 minimum for the specific role
Key requirements at a glance
- Job offer in eligible health or social care role
- CQC-regulated employer
- Salary £29,000+
- English language
Frequently asked questions
Is the NHS Health Surcharge waived for Health and Care Worker visa holders?▾
Yes. Health and Care Worker visa holders and their dependants are fully exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge. This saves £1,035 per person per year compared to other work visas.
Which roles qualify for the Health and Care Worker visa?▾
Eligible roles include registered nurses, doctors, allied health professionals (physiotherapists, occupational therapists, radiographers), paramedics, care workers, and home carers — provided the employer is NHS or CQC-regulated. Check the full occupation code list on gov.uk.
Can family members come with me on a Health and Care Worker visa?▾
Yes, your spouse/partner and children under 18 can apply as dependants. They are also exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge, making this one of the most cost-effective routes for families.
What is the visa fee for the Health and Care Worker visa?▾
The application fee is £247 — significantly lower than the £719–£1,500 for a standard Skilled Worker visa. There is no Immigration Health Surcharge for this visa.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa later?▾
Yes. After switching employers or changing roles, you can apply for a standard Skilled Worker visa if your new role and salary meet the criteria. Your time on the Health and Care Worker visa counts towards the 5 years needed for ILR.
Next steps
Official application
Apply for the Health & Care Worker Visa on GOV.UK
All visa applications are processed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) via the official gov.uk website.
Apply on GOV.UK