The Health and Care Visa is a relatively new visa category which is specifically created for overseas medical professionals who intend to come and work for the NHS, an NHS supplier or in the adult social care sector. This visa category can lead to settlement after 5 years of residence in the UK and applicant can apply for their dependents (partners and children). The Health and Care Visa is only open to qualified doctors, nurses and allied health professionals who will be working in eligible roles in the UK health sector. The Home Office has given some concession to applicants as they pay a reduced visa fees and are also not required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The Health and Care Visa is valid for up to 5 years, after this time you can apply to extend it should you wish to continue working in the UK. Providing that you continue to meet the eligibility requirements then you can extend your Health and Care visa as many times as you like. If you want to make the UK your permanent home then you may also be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after residing in the country for at least 5 years. In order to qualify for the Health and care visa, you will need to satisfy the following requirements: You are aged 18 or over;
You are a qualified doctor, nurse, health professional or adult social care professional;
You work or will work in an eligible health or social care job, which falls within the list of approved occupation codes;
You work or will work for a UK health and care sector employer that has been approved by the Home Office;
You have a valid 'certificate of sponsorship' from your employer with information about the role you have been offered;
You are competent in the English language to at least CEFR Level B1 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0);
You will be paid the minimum salary or the 'going rate' for the type of work you will be doing, whichever is higher;
You have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds;
You have provided a criminal record certificate; and
You have provided a valid TB certificate (if from a listed country).