Navigating Health and Care Visa Reforms: What Employers Need to Know

Published :
May 28, 2024
Industry Insights

The landscape of healthcare employment in the UK is set for significant changes with recent reforms to the Health and Care Visa and skilled worker sponsorship.  

These changes aim to reduce net migration by 300,000 individuals a year. For healthcare employers, understanding and adapting to these changes is crucial to ensure compliance and effective recruitment strategies.

What's Changing?

Skilled Worker Sponsorship

  • Minimum Salary Increase: Currently set at £26,200 or the 'going rate' for the role, the minimum salary for skilled worker sponsorship will rise to £38,700 in spring 2024.
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Skilled workers will face an increased IHS of £1,035 per year as part of their visa application.
  • Dependants: Skilled workers can still bring their dependants to the UK.

Health and Care Worker Visa

  • Exemption from Salary Threshold: Health and care roles, including nurses and doctors, are exempt from the increased £38,700 salary threshold.
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Health and care workers remain exempt from the IHS.
  • Sponsorship: Only CQC Registered providers in England can sponsor health and care visa applicants.
  • Dependants: Care workers and senior care workers will no longer be able to bring dependants to the UK as part of their visa application, except for those already in the route before the rule change.

Next Steps for Employers

Impact on Healthcare Sector

  • Reviewing Business Planning: Employers should consider future business plans and potential sponsorships before the changes take effect.
  • Eligibility Review: Employers are advised to review the roles they currently sponsor or intend to sponsor to ensure they meet the new salary requirements.

How to Keep up to Date

Timeline and Details

  • Effective Dates: Changes are set to roll out in spring 2024.
  • Salary Thresholds: Different limits apply to various visa types.
  • Dependant Restrictions: Changes to dependant rules will impact care workers and senior care workers.

These reforms signify a significant shift in the healthcare employment landscape. Employers in the healthcare sector must stay informed and proactive to navigate these changes effectively. By reviewing current roles, understanding new requirements, and planning ahead, healthcare providers can ensure compliance and successful recruitment strategies in the evolving visa landscape.

Sources:

https://www.nhsemployers.org/articles/impacts-changes-uk-immigration-policy