Many Nepalis work in the NHS and UK care sector - this visa route has specific benefits, but rules around care workers and dependants have changed significantly.
The Health and Care Worker visa is a route within the Skilled Worker system designed specifically for people working in eligible health and social care roles. Many Nepalis in the UK work in the NHS and the care sector, and this visa has historically offered advantages over the standard Skilled Worker visa - including lower application fees and an exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge. However, the rules around this route - particularly for care workers and their dependants - have changed significantly in recent years and may change again. Always check the current official guidance before you apply or advise others.
The Health and Care Worker visa is available to people who have a job offer in an eligible role with a Home Office licensed sponsor. Eligible roles include doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and certain adult social care roles. Not every job in a hospital or care home qualifies - the role must appear on the eligible occupations list, and the employer must hold a valid sponsor licence. Confirm both on GOV.UK before assuming you qualify: gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa.
Before you can apply, your employer must issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is a reference number, not a physical certificate, which your employer generates through the Home Office sponsorship management system. Without a valid CoS from a licensed sponsor, you cannot apply for this visa. Your employer is responsible for ensuring they hold a valid Health and Care Worker sponsor licence - check the Home Office register of licensed sponsors if you have any doubt.
You must be paid at least the minimum salary threshold for your occupation code, or the “going rate” for that role, whichever is higher. These figures are set by the Home Office and are updated periodically - as a guide, check the current salary requirements for your specific occupation code at gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa rather than relying on figures in community groups or older articles.
The rules around care workers bringing dependants to the UK have changed considerably. From early 2024, care workers (those in social care roles rather than clinical NHS roles) were largely prevented from bringing dependants on this route. These restrictions have been controversial and have affected many Nepali families. The rules in this area have been subject to further review and may change again - check the very latest position at gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa before you make any decisions about your family’s plans. If you are already in the UK and your dependant’s situation is uncertain, seek advice from an OISC-regulated immigration adviser or solicitor.
Unfortunately, fraudulent operators advertise “sponsorship for sale” - promising a Certificate of Sponsorship or a care job in exchange for large upfront payments. This is illegal. Genuine employers do not charge workers for sponsorship. If someone asks you to pay for a CoS, a job placement, or a visa arrangement, it is almost certainly a scam. You could lose your money, be prevented from working in the UK, and face immigration consequences. Report suspected fraud to gov.uk/report-immigration-crime.
This is one of the most actively changing immigration routes in the UK. If you are planning to apply, switch to this route, or bring family members, confirm every detail on the official page: gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa. For complex cases, consult an OISC-regulated immigration adviser.