Healthcare professionals seeking career opportunities in the UK can apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa under the Points-Based Immigration System. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to five years. To qualify, you must have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK employer for a role listed among the eligible occupations.
Eligibility Criteria for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- Job Offer from an Approved Employer
- You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is an approved sponsor.
- The employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) detailing your role and employment terms.
- Eligible Occupation
- Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations, categorized under Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes.
- Salary Threshold
- Your salary must meet one of these requirements:
- At least £25,600 per year (general salary threshold).
- The specific “going rate” for your occupation, if higher than £25,600.
- Your salary must meet one of these requirements:
- Financial Requirements
- You must have sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents without public assistance.
- You should maintain at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying.
- If your sponsor confirms they will cover your expenses, this requirement may be waived.
Additional Requirements for Healthcare Professionals
If you are applying as a healthcare professional, additional criteria include:
- Qualification as a healthcare worker (doctor, nurse, health professional, or adult social care worker).
- Employment within the NHS, an NHS supplier, or the adult social care sector.
- Valid registration with the relevant UK regulatory body, such as:
- General Medical Council (GMC)
- Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
- Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Application Process for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
To apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, follow these steps:
1. Submit an Online Application
- Fill out the visa application form online.
- Provide personal details and respond to eligibility-related questions.
2. Verify Your Identity & Submit Documents
- Confirm your identity using the UK Immigration: ID Check app or by visiting a visa application center.
- Submit required documents, including:
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Bank statements for financial proof
3. Pay the Required Fees
- Visa fees:
- £610 for a visa valid up to three years.
- £1,220 for a visa valid up to five years.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year, which grants access to NHS healthcare services.
- Payments can be made online during the application process.
4. Await the Decision
- Visa decisions are typically processed within three weeks.
- If approved, you will receive a digital visa status that can be viewed online—there is no physical visa or passport stamp.
Preparing for Your Application
To ensure a smooth visa application process, follow these key steps:
- Check visa processing times and apply well in advance of your travel date.
- Gather all necessary documents and verify their validity.
- Ensure correct fee payment and keep receipts as proof.
- Follow identity verification and document submission guidelines carefully.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and wish to build a rewarding career in the UK healthcare sector, start your Skilled Worker Visa application today!
