Social Care Workers now qualify for Skilled Worker Visas
Social care workers are now recognised under the Skilled Worker Shortage Occupation List as of 16th February 2022 following changes to the Immigration Rules. They will also become eligible to apply for the Health and Care Worker visa sub-category of the route.
These changes have been brought in temporarily to help lift the pressure on the NHS and the social care system which is currently under a considerable burden as a result of the COVID19 pandemic.
When can I apply?
This visa is currently open for a 12-month window between the 15th of February 2022 and the 14th of February 2023. After this point, the policy will be subject to review.
How will I qualify?
Applicants will need to meet certain requirements to qualify under this route. This includes having a job offer from a licensed sponsor under standard occupational classification code 6145 Care workers and home carers – private households or individuals (other than sole traders sponsoring someone to work for their business) cannot sponsor Skilled Worker applicants. This code also includes other eligible roles such as:
- Care assistant
- Care worker
- Resident warden
- Carer
- Home care assistant
- Home carer
Support worker (nursing home)
The applicant must be paid the right salary which is either £20,480 per year or £10.10 per hour, whichever is higher.
Applicants will also need to include a criminal record certificate from all the countries they have lived in for 12 months or more. Sponsoring employers must also be approved by the Home Office, and they must have provided you with a certificate of sponsorship. Applicants also usually need to prove knowledge of English when they apply.
Applicants must be able to maintain themselves. This requires proof of funds of at least £1,270 to be held in their account consecutively for at least 28 days. Alternatively, Applicants must have confirmation from their Sponsor that they will cover their costs during their first month. This needs to be confirmed on the certificate of sponsorship (COS).
Applicants should note that Appendix Skilled Occupations to the Immigration Rules still lists social care workers as not eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa. This is based on a technical legal definition of “Skilled Worker”, and Applicants are reassured that this legality will not affect their ability to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa in practice according to current Home Office guidance.
How long can I stay?
Skilled Worker Visas are granted for up to 5 years and can be extended.
How do I apply?
Applicants can apply online. Applicants can also, depending on their individual circumstances, apply from inside the UK and switch into this visa. Please contact us if you would like more advice on this option.
How much does it cost?
This will depend on how long your visa will be for. Applicants will have to pay the application fee, as well as the Immigration Health Surcharge for each year of their stay.
How long will this take?
Applicants applying from outside the UK will normally receive a decision within 3 weeks and those inside the UK will normally receive a decision within 8 weeks. However, please bear in mind that COVID19 is causing significant delays at the Home Office, and this response time may be longer in practice.
For further information, please do not hesitate to contact one of our specialists for a consultation.