The Health and Care Worker visa for doctors
The Health and Care Worker visa is a specialist Skilled Worker visa for doctors, nurses and eligible health professionals sponsored by the NHS or an approved health-care employer. It has reduced application fees, exempts holders from the Immigration Health Surcharge, and can be granted for up to five years. You need a Certificate of Sponsorship, GMC registration, and to meet the English and salary thresholds.
Who this applies to
- IMGs offered a substantive NHS post as a sponsored doctor.
Key requirements
| Sponsor | NHS trust or approved health-care employer |
|---|---|
| IHS | Exempt |
| Duration | Up to 5 years, renewable |
| Application fee (per person) | £324 up to 3 years; £628 over 3 years — same inside or outside the UK |
| Funds to hold | £1,270 for 28 days unless your sponsor certifies maintenance or you have been in the UK on a valid visa for 12 months |
| Salary threshold | Meets going rate for the SOC code (usually NHS pay scale) |
Steps
1. Receive the job offer and CoS
The trust assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship inside the sponsor management system.
2. Apply online on GOV.UK
Pay the reduced visa fee and provide the CoS reference number.
3. Biometrics
Attend a visa application centre for biometrics and document upload.
4. Travel and proof of status
Follow the decision letter: most applicants now get an eVisa (online immigration status) rather than a BRP card. Check GOV.UK for what applies to you.
Common failure points
- Applying with a CoS whose SOC code does not match the job title.
- Underestimating processing times — priority services help, but are extra cost.
Official sources
Every fact above should be confirmed against the controlling source before you act on it.