How to get a UK Skilled Worker or Health and Care Visa

The allure of working in the United Kingdom often comes with its fair share of paperwork and procedures, especially when it comes to securing the right visa. For professionals seeking opportunities in the UK, understanding the nuances between different visa options is essential. Among the myriad choices, the Skilled Worker Visa and the Health and Care Visa emerge as prominent routes for international workers. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of each visa category to empower your decision-making process.

Skilled Worker Visa: A Gateway to Diverse Professions

The Skilled Worker Visa opens doors to a wide array of professions, making it one of the most sought-after routes for skilled individuals. To be eligible, you must fulfill the following criteria:

1. Job Offer: A valid job offer from a licensed UK employer is the cornerstone of your application. This offer must align with the list of eligible occupations and meet the minimum salary requirement of £26,200 per year. If your job is on the shortage occupation list, you can be paid 80% of the job’s usual going rate to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa.
2. Licensed Sponsor: Your employer should be listed on the Home Office’s approved licensed sponsors. Ensuring your employer holds an A-rating is crucial, as B-rated sponsors may face delays in issuing Certificates of Sponsorship.
3. Certificate of Sponsorship: Your UK employer must provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a digital document outlining essential details about your employment, including salary, job role, and sponsor license number.
4. Skill Level and English Proficiency: Your skills should be at least equivalent to RQF level 3. Proficiency in English can be demonstrated through approved tests or academic qualifications taught in English.
5. Financial Sufficiency: A minimum of £1,270 in your bank account for the first month in the UK is necessary to prove your financial stability.

You can check if you may be eligible for a skilled worker visa by answering a few questions on the GOV.UK Website.

Health and Care Visa: Tailored for Healthcare Heroes

The Health and Care Visa is meticulously designed for healthcare professionals, recognizing their invaluable contribution to society. Eligibility criteria include:

1. Specific Occupations: Health and Care Visa is applicable to a range of healthcare roles, including doctors, nurses, social workers, and paramedics. Job roles must correspond to specific Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes which you can find here.
2. Licensed Sponsor: Your job offer must come from an NHS body, a medical service provider to the NHS, an adult social care provider, or an organization listed in the official guidance.
3. Salary Requirements: The salary threshold is typically £26,200 per year, but exceptions exist for applicants falling under specific categories, allowing between 70% – 90% of the going rate for their position.
4. Language Proficiency: Similar to the Skilled Worker Visa, language proficiency must be demonstrated through approved tests, academic qualifications, or professional body assessments.

Making the Right Choice: Considering Your Career Path

Choosing between the Skilled Worker and Health and Care Visa depends on your profession and employer. The Skilled Worker Visa offers a broader scope, allowing professionals from various industries to explore opportunities in the UK. On the other hand, the Health and Care Visa caters specifically to healthcare professionals, offering expedited processing, reduced fees, and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.

As you embark on this important journey, thorough understanding and adherence to the visa requirements are paramount. Consulting with your prospective employer and staying updated with the latest immigration guidelines will pave the way for a successful UK work visa application. By choosing the right visa pathway, you can step confidently into a promising career in the United Kingdom.

Disclaimer: We are not immigration consultants, legal advisors or solicitors. This article is shared for informational purposes only. If you find anything wrong, leave a comment or contact us at info@sponsoredworkers.co.uk

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