Beginning July 22, 2025, the United Kingdom has formally suspended new Health and Care Worker Visas for overseas care employees. If you are planning to relocate to the UK for care employment, this update marks a significant disruption.
This action is part of a broader initiative to reduce overall immigration numbers, particularly in lower-income job categories.
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What Changed?
Until recently, care worker positions (SOC Code 6145) were listed as shortage occupations—allowing for lower salary thresholds, reduced visa fees, and faster processing. These benefits are no longer available.
According to the UK Home Office, the policy change is aimed at prioritizing UK-based workers and addressing misuse of the visa system. However, critics argue that this suspension may worsen the country’s existing shortage in the social care sector.
Already in the UK on a Care Worker Visa?
If you currently hold a valid Health and Care Worker Visa, you are not affected by deportation. You can remain and continue working until your visa expires.
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You are still eligible to:
- Change employers (if the new job falls within your visa category)
- Extend your visa (under transition provisions)
- Keep dependents who were already approved on your current visa
However, new care workers cannot enter the UK through this visa pathway, and options may become limited once your visa expires.
What Happens When Your Visa Expires?
This is where complications arise. If your visa reaches its end and the new laws do not permit renewal or switching within the care sector, your ability to stay legally in the UK becomes uncertain.
Possible Alternatives:
- Switch to a different Skilled Worker Visa for another eligible profession
- Apply for a student visa to pursue further education or training
- Apply for residency, if you have completed five continuous years of skilled work in the UK
It is essential to speak with an immigration adviser at least six months before your visa’s expiration to avoid any lapse in legal status.
What Are the Alternatives for New Applicants?
If you’re outside the UK and intended to work in a care role, you may need to reconsider your route. The direct Care Worker Visa pathway is no longer an option, but alternatives still exist:
Nursing and Senior Healthcare Positions
Qualified nurses and senior healthcare workers can still apply under the Skilled Worker Visa as these roles remain on the shortage list.
Study and Qualify Within the UK
Many aspiring care workers are now opting for student visas, enrolling in UK-based nursing or health programs, and transitioning to employment visas later.
Explore Other In-Demand Occupations
The UK Shortage Occupation List still favors roles in engineering, IT, and construction, which may offer easier visa routes if you consider retraining.
Next Steps
- Consult a registered UK immigration advisor to understand your personal options
- Follow official announcements for policy changes
- Keep records of your employment history and qualifications for future applications
If you’re already in the UK, it’s important to act early. Speak with your employer, set up a consultation, and avoid delays. While the care worker route is now closed to new overseas applicants, opportunities still exist for those willing to pivot or retrain.
