If you are a healthcare professional in Pakistan seeking to work in the UK, the UK Health and Care Visa provides a fantastic opportunity to live and work in the country. The Health and Care Visa is specifically designed for individuals who work in eligible health and social care roles, offering them a fast-track route to a UK visa. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of applying for the UK Health and Care Visa from Pakistan, covering all eligibility criteria, necessary documents, and application steps.

What is the UK Health and Care Visa?

The UK Health and Care Visa is a specialized visa for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, medical practitioners, and social workers, who want to work in the UK’s health and social care sector. This visa was introduced as part of the UK’s efforts to address workforce shortages in these vital industries.

The visa allows healthcare professionals to come to the UK to fill essential roles in the NHS, social care organizations, or private sector health services. The Health and Care Visa offers several benefits, including lower application fees, reduced immigration health surcharge costs, and faster processing times.

Eligibility Requirements for the UK Health and Care Visa

Before applying for the Health and Care Visa, make sure you meet the following key eligibility criteria:

1. Job Offer in an Eligible Health or Care Role

To apply for the Health and Care Visa, you must have a confirmed job offer in an eligible occupation within the health and social care sectors. Some of the roles that qualify for this visa include:

• Doctors
• Nurses
• Paramedics
• Dentists
• Physiotherapists
• Social workers
• Medical practitioners
• Health care assistants
• Clinical psychologists

The job offer must come from a UK employer that is approved by the Home Office and holds a sponsor license. You can check whether your employer is registered as a sponsor on the UK Government’s official website.

2. Job Meets the Salary Requirement

The job you have been offered must meet a certain minimum salary threshold, which is typically £20,960 per year or £10.10 per hour. However, some health and care roles may have a reduced salary threshold depending on the job’s classification and the shortage occupation list.

3. English Language Requirement

You must demonstrate proficiency in English by passing an approved English language test. Alternatively, if your education was conducted in English, you may provide proof of this to meet the language requirement. Acceptable tests include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Occupational English Test (OET) for healthcare professionals.

4. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your UK employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which confirms your job offer and your eligibility for the Health and Care Visa. This certificate is a unique reference number you will need when applying for the visa.

5. Maintenance Funds

You must prove that you have enough money to support yourself when you arrive in the UK. This can be shown through bank statements or documents demonstrating that your sponsor will cover your maintenance costs. Typically, the required amount is £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 days before applying for the visa.

6. Criminal Record Check

Certain health and care roles may require a criminal record check. Your UK employer will inform you if this is necessary for your particular job.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the UK Health and Care Visa from Pakistan

Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a UK Employer

Before you can apply for the UK Health and Care Visa, you must secure a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor. This means they are approved by the Home Office to employ foreign workers in certain health and care roles. Your employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to confirm your eligibility.

Step 2: Check Your Job’s Salary and Eligibility

Ensure that the role you’ve been offered meets the minimum salary threshold. The salary must generally be at least £20,960 per year or £10.10 per hour. Verify that your job is on the UK’s shortage occupation list, as some roles may be eligible for reduced salary thresholds.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Once you have your job offer and sponsorship, you need to prepare the necessary documents to submit with your visa application. These documents typically include:

• Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer
• Proof of your English language proficiency
• Evidence of funds to support yourself (bank statements showing the required £1,270)
• A criminal record check (if applicable)
• A valid passport or travel document
• Any additional documents requested by your employer or the UK Home Office

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

The next step is to submit your visa application online through the UK Government’s official website. Fill out the required application form, uploading all the necessary documents. The online application will guide you through the process, including entering details about your job, sponsorship, and personal information.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge

After completing the online application, you’ll be required to pay the visa application fee. The fee varies depending on the length of the visa and whether your job is on the shortage occupation list. Generally, the fee ranges from £232 to £464 for a 3-year visa. Additionally, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which provides you with access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.

The IHS is typically around £624 per year. However, the surcharge may be reduced for those applying for the Health and Care Visa.

Step 6: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

Once your online application is submitted, you may be asked to attend a biometrics appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan. At this appointment, you’ll provide your fingerprints and a photograph for identification purposes.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application and biometrics, the UK Home Office will process your visa application. Processing times can vary, but you can generally expect to receive a decision within 8 weeks. During this time, the Home Office may ask for additional information or documents.

Step 8: Receive Your Visa

If your application is successful, you will be granted the UK Health and Care Visa. You will receive a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK. Once in the UK, you’ll receive a biometric residence permit (BRP) confirming your immigration status.

Conclusion

The UK Health and Care Visa provides an exciting opportunity for Pakistani healthcare professionals to work in the UK’s thriving healthcare sector. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the step-by-step application process, you can apply for this visa and make a positive impact on the UK’s healthcare system. Whether you are a doctor, nurse, or social worker, this visa enables you to advance your career and enjoy a fulfilling life in the UK.