The UK healthcare sector continues to be a significant employer for international professionals, particularly under the Health and Care Worker (HCA) visa route. This visa allows qualified healthcare professionals to live and work in the UK, contributing to the nation’s health services. However, recent policy changes in 2025 have introduced new challenges and opportunities for both employers and prospective employees.
Understanding the Health and Care Worker Visa
The Health and Care Worker visa is designed for medical professionals to work in eligible health or social care jobs in the UK. To qualify, applicants must:
- Hold a job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
- Work in an eligible health or social care job.
- Have a certificate of sponsorship from their employer.
- Meet the required salary threshold, which has increased to £29,000 as of April 2024.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English.
Notably, care workers and senior care workers in England must ensure their employer is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Leading Employers Sponsoring HCA Visas in 2025
1. National Health Service (NHS)
As the UK’s largest public sector employer, the NHS remains a primary sponsor for Healthcare Assistant visas. It offers a wide range of roles, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and healthcare assistants. The NHS provides competitive benefits, including a pension scheme and professional development opportunities
2. Bupa
Bupa is a leading international healthcare group with facilities across the UK. It offers various roles in medical, dental, and care services, providing visa sponsorship for positions ranging from general practitioners to specialized care providers.
3. Care Homes and Social Care Providers
While new regulations have introduced stricter requirements for care homes to sponsor HCA visas, many providers are still eligible. Employers must be registered with the CQC and demonstrate efforts to recruit from the existing UK workforce before hiring from abroad.
Policy Changes Affecting HCA Visa Sponsorship
Recent immigration reforms have impacted the Healthcare Assistant visa route:
- Dependents Restrictions: As of March 2024, care workers and senior care workers can no longer bring dependents to the UK under this visa route .
- Salary Threshold Increase: The minimum salary requirement has risen to £29,000, effective from April 2024.
- Recruitment Prioritization: From April 2025, care providers must demonstrate efforts to recruit from the existing UK workforce before hiring from abroad.
Tips for Prospective Healthcare Assistant Visa Applicants
- Verify Employer Eligibility: Ensure your prospective employer is approved by the Home Office and, if applicable, registered with the CQC.
- Understand the Salary Requirements: Be aware of the minimum salary thresholds and ensure your job offer meets these criteria.
- Prepare for Policy Changes: Stay informed about ongoing immigration reforms that may affect your eligibility and application process
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