October 2026
UK Health and Care Worker Visa for Nurses
Last updated
What This Visa Offers
The Health and Care Worker visa is a UK work visa made for general and specialist doctors, nurses, midwives, care workers, health care assistants, physiotherapists, psychologists, radiographers, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals. It lets eligible applicants live and work legally in roles needed by the NHS or by approved private healthcare institutions. This visa costs less than many other work visas, holders don’t pay the annual Immigration Health Surcharge, and applications are usually processed in about three weeks.
Basic and General Requirements
To qualify, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited university, since the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) checks that your education matches UK standards. You also need at least one year of relevant work experience. There’s no strict age limit, though applicants under 45 generally find it easier to get a job offer and a visa. You must show you have enough funds for your initial living costs in the UK — usually at least £1,270 — unless your employer covers your initial accommodation and living expenses. You also need to prove your English level through IELTS Academic or the Occupational English Test (OET), meeting the score the NMC requires.
How to Start
Start by registering with the NMC: create an account on their official website, submit the required forms and documents, and take the Computer-Based Test (CBT). Once you pass the CBT, the NMC reviews your qualifications and work history. Only after this can you look for a job offer from an approved UK employer, using sites like NHS Jobs, Indeed, LinkedIn, Totaljobs, or specialist nursing agencies — and once you pass the interview, the employer issues your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). With your CoS and completed NMC steps, you can apply for the visa; after arriving in the UK, you’ll take the OSCE exam to finish your NMC registration and receive your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
Can Nurses Bring Their Families to the UK?
Eligible nurses may be able to bring their partner and dependent children to the UK, provided they meet the dependant visa requirements. Family members must submit the required applications and supporting documents. The rules depend on the main applicant’s occupation and circumstances, so it is important to check the current requirements before applying.
When Can Nurses Apply for Permanent Residence?
Eligible Health and Care Worker visa holders may be able to apply for permanent residence in the UK, officially known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), after five years of qualifying residence. Applicants must meet the relevant continuous residence, employment, and other settlement requirements. Completing five years in the UK does not automatically guarantee permanent residence.
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References
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