UK Ends Health and Care Worker Visa for Foreign Care Staff

The United Kingdom has officially ceased issuing new Health and Care Worker visas to foreign nationals, with the directive coming into effect on Monday, July 22, 2025.

This policy shift is part of broader immigration reforms aimed at reducing net migration figures, particularly in lower-income job categories.

Until the change, the visa—listed under SOC Code 6145 and included in the UK’s Shortage Occupation List—allowed many workers, especially from developing countries, to take up roles in the UK’s overstretched social care sector. The visa had also offered favourable conditions such as reduced application fees, lower salary requirements, and expedited processing.

With the new restriction in place, these benefits are no longer applicable, and no new applications will be accepted under the category.

According to officials, the decision is intended to encourage domestic employment and address reported abuses of the visa sponsorship framework.

TravelBiz reports that the measure reflects the UK government’s determination to tighten immigration control and prevent exploitation by employers and intermediaries.

The Home Office emphasised that the move aligns with the country’s long-term economic vision and immigration management strategy.

However, stakeholders in the health and care sector are sounding the alarm, cautioning that this could intensify the workforce crisis already burdening care providers across the UK.

Many organisations have warned that the decision might severely impact operations, as foreign workers have played a vital role in supporting daily activities that the domestic labour market has struggled to fulfil.

Current visa holders in the UK will not be affected by the changes and can continue to work until the expiration of their visas. According to the Home Office, dependents already admitted under the previous rules will retain their rights.

Additionally, individuals holding valid Health and Care Worker visas may change employers if the new role adheres to the conditions of their existing visa. Some may also qualify for extensions under transitional arrangements.

Despite official assurances that the policy is designed to protect British jobs and reinforce immigration controls, critics argue it could exacerbate staffing shortages in a critical sector already under stress.