UK Care Visa Ban: Top Alternatives for Foreign Workers Seeking Employment in 2025

But what does this mean for foreign care workers and those aspiring to work in the UK? Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing, what remains, and what other work visa options may still be available.

The Health and Care Worker Visa: A Closer Look

The Health and Care Worker visa supports qualified healthcare professionals in the UK’s NHS or social care. It’s a key route, but recent changes impact general care workers (SOC 6135/6136).

Crucial Update: From April 9, 2025, new overseas applicants for general care worker roles are largely ineligible; employers must prioritise domestic recruitment.

Key Points:

• Requires a confirmed job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved UK employer.
• Other eligible roles include doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.
• Benefits include reduced fees, fast processing, IHS exemption, and a path to permanent residency.

UK Care Worker Visa Ban: Key Details

No New Overseas Applications: Starting in 2025, the UK will no longer accept new applications for the care worker visa from individuals outside the country.

Transition Period Until 2028: Those already in the UK under a care worker visa can continue working and extend their stay until 2028. The government will also allow in-country switching to other visa types during this period.

Policy Under Review: Officials have stated that the visa policy may undergo further changes, depending on the progress of domestic workforce development.

Why Is the UK Ending the Care Worker Visa Route?

According to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, the move marks a “fundamental shift” in immigration policy, aiming to:

• Curb overall immigration numbers.
• Reduce dependency on migrant workers in social care.
• Encourage the recruitment and training of UK-based care professionals.

What This Means for Aspiring Migrant Workers

If you’re planning to work in the UK’s healthcare sector, this closure could limit direct access to care jobs via the Skilled Worker (SOC 6145 & 6146) route. However, it’s not the end of the road. Several alternative visa options still exist, especially for qualified professionals and those already in the UK.

Alternative UK Visa Options for Care Workers

Here are other visa routes that migrant care workers can consider:

1. Health and Care Worker Visa (for Qualified Roles Only)

• Still available for nurses, doctors, paramedics, and senior care workers.
• Must meet salary thresholds and job requirements under eligible SOC codes.
• Benefits include fast-track processing, lower visa fees, and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.

2. Skilled Worker Visa (Non-Care Roles)

• Applicants can switch to other eligible roles under the Skilled Worker route.
• Must secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor and meet salary thresholds.
• Relevant job categories include healthcare support roles, hospitality, and construction (depending on shortages).

3. Student Visa (Pathway to Work)

• Study in the UK and later switch to a post-study work visa (Graduate route).
• Offers the chance to gain UK qualifications and work experience.
• Can transition into other skilled job roles post-graduation.

4. Temporary Work Visas

• Some temporary visa categories (e.g., Seasonal Worker Visa) offer limited access to UK jobs, although not specific to care roles.
• These may not lead to a settlement, but can provide a short-term work opportunity.

What Should Existing Care Workers in the UK Do?

If you’re already in the UK:

• Extend Your Current Visa before expiration.
• Switch to an eligible visa route if your role or qualifications allow.
• Seek guidance from a registered immigration adviser to assess your options.

The transition period up to 2028 gives existing care workers time to adjust and plan ahead.

Final Thoughts

The closure of the care worker visa for new overseas applicants marks a significant change in UK immigration policy. While it narrows the path for foreign care workers, those already in the UK or with healthcare qualifications still have options.

The key is to stay informed, explore alternate visa routes, and consider upskilling to fit into higher-skilled roles still in demand.