Starting July 22, 2025, the UK government has officially stopped issuing new Health and Care Worker visas to overseas care workers. If you’re planning to move to the UK for a care job, this is a major roadblock. The move is part of a wider effort to reduce migration numbers, particularly in lower-wage sectors.
Until now, care worker roles (SOC Code 6145) have been classified as shortage occupations. That meant fewer hurdles, lower salary requirements, reduced visa fees, and quicker processing. Not anymore.
Home Office sources say the policy change is aimed at prioritising UK-based workers and curbing abuse of the visa route. However, critics argue that this sudden halt could deepen the existing staff shortages in the social care sector.
Are You Already in the UK on a Care Worker Visa?
If you’re already in the UK on a Health and Care Worker visa, don’t panic, you’re not being deported. You can continue to work until your visa expires. You’re also still eligible to:
If you’re already in the UK on a Health and Care Worker visa, don’t panic, you’re not being deported. You can continue to work until your visa expires. You’re also still eligible to:
- Change employers (if the new job is eligible under your current visa)
- Extend your visa (if it’s still allowed under transition rules)
- Bring dependants, if already permitted under your visa grant
However, there’s a catch: no new overseas care workers can enter under this route. And once your visa expires, your next steps may be limited.
What Happens When Your Care Worker Visa Expires?
This is where things get tricky. If your visa runs out, and you’re no longer eligible under the new immigration rules, you may not be able to renew or switch to another care job visa.
Here are a few paths you could consider:
- Switch to a different visa type, like a Skilled Worker visa in another eligible occupation
- Apply for a student visa, if you’re considering retraining or higher education
- Start the route to settlement, if you’ve already clocked in five years under skilled work
Make sure to speak with an immigration adviser at least six months before your visa expires. Waiting too long could risk your legal status in the UK.
Alternatives to the Care Worker Visa: What’s Left?
If you’re overseas and dreaming of care work in the UK, you’ll need to rethink your plan. While the direct care worker route is now off-limits, a few doors are still open:
1. Nursing and Senior Health Roles
If you’re a registered nurse or have higher-level qualifications, you may still qualify under the Skilled Worker visa scheme. These roles are still on the approved list.
2. Study and Qualify in the UK
Some aspiring care workers are now opting to enter the UK on a Student visa, complete a relevant course (like nursing or social care), and later apply for work through other visa pathways.
3. Other In-Demand Jobs
Keep an eye on the UK Shortage Occupation List. Jobs in construction, engineering, and IT still have easier visa routes. A career pivot might be the way in.
Action Steps
- Consult an authorised UK immigration adviser to review your options as soon as possible.
- Regularly check government announcements for any policy adjustments.
- Maintain all documentation and employment records to facilitate any potential applications.
Final Thoughts
If you’re already here, the key is knowing your rights and acting early. Talk to your employer about your long-term plans. Speak with an immigration expert. And don’t wait until your visa is close to expiring.
For those outside the UK, the care worker route is now off the table, but there are still other ways into the UK job market if you’re willing to retrain or shift careers.
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