The UK government has announced significant changes to the immigration system, particularly affecting the Health and Care Worker visa route. These changes aim to reduce net migration to the UK and address concerns over worker exploitation and abuse within the adult social care sector.
No More Dependants for Care Workers
One of the most significant changes is that from 11 March 2024, care workers and senior care workers applying for a Health and Care Worker visa will no longer be permitted to bring dependants (partners and children) with them to the UK. This move is part of the government’s plan to deliver the “biggest-ever cut in migration.”
The rationale behind this decision is to address concerns about “high levels of non-compliance” and “worker exploitation and abuse” within the adult social care sector. However, this change is likely to make the UK a less attractive destination for care workers with family members, potentially exacerbating the existing staffing crisis in the care sector.
CQC Registration Requirement for Sponsors
Another key change is that from 11 March 2024, only employers registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and carrying out a regulated activity in England will be able to sponsor care workers and senior care workers under the Health and Care Worker visa route.  This requirement aims to ensure that sponsors meet certain standards and regulations in the care sector.
Transitional Arrangements for Existing Visa Holders
The good news is that these changes will not apply retrospectively to those who have already applied for a Health and Care Worker visa before 11 March 2024. They will be able to extend their permission and bring dependants, provided their employment and sponsorship in these roles have been continuous.
Salary Threshold Increase for Skilled Workers
In addition to the changes affecting the Health and Care Worker visa, the government has also announced an increase in the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visa holders. From 4 April 2024, the minimum salary threshold will rise to the higher of £38,700 or the going rate for the specific occupation.
However, this increase will not apply to health and care workers, who will continue to be exempt from the minimum salary threshold. Instead, they will need to meet whichever is higher: £23,200 or the occupation-specific threshold.
Shortage Occupation List Replaced by Immigration Salary List
The Shortage Occupation List (SOL), which previously allowed employers to sponsor workers in certain occupations at a lower salary threshold, will be replaced by a new “Immigration Salary List” (ISL). The ISL will retain a general threshold discount, but it is expected to be lower than the current 20% salary discount under the SOL.
Increased Scrutiny and Delays in Processing
It’s worth noting that the Home Office has also increased scrutiny and compliance visits for sponsor licence applications and visa applications. This has led to increased delays in processing, which needs to be factored into future sponsored visa applications.
Conclusion
The changes announced by the UK government aim to reduce net migration and address concerns over worker exploitation in the care sector.
While these measures may achieve their intended goals, they also pose challenges for the already struggling care sector and may make the UK a less attractive destination for overseas care workers.
Employers and visa applicants should stay updated on the latest developments and seek professional advice to navigate these complex changes effectively. For more information and guidance, you can contact immigration experts or visit the official UK government website.
Also Read:
UK Visa Sponsorship Jobs: A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Workers
Calling All Nurses, Midwives & Health Pros: NHS Now Sponsoring UK Work Visas
New UK Immigration Rules 2024: What Healthcare Workers and Employers Need to Know
2024 UK Care Worker Visa Guide: Essential Insights for Compliance and Successful Application
