Navigating changes to the UK immigration policy

Key points for Healthcare Professionals

• The immigration policy changes announced on 4 December 2023 (such as the increased salary threshold) do not apply to NHS workers on a Health and Care Visa
• Health and Care Visa holders will continue to be exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• The changes being made to the Health and Care Visa route will only affect care workers and senior care workers

• Care workers from overseas (SOC 6145) and senior care workers (SOC 6146), will be unable to bring dependants with them once the changes come into effect
• The changes will take effect from Spring 2024
• Until the immigration rules are amended, the current thresholds and policies remain in place
• Care workers, senior care workers, and skilled workers already en-route prior to the new rules being implemented will not be subject to the changes

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In a significant announcement on December 4, 2023, Home Secretary, James Cleverly, unveiled a comprehensive plan to reshape the UK’s immigration system. The measures, set to take effect in spring 2024, aim to achieve the largest-ever reduction in net migration, impacting various sectors, including healthcare.

The announcement has understandably sparked many concerns and queries, especially among Healthcare Professionals.

­As a medical recruitment specialist, we understand the importance of clarifying the implications of these changes for our Doctors and Nurses.

It’s crucial to note that the recent modifications primarily focus on skilled worker visas for carers. Health and Care Visas remain largely unaffected for Healthcare Professionals.

Read on for more details and clarity regarding the announcement.

Key Changes for Skilled Workers

• Minimum salary for skilled worker visas increased to £38,700, a nearly 50% rise.
• Exemption for Health and Care Visas from higher salary threshold to meet NHS staffing needs.

One of the pivotal changes revolves around a substantial increase in the minimum salary required to qualify for a skilled worker visa. The new threshold, set at £38,700, represents a nearly 50% jump from the existing level of just over £26,000. This measure is part of the government’s strategy to discourage reliance on overseas talent and promote investment in the domestic workforce.

However, it’s crucial to note that these changes do not apply uniformly across all professions. Health and Care workers, including Doctors and Nurses, are exempt from the heightened salary threshold, recognising the critical need for these professionals within the National Health Service (NHS).

Health and Care Visas

– Care Workers and Senior Care Workers restricted from bringing dependents.

– Only CQC-registered providers in England can sponsor Health and Care Visa applicants.

For Healthcare Professionals, the changes primarily impact the Health and Care Visa route. Care Workers and Senior Care Workers migrating to the UK will no longer be permitted to bring dependents, comprising partners and children. Moreover, only CQC-registered providers in England can sponsor Health and Care Visa applicants.

Despite these alterations, the salary requirements for Health and Care Visas remain unaffected. The government acknowledges the vital role internationally educated Health and Care workers play and aims to balance its commitment to reducing net migration with the continued support of these professionals.

Shortage Occupation List (SOL) Reforms

– Replacement of SOL with the Immigration Salary List (ISL) with a reduced number of occupations.

– Migration Advisory Committee to review ISL against increased salary thresholds.

In a bid to further regulate immigration, the government is reforming the Shortage Occupation List, a crucial tool that allows individuals to come to the UK on lower wages. The list will be replaced by the Immigration Salary List (ISL), with a reduced number of occupations. The Migration Advisory Committee will review the ISL against increased salary thresholds, aiming to strike a balance between attracting skilled workers and reducing dependence on overseas labour.

The Government’s Perspective and Future Steps

– Home Secretary, James Cleverly, emphasises decisive action to reduce net migration.

– Back to Work Plan aims to grow domestic workforce and reduce reliance on immigration.

Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasised the need for decisive action to lower net migration while safeguarding British workers and public services. The government’s Back to Work Plan, part of the Autumn Statement, aims to grow the domestic workforce and reduce reliance on immigration.

The changes outlined align with the government’s broader strategy to protect the integrity of the immigration system, addressing concerns about exploitation and abuse within certain sectors, particularly in adult social care.

In Summary:

While adjustments to the Health and Care Visa may raise concerns, it is imperative to recognise that these changes do not affect Doctors and Nurses operating under the Skilled Worker Visa.

At ID Medical, we are unwavering in our commitment to supporting Healthcare Professionals. We are here to help you navigate the UK immigration system and discover rewarding career opportunities.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us.

For more information on the Skilled Worker Visa, visit the official government website.

Additionally, NHS Employers has published a helpful FAQ addressing the changes.