Travelling to the UK on a Health Worker Visa
Getting a UK work visa as a health worker is a complex process and requires a thorough understanding of the immigration laws and regulations of the country. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a UK work visa as a health worker, along with hyperlinks to the relevant official articles for further reading.
Step 1: Check if you are eligible for a UK work visa
The first step to obtaining a UK work visa is to check if you are eligible to apply. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. As a health worker, you will most likely be eligible to apply for a Tier 2 (General) visa. The following are the eligibility criteria for this visa:
- You must have a job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid Tier 2 sponsor license.
- Your job must be on the Shortage Occupation List or the employer must be able to demonstrate that they were unable to find a suitable candidate for the role from the resident labor market.
- You must score enough points on the UK Points-Based System (PBS) assessment.
Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK employer
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you will need to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer. Your employer will need to apply for a CoS on your behalf, and they will need to provide information about the role, your qualifications and experience, and the salary being offered.
Step 3: Apply for a Tier 2 (General) visa
After you have received your CoS, you can then apply for a Tier 2 (General) visa. The application process involves submitting a number of documents, including:
- A valid passport or travel document
- A completed Tier 2 (General) visa application form
- Your Certificate of Sponsorship
- Proof of your qualifications and work experience
- Proof of your English language proficiency
- A tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if required)
- Evidence of your maintenance (funds)
Step 4: Attend a visa application center
You may also be required to attend a visa application center for biometric enrollment, which involves having your fingerprints and photograph taken.
Step 5: Wait for the decision on your application
Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for a decision to be made. The processing time for a Tier 2 (General) visa can take up to eight weeks, so it is important to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
It is important to note that this is a general guide, and the requirements and application process may vary depending on your individual circumstances. For more information and to access the relevant official articles, please visit the following links:
- UK Visas and Immigration: Tier 2 (General) visa – https://www.gov.uk/tier-2-general
- UK Points-Based System (PBS) – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-points-based-system
- UK Visas and Immigration: How to apply – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tier-2-visa-application-guide/tier-2-visa-application-guide
- UK Visas and Immigration: Shortage Occupation List – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shortage-occupation-list
- UK Visas and Immigration: Evidence of maintenance (funds) – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-f-financial-requirements
