The UK government has recently implemented significant reforms to the Health and Care Worker visa program, aiming to reduce net migration and address exploitation within the care sector. These changes, effective from March and April 2025, introduce stricter requirements for care worker recruitment and visa sponsorship.
Key Changes to the Care Worker Visa Program:
Prioritization of Domestic Recruitment: From April 9, 2025, care providers in England must demonstrate efforts to recruit care workers already residing in the UK before seeking candidates from overseas. This policy intends to support international workers currently in the UK and reduce dependence on foreign recruitment.
Mandatory Registration with the Care Quality Commission (CQC): Care providers sponsoring migrant workers are now required to register with the CQC. This measure aims to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and protect workers from exploitation.
Restriction on Dependants: Care workers are now restricted from bringing dependants to the UK. This decision follows a notable increase in the number of dependants accompanying care workers in previous years.
Increased Salary Thresholds: The minimum salary for skilled worker visas has been raised by 48% to £38,700. This increase aims to prevent the undercutting of British workers and reduce pressure on public services.
Government’s Rationale:
Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the need to address “clear abuse” and “unsustainable migration numbers” within the care sector. The government asserts that these reforms will protect British workers and ensure that immigration policies are fair and sustainable.
Individuals abroad seeking care worker positions in the UK will now face more stringent requirements. The emphasis on domestic recruitment, combined with higher salary thresholds and restrictions on dependants, may make it more challenging for overseas applicants to secure positions. Prospective applicants should stay informed about these changes and consider alternative pathways or opportunities within the UK’s evolving immigration landscape.
These reforms reflect the UK’s broader strategy to manage migration effectively while addressing critical issues within the care sector. Stakeholders, including care providers and prospective migrant workers, must adapt to these new regulations to navigate the UK’s immigration system successfully.
