[Updated April 2026] UK Health and Care Visa: New Fees & Rules

Do you plan to apply for a job in the health sector in the UK in 2026? The UK government has implemented many changes to the[Updated April 2026] UK Health and Care Visa: New Fees & Rules. From the increased visa fees to the rules for bringing family members (dependants) along with the visa, it is essential that you stay updated to apply for the visa successfully.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the immigration rules and the process for applying for a visa in 2026.

1. Major Updates for April 2026

The immigration scene in the UK has changed. If you are making an application or switching to a Health and Care visa this year, here are the three biggest changes for you:
Visa Fee Increase (8 April 2026): As per the official GOV.UK fee table, the application fee has increased by around 6-7%.
Salary Thresholds: The minimum salary requirement has been changed to ensure that it meets the “going rate” for the health sector.
Family (Dependant) Restrictions: The ban on bringing partners and children for care roles continues to be strictly in place.

2. Who is Eligible for the Health and Care Worker Visa?

To apply for this visa in 2026, the following criteria need to be fulfilled:

Qualified Professional:
The candidate needs to be a qualified doctor, nurse, health professional, or adult social care professional.

Eligible Job:
The candidate needs to have an eligible health and social care occupation code (SOC code)

Approved Employer:
The candidate needs to have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer who is licensed by the Home Office.

Salary Requirement:
The candidate needs to earn a salary of at least £25,000 per year or the “going rate” for the job the candidate is applying for, whichever is higher.

3. New Visa Fees from 8 April 2026

One of the most searched topics is the cost. The following is the updated fee structure for the Health and Care Worker Visa:

Good News: The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is still EXEMPT for Health and Care Worker Visa applicants and their families. This saves you £1,035 per year compared to other visa routes.

4. The “Family Dependant” Rule: Can You Bring Your Family?

This is the biggest update for the year 2026.

Care Workers (SOC 6135 & 6136):Since March 2024, those applying for this visa code for the first time are not allowed to bring their partners and children with them to the UK.

Doctors and Nurses:Those working in higher-tier roles (such as doctors and nurses) can bring their family members with them as dependants.

Existing Holders:f you were already a visa holder for this visa category before the update, you can still apply for your family to join you or stay with you when applying for an extension.

5. Minimum Salary Requirements in 2026

The UK government has also made it a requirement to pay a higher salary to support visa sponsorship, eliminating “cheap labor.”

Standard Rate:The minimum salary to apply for a visa is £29,000, unless the job is on the Immigration Salary List.

Health & Education Roles:If the role is NHS-specific or on national pay scales, like Band 3 or Band 5 Nurses, the minimum salary is £25,000

New Entrants:If you are under 26 or are applying from a Student Visa, you can apply for a lower salary of £25,000 or 70% of the going rate for the job.

6. English Language & Financial Requirements

You must demonstrate your English language competence unless you are from a majority English-speaking country.

Requirement:You must show evidence of CEFR Level B1 or above (or IELTS 4.0 in all four components).

Maintenance Funds:You must show evidence of at least £1,270 in your bank account over 28 days to prove you can support yourself, unless your employer “certifies maintenance” on your CoS

7. How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

The steps to follow to ensure your application is not rejected are as follows:

Find a Sponsor:Obtain a job offer from an approved UK sponsor.
Receive your CoS: Your sponsor will provide you with a digital certificate of sponsorship reference number.

Gather Documents:Collect your passport, TB test results (if applicable), and your English certificate.

Apply Online:Apply online through the official website, GOV.UK

Biometrics:Book an appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) to give your fingerprints and have your photo taken

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Google Snippets

Q1: Is the UK Care Worker Visa closed for overseas applicants?
As of late 2025/early 2026, the “Care Worker” route under SOC code 6135 has become extremely restricted for overseas applicants. The majority of sponsors are now favoring applicants already in the UK, for example, from a Graduate Visa

Q2: How long does the Health and Care Visa take?
Usually, you get a decision within 3 weeks if you are applying from outside the UK. Priority services are available for an extra fee.

Q3: Can I switch from a Student Visa to a Health and Care Visa in 2026?
Yes, but you must have completed your course or be within 3 months of completion. You must also meet the new salary threshold of £25,000.

Conclusion

The UK Health and Care Worker Visa 2026 is a great route for medical professionals, but the new fee increase and family rules mean that you need to plan ahead. Remember to always check your SOC code and salary to avoid a visa refusal.