In the wake of severe staffing challenges in the health and social care sectors, the UK Government implemented several strategies. Among these, the temporary removal of the 20-hour work limit for Health and Care visa holders stands out. However, this exemption ended on 27 August 2023.
This post explores the implications of this decision for health professionals and their employers.
Understanding the Health and Care Visa
The Health and Care visa is a subset of the Skilled Worker visa, designed to:
- Attract skilled doctors, nurses, and health professionals to the UK
- Provide a cost-effective, expedited pathway to the UK’s health sector
Key Criteria:
- A valid job offer in an eligible health or care profession
- Meeting the salary benchmark
- Holding a valid certificate of sponsorship from the hiring entity
The 20-Hour Additional Work Rule: An Overview
Until February 2023, UK-sponsored work visa holders, including those on the Health and Care visa, faced a 20-hour cap for supplementary work. This work had to align with:
- Their primary occupation code or
- A profession on the UK’s shortage occupation list
In February 2023, the Home Office made a pivotal decision:
- The 20-hour restriction was removed for Health and Care visa holders
- This allowed them unlimited supplementary work hours, given it was in a health or care role
- This decision is ended on 27 August 2023
Implications for Health and Care Workers
The removal of the 20-hour restriction brought forth several benefits:
- Enhanced income opportunities during financial crises
- Broader professional experience
- A more substantial contribution to the UK’s health sector
However, potential challenges lie ahead:
- Possible reduction in work hours and salary.
- Visa updates may be needed for roles outside the Health and Care visa scope or for jobs exceeding the 20-hour limit
Employer Considerations
For employers in the health and care sectors, the exemption highlighted the need for:
- Strong Right to Work systems
- Legal obligations, including Right to Work checks, to avoid penalties and potential sponsor licence loss
Looking Ahead
The fate of the 20-hour work cap remains ambiguous. It will hinge on:
- The UK’s health and care staffing dynamics
- The exemption’s influence on the workforce
Guidance for Sponsors
If your establishment is contemplating hiring overseas health professionals, grasping the nuances of visa rule changes is crucial.
In Conclusion
The 20-hour work cap revision for Health and Care visa holders marked a pivotal turn for the UK health sector. As the exemption approaches its August 2023 end, both professionals and employers should brace for potential shifts.
The UK Government’s next move, given the persistent health worker deficit, remains to be seen.
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