The United Kingdom UK government has officially halted the issuance of new Health and Care Worker visas for foreign care workers, effective July 22, 2025.
The move signals a major shift in immigration policy as part of broader efforts to cut down on migration, particularly in lower-wage sectors. The government says the change is aimed at boosting local employment and addressing widespread abuse of the visa sponsorship system.
According to a report by TravelBiz, the decision is designed to prioritise UK-based workers and tighten oversight of the visa pathway. However, critics say the abrupt end to foreign care recruitment may worsen ongoing staffing shortages already affecting the country’s overstretched social care sector.
Under the former policy, care workers classified under SOC Code 6145 were listed on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List. This granted them access to reduced visa fees, lower salary thresholds, and expedited processing. All of those benefits have now been scrapped.
Existing visa holders will still be able to complete their current term, but opportunities for renewal or switching to another care-related visa may no longer be available. No new overseas applicants will be accepted under this category moving forward.
