The Home Office has announced changes for care works and senior care workers which will come into effect as soon as possible in 2024. The changes impact the ability to bring dependants on this route. This applies to those whose job occupation code is either 6145 or 6146. Other job occupation codes as part of the Health and Care Worker visa are unaffected by these particular changes.
Already in the UK with Dependants
If you are already in the UK as a care worker or senior care worker, you will be able to remain with your dependants. You can continue to extend your visa, change employer (if within code 6145 or 6146) and settle in the UK.
Already in the UK without Dependants
If you are already in the UK as a care worker or senior care worker but have not yet applied for your dependants to join, you will be able to do so at any time during your sponsorship period on these routes.
Already in the UK on a different route
If you are already in the UK on a different visa (regardless of whether your dependants are with you or not) and you switch to this visa after the changes take effect, your dependants will not be allowed to stay with you or join you on this route.
Already in the UK in a job not regulated by the CQC
If, before the changes take place, you have been sponsored in a role which did not previously require registration with or regulation by the Care Quality Commission, your employer can continue to sponsor you (including applications for extension). However, they will not be able to hire new workers after the changes; only healthcare providers registered with the CQC will be able to sponsor you on this route after the changes.