Tier 2 Health & Care Worker Visa – how do I apply and what’s the process?

  • November 17, 2021
 

Arranging your own UK visa and immigration as an overseas doctor can be challenging. In this series of articles we offer a helping hand with Tier 2 visas, navigating UK visa requirements, guidance on certificates of sponsorship and point scoring systems.

In this article we focus on the Tier 2 Health & Care Worker visa application process and the documents you will need, looking specifically at the following:

What is a Tier 2 Health & Care Worker Visa?

First of all, congratulations!

If you’re looking to apply for a Tier 2 H&C visa, then the chances are you have interviewed successfully and accepted a job offer from an NHS Trust.

A Tier 2 visa is the document given to a skilled worker by the UK Home Office following a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship License. 

The list of valid Tier 2 Sponsors can be found here

It is safe to assume that the NHS trust you are applying to has a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship license and that your IMG Consultant will have already checked this for you.


A Tier 2 H&C visa will allow an overseas doctor to enter and work in the UK for an initial period of 5 years and 14 days. Alternatively, you can stay for the time given on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 1 month.


What is the application process?

Once you have accepted a job offer the hospital will immediately apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the UK Home Office. 

Once the trust assigns the CoS to your name, you will then need to carry out the visa application process with two stages to consider:

  • the online application form
  • attending an appointment at your local visa application centre

It is worth noting that if you have applied for a visitor visa prior to this (possibly for the PLAB 2 exam) the process is very similar.

The online application form – the process:

Before beginning your application, we always advise compiling your details and scanning your documents (as outlined below). This will help avoid delays once you have started the application.

Applications are complete online and the process is as follows:

As above, compile your details and documents. Scan all documents from the list below before starting.

  • Start and complete the application - Once you have entered all of your details, the application service will offer an appointment at a local visa appointment centre near you.
  • Pay the visa fee
  • Further actions will be prompted:
    • Download document check list - A helpful checklist to ensure you submit everything that is needed. We strongly recommend you use this to ensure nothing is missed.
    • Provide documents and biometric details - At this stage, you can upload electronic copies of your documents.
    • Making an appointment with your local visa application centre - Once you have made an appointment you will receive an email with your appointment confirmation letter. Make note of the details and print this confirmation to take with you to the appointment.
    • Selecting location for Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) pick up in UK - Think carefully about where you will be able to pick this up in the UK. You will have 30 days from your date of arrival in the UK to retrieve this from the post office you have selected. Once you have chosen, you will be sent a BRP collection letter. Print this and bring it with you to the post office to retrieve your biometric residence permit.

A good idea is to choose a Post Office close to the hospital so you can easily collect it once relocated to the UK.

  • Submit your complete application

Once all of the steps above have been completed your online visa application will be processed for review.

Please remember, if you are inactive for 25 minutes you will be automatically logged out.

The online application form - documents & information needed:

The application process will require you to provide both a large amount of information and submit a number of documents:

Information that you will be expected to provide includes:

  • Personal details and family information
  • Travel and national identity details
  • Employment details
  • Expected spend for your initial months in the UK
  • Accommodation details
  • Previous visa refusals
  • Criminal convictions

Documents that you need to upload electronically:

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) - As of June 2018, all doctors and nurses can be automatically allocated an Unrestricted CoS.

You can find more information regarding the CoS here.

  • Cover letter for your application
  • Evidence of your knowledge of English 

IELTS for UKVI, OET or UK NARIC are valid.

See our blog series on English Language Testing (including OET and IELTS) here.

  • Criminal Records Certificate

See our article on the process of applying for your Criminal Records Certificate here.

  • Tuberculosis Test Clearance Certificate (if from any of the listed countries)

See our article on how to obtain your Tuberculosis Test Clearance Certificate here.

  • Confirmation of maintenance (if available)

Usually this is provided by the Trust as your sponsor, however in some circumstances this is not provided. See here for more information on a confirmation of maintenance.

  • Other documents
    • Certificate of full registration with the GMC
    • Certificate of full registration as a medical practitioner in your home country
    • Primary Medical Qualification Diploma
    • Tenancy agreement or accommodation details of any previous stays in the UK (if applicable) 
    • Any previous/expired passports from the last 10 years
    • Current passport details
    • Evidence you can travel and travel history over the last five years 

Appointment at your local visa application centre:

As part of your online application you will have made an appointment with a local visa application centre. 

You can make sure there is an appointment centre accessible to you by using this link.

Please note, there is also an ‘On Demand Mobile Visa’ service available that can come directly to you and avoid the necessity of attending an appointment at an application centre. Check using the link above. 

At this appointment you will need to: 

  • bring your passport
  • confirm your ID 
  • have your fingertips and photograph taken for a biometric residence permit

It is important to check if the Visa Application Centre requires you to provide photocopies or originals of all your documents. 

Make sure you bring all documents outlined in your confirmation email to your appointment with the visa application centre. If you do not bring all the requested documents your application will not be finalised and you will need to re-book.

How much will this cost me?

Up to 3 years

More than 3 years

Who’s applying

Who's applying

Yourself

£247

Yourself

£479

All dependents

£247 per person

All dependents

£479 per person

 

Tracking your visa application:

Once your visa application is being processed you can track its progress online.

Once my visa application is successful, what happens next?

First things first, congratulations! You are just a few steps away from completing your journey to the UK and can now firm up your relocation plans, putting into action your relocation checklist. 

Once your application is underway you should begin discussing with your IMG Consultant UK relocation plans including accommodation and travel, bank accounts, schooling and any other questions you might have.


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Get in Touch

Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

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Relevant Jobs

105,504 - 139,882

A leading NHS mental health hospital in the East of England is looking for a Consultant Psychiatrist in General Adult Psychiatry with an interest in acute inpatient care. The psychiatry department consists of a team of consultant psychiatrists and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This General Adult Psychiatry job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCPsych are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

 

  • Consultant level experience in psychiatry

  • Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full), or EEA specialist certification

  • Anyone with an interest and prior experience in acute inpatient psychiatry should apply.

  • The salary will be between £105,504 to £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide consultant leadership and psychiatric input into the acute inpatient unit.

  • Work closely with the multidisciplinary team, ensuring strong links with community teams.

  • Supervise junior doctors and support their training and professional development.

  • Participate in strategic planning, governance meetings, and service development.

LIFE IN THE REGION

This region offers a mix of urban and rural living, with vibrant city life and picturesque countryside nearby. Popular areas include city centre locations for convenience and scenic villages for a quieter lifestyle. The area is well connected, with excellent transport links, top-rated schools, and various leisure activities, including shopping, outdoor parks, and cultural events.

Rich in history, this region is known for its medieval architecture and contributions to British heritage, making it an attractive place to live and work.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice

  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking

  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable

  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation

  • Travel Arrangements

  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

105,504- 139,882

An NHS hospital in the South East of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Breast Oncology. The Oncology department comprises a team of experienced Medical and Clinical Oncologists, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and a robust research unit. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or a suitable Royal College qualification are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Full or specialist registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) or eligibility within six months is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Manage breast cancer patients, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across the region.
  • Deliver systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
  • Participate in breast cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
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LIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST

The South East of England offers a mix of coastal and countryside living, with excellent urban options and picturesque rural retreats. The region provides easy access to London and international travel, making it a convenient yet scenic place to live and work.

The area is home to top-performing schools, a thriving job market, and fantastic leisure activities, including watersports, hiking trails, and cultural festivals. There is a strong medical and academic presence, with opportunities for research and collaboration.

Historically, the region played a key role in shaping England, from medieval battles to its significant contributions to maritime history. The blend of heritage and modern development makes it an exciting place to live and work.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role, including:

  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
59,175 - 95,400

A UK-based mental health trust is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Older Adult Inpatient Psychiatry to join their team at a well-established psychiatric inpatient unit. The Older Adult Psychiatry department includes consultants, specialty doctors, junior doctors, and a multidisciplinary team, offering comprehensive care to inpatients. This role is open to both UK-based and international doctors, particularly those with MRCPsych or equivalent European Specialist qualifications.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Applicants should have full GMC registration and at least four years’ postgraduate training, with at least two years in a psychiatry specialty training programme or equivalent experience.
  • Experience working in Older Adult Psychiatry or Inpatient Psychiatry is desirable.
  • The salary will be between £59,175 - £95,400 per annum, dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide psychiatric and medical expertise to inpatients, including clerking new admissions, conducting ward rounds, and leading reviews.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, occupational therapists, and junior doctors, to provide high-quality inpatient care.
  • Participate in Mental Health Act (MHA) responsibilities, including writing reports and attending tribunals when required.
  • Contribute to teaching and supervision of junior medical staff.

LIFE IN THE REGION

The region offers an attractive combination of coastal and rural living, with easy access to major cities and transport links. Doctors moving here can choose between bustling town life or scenic countryside retreats.

The area boasts excellent schools, leisure facilities, and strong transport connections, making it a great choice for professionals and families. Historically, it has a rich cultural and architectural heritage, with numerous attractions for residents to enjoy.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
  • At least two video interview preparation sessions.
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:

  • Document gathering and checking.
  • COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
  • Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
59,175 to 95,400
A mental health service in the UK, in the South of England, is looking for a Specialty Doctor in General Adult Psychiatry with an interest in crisis intervention and intensive home treatment. The psychiatry team consists of consultants and a multi-disciplinary support staff, working with a caseload of 15–20 patients. Applications are open to both UK and international doctors, with MRCPsych or equivalent psychiatric training being particularly desirable.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
  • Candidates must hold full GMC registration and have completed at least four years of postgraduate training, with at least two years in psychiatry.
  • Prior experience in community or inpatient psychiatry is required.
  • The salary will be between £59,175 to £95,400 per annum, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Provide medical support to a crisis and home treatment service, attending team meetings and case reviews.
  • Assess and manage patients in crisis, either at home or in a community-based setting.
  • Work closely with CMHTs, inpatient teams, and crisis services to ensure seamless care transitions.
  • Provide supervision and training to junior doctors and other clinical staff.
LIFE IN THE REGION

This region offers a balance of rural and urban living, with access to historic towns, beautiful countryside, and excellent local amenities. Professionals moving to the area benefit from good schools, strong transport links, and a vibrant cultural scene. The area has a rich historical background, with famous landmarks, medieval architecture, and a welcoming community, making it an ideal location for doctors and their families.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions.
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you all the way to starting your new role, including:
  • Document gathering and checking.
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable.
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
  • Travel arrangements.
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
96,990 - 107,155
An independent healthcare service is looking for a Staff Grade Psychiatrist to join a Community Mental Health Team. The department comprises a multidisciplinary team providing care for individuals with severe mental health challenges. This role is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
  • A medical degree, full professional registration, and suitable psychiatric qualifications are required for this role. Experience in community or inpatient mental health services is essential.
  • The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Conduct psychiatric assessments and formulate treatment plans for individuals with severe mental health challenges with adult populations. 
  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and care planning sessions.
  • Provide supervision to junior doctors and engage in research or quality improvement projects.
  • Maintain professional standards through continuous learning and contribution to educational activities.
LIFE IN THE REGION

This position is based in a location offering both urban and rural living options, with easy access to local amenities, beaches, and countryside homes. Families will appreciate the excellent schools, transport links, and diverse leisure activities available in the area. The region is known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant community, making it an attractive place to live and work.

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