Skilled Worker vs Health & Care Worker vs Senior Specialist Worker
Three of the most-used UK work visa routes have different salary thresholds, fees, and benefits. This comparison helps employers and applicants choose the right route.
Tip: scroll the table sideways to see all columns →
Each route has specific occupation codes ("SOC codes") and going rates. The Health and Care Worker visa is significantly cheaper but care worker dependant rights were restricted from March 2024. Always check the current Immigration Rules.
Related guides
Skilled Worker Visa Overview
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for people from outside the UK to work in the country. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020 as part of the post-Brexit points-based immigration system. To be eligible, you generally need a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence, and your role and salary must meet the required thresholds.
9 min
Health and Care Worker Visa
The Health and Care Worker Visa is a sub-route of the Skilled Worker visa designed specifically for doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and senior care workers taking up eligible roles with the NHS, an NHS-commissioned service provider, or an adult social care employer. It offers reduced fees and an immigration health surcharge exemption.
6 min
Senior or Specialist Worker Visa
The Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (formerly known as the Intra-Company Transfer or ICT visa) allows multinational businesses to transfer established senior managers or specialist employees from an overseas branch to a UK branch of the same organisation. It is a non-settlement route with a maximum stay of five years, or nine years for high earners.
7 min
Sponsor Licence for Employers
UK employers who want to hire workers from outside the UK (and outside the existing settled workforce) generally need a sponsor licence issued by the Home Office. Without a licence, you cannot issue Certificates of Sponsorship to prospective employees, meaning overseas workers cannot apply for a Skilled Worker visa to work for you. This guide explains the process and ongoing obligations.
8 min
Family Visa Minimum Income Requirement: 2024 Changes
On 11 April 2024 the Home Office raised the minimum income requirement for spouse and partner visas from £18,600 to £29,000 — the biggest single change to family migration since 2012. Further increases to £34,500 and then £38,700 were announced but their commencement has been suspended pending review. This guide explains who the new threshold affects, the transitional protections, and what to do if you cannot meet it.
10 min
Disclaimer