The UK care sector continues to play a vital role in supporting vulnerable individuals and communities. At Pleo ReachOut CIC, we are committed to empowering caregivers, especially those navigating the Skilled Worker Visa route. As part of our ongoing support, we want to ensure our community is well-informed about the latest updates to the Skilled Worker (Health & Care) Visa regulations.
Overview of the Recent Changes
The UK Government has introduced adjustments to immigration policies affecting care workers and employers who sponsor international staff. These changes are designed to tighten migration routes, improve worker protection, and reduce exploitation within the sector.
Key updates include:
1. Family (Dependant) Visas
Recent changes now place limitations on care workers bringing dependants to the UK. Care workers applying under certain sponsorship categories may no longer automatically qualify to bring dependants such as spouses or children.
This means applicants need to check their specific visa category carefully before applying.
2. Sponsorship Requirements
Employers who wish to sponsor workers must now meet stricter compliance requirements. This includes:
- Demonstrating ethical recruitment practices
- Providing clear employment conditions
- Ensuring staff are paid according to compliance standards
This change aims to discourage fraudulent recruitment and protect care workers from exploitation.
3. Minimum Salary Threshold Adjustments
The salary thresholds for Skilled Worker Visas have been reviewed. Some roles may now require a higher minimum salary compared to previous years.
Applicants should confirm that their job offer meets current salary guidelines before progressing with visa applications.
4. Ongoing Monitoring and Employer Accountability
Sponsors must maintain accurate records and ensure workers are performing the role they were sponsored for. Failure to comply may result in sponsorship licence revocation, affecting both current and future sponsored employees.
What This Means for Care Workers
If you are already in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa, your current visa remains valid.
However:
- Be cautious when changing employers
- Confirm new employers have an active and compliant sponsorship license
- Avoid any offers that seem “too good to be true”
Your visa conditions are tied to your sponsoring employer, so ensure all transitions follow correct procedures.
How Pleo ReachOut CIC Supports You
At Pleo ReachOut, we recognize that immigration processes can be overwhelming—especially for care workers balancing demanding roles. Our mission is to:
- Provide accurate and clear information
- Support mental well-being and community belonging
- Offer guidance workshops and confidential consultations
- Connect workers with trusted legal and advisory networks
We will continue to host information sessions to help carers and employers stay updated and compliant.
Stay Connected
To join our upcoming seminar on navigating UK care worker immigration rules:
Register your interest: www.pleoreachoutcic.co.uk
Follow our pages for continuous updates, community support, and guidance.
Pleo ReachOut CIC
Empowering Care. Supporting Community. Building Better Futures.
