13/05/2025
The UK Government has just announced major changes to immigration policy and understandably, many international medical graduates (IMGs) are feeling uncertain
It's important to note that while these changes may seem concerning, the skilled worker category is broad, with eligible occupations including IT, Finance, Healthcare and engineering, amongst others
So, it's important to research how the changes will impact your profession specifically
🩺 NHS Doctors on a Skilled Worker Visa:
✅ You can still bring dependants
However, English-language requirements will be increased for all work visas and this will also to apply to adult dependants
✅ You continue to benefit from fast-track processing and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge
✅ You're still recognised as "high-skilled, high-contributing individuals" - a category the UK government is committed to supporting
✅ There will be a fast-track ILR route available for NHS staff, so you won't have to adhere to the new minimum residency requirement before applying (10 years)
Areas of Concern in the Wider Immigration Landscape:
⚠️ Social care & health leaders will undoubtedly be concerned about the risk these immigration rules pose to the care worker and home carers provision
⚠️ The skilled worker salary threshold will increase from £26,200 to £38,700 - a significant jump that could affect those in other sectors
⚠️ New limits on family visas could impact those wishing to bring loved ones to the UK under non-healthcare roles
⚠️ The standard route to ILR has been extended from 5 to 10 years, making settlement a lengthy process
🔍 Bottom Line for Doctors:
These reforms are not designed to deter the global healthcare talent that the NHS depends on
However, it's important to stay informed: Keep updated with official announcements from the UK Home Office regarding the implementation of these changes
📩 If you have any questions or concerns that you'd like to talk through, reach out to us - we'll do our best to help
