As UK bans dependents on study visas, Punjab students find an alternative: ‘care worker’

The number of visas granted to dependents reached a record high of 1,36,000 last year. It was more than eight times higher than the figure in 2019 (before Covid-19). Experts say that before January 2024, students can apply for intakes in September and November on study basis and they would be eligible to take spouses along. However, after that, they would no longer be eligible to bring dependents along with them.

Nawanshahr-based Rahul Arora, a student who graduated last year and is currently employed in the automobile sector, had planned to move to the UK with his family. He had initiated the process for the January 2024 intake for a postgraduate course. However, in the light of this recent development, he is after his consultant to expedite his case so that he can reach the UK before January 2024, that is, he is now thinking of either September or November intake.

While talking to The Indian Express, a Jalandhar-based overseas consultant said that several students in their final year of college had already inititated the process to go to the UK next year after completing their graduation. However, with the new UK restrictions, they are now exploring other options. The consultant has suggested applying under the caregiver visa category.

According to experts, the caregiver visa falls under the UK health programme – the National Health Service (NHS). Aspiring individuals can apply if they have an employer in the NHS or any organisation associated with the NHS that sponsors them after meeting the required caregiver qualifications.

Due to staff shortage in this field, several NHS employers are willing to sponsor qualified individuals. Successful applicants can stay in the UK for five years, with the opportunity of extending their visa. They can also bring their dependents along, and there are various facilities available for caregivers, according to another overseas consultant Gurpreet Singh.

He further explained that many graduates interested in migrating to the UK with their families can easily meet the requirements. An English language proficiency level of B1, which is the third level of English in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), is required. At this level, individuals must understand everyday speech, but not yet proficient enough to work or study exclusively in English. Additionally, a minimum amount of funds must be shown in their bank account.

Gurpreet Singh also noted that a significant number of aspirants are now applying for the September and November intakes to migrate to the UK before the new rules come into effect in January 2024.

Another overseas consultant mentioned that several youths are exploring this channel (caregiver visa) to go to the UK. The aspiring individuals should have experience in social care or nursing, he said.

After spending five years in the UK, caregiver visa holders can apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR) and live permanently in the UK, eventually becoming eligible for citizenship. Also, the same is applicable for their spouses and children who can pursue studies or any course there. The caregivers can also pursue their studies side by side and can get any other job on the basis of their qualification later, said another expert while talking to The Indian Express.