Visa application
You will need to apply for a health and care worker visa once you are successful in a job application. You must have a confirmed job offer before you apply for your visa. Your employer will also need to provide a certificate of sponsorship. You will have three months to move to the UK once your visa has been approved.
Tuberculosis (TB) testing
You may need to be tested for TB for your UK visa application. This must be by an approved clinic. You should only need testing if your country of residence is listed on the government website.
Immigration health surcharge
You should be exempt from paying this if you enter the UK with a Health and Care Visa.
Bank account
You will need to set up a UK bank account. We recommend using an online bank account. Once you are living in the UK, you can open a UK bank account of your choosing. A proof of address letter can be provided, as you will need it to set up GP registration and banking. You will also need your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and passport. It is beneficial to set up a credit card as soon as possible, to start building a credit history. Revolut accepts people with no credit history.
Probation and supernumerary period
Some organisations will have a probation period for new members of staff. This period is used to support you in your new role and to review performance. Use this time to ask questions and learn how to adapt your role in the UK.
You may also be given a supernumerary period. During this time, you will not normally be counted towards staffing levels to allow time for you to become familiar with your role. This period will differ between organisations but is usually shorter than a probation period.
Some protocols and practices may differ in the UK compared to your home country. Ask your colleagues, line manager and your professional body for help if there is anything you don’t understand. Make sure you work within your capabilities, knowledge and skills and don’t be afraid to speak up.
Accommodation
We can supply a standard referencing letter to support accommodation applications, please request this from your line manager. You can also reach out to your line manager to find out if team members have rooms to rent.
Childcare and schools
Find advice and information on childcare in the UK on the government website.
You can also find advice and information on schools and education and check performance.
Public transport
Public transport, such as buses and trains, will incur a fee.
To search for train stations, use Google maps and search ‘train stations’. To book train tickets, visit Trainline.
To search for bus routes and to plan your journey visit the Kent County Council website.