Immigration rule changes will make it easier to recruit dental therapists
A change in immigration rules will make it easier to recruit employees for health and care jobs, including dental therapists, experienced carers and nurses.
Under new guidelines announced by the government, candidates who want to apply for posts from overseas will be able to take advantage of a simpler and faster process to obtain a skilled worker visa. The change will apply to key roles, where there are shortages, including dental therapists, audiologists, senior care workers, nursing assistants and pharmacists.
Modifications to existing immigration rules will ensure that businesses and organisations based in the UK will be able to access global talent pools and employ skilled workers currently based overseas. The changes are an extension of a new policy, which is centred on a points-based system similar to the one currently used in Australia.
Kevin Foster, minister for future borders and immigration, explained that the new system, in combination with the Health and Social Care Visa, will make it easier for health and care workers from overseas to seek employment in the UK and for public health organisations to recruit the best talent.
As part of the new points-based system, applicants must have a total of 70 or more points to obtain a visa. A job on the shortages list is worth 20 points. Points are also awarded for having an approved sponsor, speaking English to an acceptable standard and possessing the relevant skill level for the job.
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