Over 6000 nurses, doctors, and other frontline staff will have their visas extended for a year for free, the Department of Health and Social Care has announced.
This follows an announcement earlier in the year offering free visa extensions for health professionals whose visas were due to expire between 31 March 2020 and 1 October 2020. The recent decision will extend that offer from 1 October 2020 until 31 March 2021.
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‘I am hugely grateful for all of the frontline health and social care workers from overseas who have worked tirelessly to save lives and provide the best possible care during this global pandemic,’ said Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock.
‘This visa extension will help to benefit healthcare professionals who have shown extraordinary dedication during this challenging period to protect all of us and our families from the threat of the virus.’
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This extension will cover healthcare professionals working in the NHS and the independent health and care sector. Their visas will be extended for a year, free of all fees and charges, including the Immigration Health Surcharge. Those benefiting from this extension will need to complete an online form to verify their identity.
‘We recognise the huge contribution healthcare professionals from overseas are making across the UK in fighting the devastating impact of coronavirus,’ said Home Secretary Priti Patel.
‘We truly value the work these heroes are doing, which is why we’re renewing our free 12-month visa extension offer. We estimate this will benefit a further 6,000 dedicated frontline workers and their families who deserve our support and our gratitude.’