Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Government eased entry for care workers, significantly increasing Health and Care Worker visa applications.
Conclusion
In 2022, the government eased entry requirements for care workers to help the social care sector address skill shortages and respond to the demands created by the COVID-19 pandemic.34 By the end of 2024, 648,100 people, including 389,600 dependants, had applied for a Health and Care Worker visa since the route was expanded, making up 65% of all applications for Skilled Worker visas over this period.35
Government Response
A response document is linked to this report, dated 15 October 2025. Response attribution to this conclusion has not been verified. Read the response document ↗