UK Visas for Vet Surgeons and Vet Nurses- April 2023 update

It’s been over 2 years now since Brexit, which has had a big impact on the UK Veterinary profession. UK Visas for vet surgeons are still a grey area. Prior to this Britians Vet jobs were open to all European Vets and Nurses. It was so easy for locums to come to the UK, work for a few weeks/months and then fly home. Or work in longer term / permanent veterinary roles to suit. Post Brexit the average cost for a  work VISA is £7000 making it a far more expensive and difficult option for people weanting to come here to work.

This has impacted the availabilty of vets in the UK leading to increased daily rates and veterinary practices struggling to cover staff shortages. See our previous article here for more information:

https://www.glvets.com/uk-visa-guide-for-veterinary-staff-january-2023/

We wanted to keep you updated with the latest information regarding coming to work in the UK from Europe. Although we believe it is always advisable to consult the official UK government website in addition to this blog!

Currently the UK has a points-based immigration system in place for Visas for Vet Surgeons. Under the points-based system, skilled workers, including veterinary surgeons, would generally need to meet specific criteria to obtain a visa for working in the UK. The main visa category for skilled workers is the Skilled Worker Visa (formerly Tier 2 General Visa).

To be eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa for vet surgeons. You would typically need to have a job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship license. The employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the veterinary surgeon, who would then apply for the visa.

The Skilled Worker Visa requires applicants to accumulate a certain number of points. Points are awarded based on factors such as having a valid job offer, meeting the English language requirements. Also having the necessary skills and qualifications.

https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk