UK Confirms New Fast-Track Visa for Doctors from Countries like India

In a bid to attract the 'brightest and best' from around the world, the UK is introducing a new visa for medical professionals. This visa is meant for qualified doctors and nurses from countries such as India. It is being introduced to address workforce shortages in the state funded NHS (National Health Service).

Under this NHS visa, qualified doctors, nurses and related health professionals who have been trained to an accepted standard will be offered fast-track entry, reduced visa fees and committed support to come to the UK.

The idea was endorsed by the recently elected UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and was confirmed by the Queen in a speech made by her on 19th December.

 "A modern, fair, points-based immigration system will welcome skilled workers from across the world to contribute to the United Kingdom's economy, communities and public services," the Queen added.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock said "I want the NHS to offer each and every one of us the best care in the world, and so as well as expanding training at home, I want to attract the very best talent in the world to our NHS too.

From its inception the NHS has recruited globally. This new visa will make it easier for us to hire the finest doctors and nurses from other nations to come and work in the NHS — so that patients can receive the best possible care.”

The British government claims that the new visa and immigration system will be in place post-Brexit. This is big news for Indian doctors and those interested in studying medicine and related fields such as psychology, physiotherapy, etc, and those aspiring to work or settle in the UK.

If you are interested in applying to or finding out about schools of medicine in the UK, visit your nearest SI-UK India office or book a free consultation with us today.

Source: The Economic Times and NDTV

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