The UK Health and Care Visa allows nurses, doctors, caregivers, and healthcare workers to work in the United Kingdom. To apply, you must prove your English proficiency—and IELTS is the most widely accepted test for this visa.
This guide explains the minimum IELTS score, UKVI requirements, accepted test types, and preparation tips for Bangladeshi applicants.
Minimum IELTS Requirement for UK Health & Care Visa
To qualify for the Health and Care Worker Visa, you must meet the CEFR Level B1 English requirement.
Minimum IELTS Score (General Training)
- Overall: 4.0
- Speaking: 4.0
- Listening: 4.0
- Reading: 4.0
- Writing: 4.0
This is the minimum standard for visa eligibility, but healthcare jobs (especially nurses) often require higher scores.
Which IELTS Test Is Required for the UK Health & Care Visa?
You must take the IELTS for UKVI (General Training), not the regular IELTS.
Accepted Test Type:
IELTS for UKVI – General Training
This version is approved by the UK Home Office and includes special security and verification standards.
IELTS Requirements for Different Health & Care Professions
| Profession | Required IELTS Type | Minimum Score |
| Caregivers / Care Assistants | IELTS UKVI General | 4.0 overall |
| Senior Carers | IELTS UKVI General | 4.0 overall |
| Nurses (NMC Registration) | IELTS Academic | 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 writing) |
| Doctors (GMC Registration) | IELTS Academic | 7.5 overall |
Important:
- Visa requirement = 4.0
- Job/registration requirement = higher (especially nurses & doctors)
Do Nurses Need a Higher IELTS Score?
Yes.
To work as a registered nurse in the UK, the NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) requires:
- Overall: 7.0
- Listening: 7.0
- Reading: 7.0
- Speaking: 7.0
- Writing: 6.5
However, for caregiver or healthcare assistant jobs, IELTS 4.0 UKVI General is enough.
IELTS Validity for UK Health & Care Visa
- IELTS for UKVI is valid for 2 years
- Must be valid on the date of visa application
- Must include the UKVI test report number
Who Can Apply for the UK Health & Care Visa?
Eligible healthcare roles include:
- Caregiver / Care Assistant
- Senior Carer
- Nurses
- Doctors
- Medical Technicians
- Hospital Support Staff
- Physiotherapists
- Lab Technicians
- Healthcare Support Workers
You must have a valid job offer from a UK employer with a sponsorship license.
Tips to Achieve the Required IELTS Score
1. Understand the Test Format
Know the timing, question types, and marking system.
2. Practice IELTS Listening & Speaking Daily
Healthcare employers highly value communication skills.
3. Use Official UKVI Practice Materials
Helps you get familiar with the question pattern.
4. Take Full Mock Tests
Simulate exam conditions for better control over timing.
5. Get Expert Feedback
A trainer can quickly identify your weaknesses in writing & speaking.
Why Choose Banglay IELTS for UK Health & Care Visa Preparation?
UKVI IELTS Specialists
Experienced trainers who teach requirements specifically for UK healthcare visas.
Targeted Preparation for Caregiver & Nursing Candidates
Special modules for Speaking, Listening, and Writing improvement.
Weekly UKVI Mock Tests
Practice exactly like the real exam.
Writing & Speaking Corrections
Personalised feedback to boost your band.
Online & Offline Batches Available
Flexible classes for students across Bangladesh.
High Success Rate
Many Banglay IELTS students successfully achieved UKVI IELTS scores and moved to the UK under the Health & Care Visa.
FAQ – Health and Care Visa UK IELTS Requirement
1. What IELTS score is required for the UK Health and Care Visa?
Minimum 4.0 overall in IELTS for UKVI General Training.
2. Do nurses need a higher IELTS score?
Yes. Nurses need IELTS Academic 7.0 (6.5 in writing).
3. Can I use normal IELTS for this visa?
No. You must take IELTS for UKVI.
4. Is IELTS required for caregiver jobs?
Yes. Caregivers need IELTS UKVI General 4.0.
5. How long is the IELTS valid for visa applications?
IELTS for UKVI is valid for 2 years.
Contact us today to get started.
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