We can all agree that NHS workers have been the true heroes throughout these unprecedented times of Covid-19. They are working relentlessly to protect us all and we are in need of them more than ever. In recognition of the current situation, the government has announced that foreign health professionals such as doctors, nurses and paramedics who currently hold visas which are due to expire before 1 October 2020 will automatically have their visas extended for one year to enable the NHS to continue fighting Covid-19.
Therefore, no application has to be submitted, no further fee has to be paid and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) will be exempt. The extension will also apply to family members of the health professionals. Priti Patel has also lifted the restriction on the number of hours student doctors and doctors can work to ensure there is no barrier to the NHS working at full capacity. This is great news as it will ensure that all NHS workers are fully focused on tackling Covid-19 without worrying about their visas expiring.