Doctors from overseas are to have their immigration health surcharges refunded, it has been announced.The new scheme applies to staff who have worked in the NHS since the end of March, rewarding those who worked through the pandemic.Many doctors have had their charges paid by their employers.
Those who have not will have to apply on-line for reimbursement.Health secretary Matt Hancock said: “I am incredibly proud of all the fantastic health and care workers from all over the world we have working in our NHS who provide such an invaluable service, from cleaners to care workers to porters
.“We can now deliver on our promise as the reimbursement scheme will benefit those who have given so much this year to protect us all from COVID-19.“This will encourage overseas health and care workers to continue to come and work in the UK and help those already living here to provide first-class care and support for patients.”
The news was welcomed by the Doctors’ Association UK. Chair Dr Rinesh Parmar said: “The government has stopped short of granting a route towards indefinite leave to remain and citizenship to those who have served and continue to serve our health and social care system in its time of greatest need.“I urge the Home Secretary to think again, to right the wrongs and missteps of previous years and recognise the dedication and contribution of migrant workers in health and social care.”
