VISAs for nurses will be halved in cost and fast-tracked under Tory immigration plans, Boris Johnson announced last night.

The new “NHS visa” will be part of his blueprint for a points-based immigration system after Britain leaves the EU – designed to adapt to the changing needs of the UK economy.

Under the scheme, the cost of a visa for health professionals would be halved from £928 to £464, while applicants would be guaranteed a decision within two weeks.

The move reflects concern within the NHS that it will struggle to attract the staff it needs after Brexit.

Applicants coming to work in the NHS would receive preferential treatment with extra points under the points-based system, and no cap on numbers entering through the NHS route.

They would also be able to pay back the cost of the immigration health surcharge through their salary if the charge is not already covered by the NHS trust offering the job.

'THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS'

The Tories said they want to launch the scheme before the points-based system comes in in 2021.

They have already announced a fast-track visa route to attract specialists in science, engineering and technology.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he wanted to attract "the very best talent in the world" to come to work in the NHS.

"From its inception, the NHS has recruited globally," he said.

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"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."

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "These measures are part of our plan for an Australian-style points-based immigration system that allows us to control numbers while remaining open to vital professions like nurses.

"That means the best of both worlds – attracting talent from around the world so our NHS continues to provide brilliant service while ensuring that it isn't put under strain by opening Britain's borders to the entire world."

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