UK Implements Stringent Care Worker Visa Rules

The UK government has introduced new measures aimed at reducing net migration and addressing visa misuse. Under the implemented law, care workers are now prohibited from bringing dependents, a decision made in response to the fact that 120,000 dependents accompanied 100,000 workers in the sector last year. Additionally, care providers in England acting as sponsors for migrants must register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the regulator for Health and Social Care, to prevent worker exploitation.

As part of broader reforms, an estimated 300,000 people eligible to come to the UK last year will no longer have that option. Home Secretary James Cleverly MP emphasized the significant contribution of care workers to society but stated that action was necessary to address abuse, immigration system manipulation, and unsustainable migration numbers.

Read more: UK Closely Reviews Crackdown On Foreign Worker Visas

Evidence shows that care workers have been offered visas under false pretenses, often for non-existent jobs or with wages below the required minimum. The government plans to present rules in Parliament to prevent undercutting of British workers, including raising the salary threshold for skilled workers and removing the 20% discount for migrant workers in shortage occupations.

Changes to student visas have already been implemented, and further adjustments, such as the abolition of the Shortage Occupation List, are set to take effect in April. The minimum salary for Skilled Worker visas will increase by 48% from £26,200 to £38,700 on April 4th, with family visa income requirements also rising. These measures respond to criticism of rising immigration numbers, prompting the government to reconsider its pro-immigration policies.