Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the cancellation of a 15-year wait for indefinite leave to remain for migrant care workers already in the UK. The decision reverses a controversial policy that had required these workers to wait 15 years before qualifying for permanent residency. The change comes after pressure from advocacy groups and concerns over retrospective rules set to take effect in 2026.
The revised immigration rules now allow migrant care workers to apply for indefinite leave to remain after just five years of continuous residence. This adjustment aims to address labor shortages in the healthcare sector and support workers who have been in the UK for several years. The policy shift reflects a broader effort to streamline immigration processes and improve workforce retention.
The original proposal, which had sparked criticism from industry leaders and migrant advocacy organizations, was seen as overly restrictive and impractical for healthcare professionals. The new rules align more closely with the needs of the sector, offering a more flexible pathway for skilled workers. The change is part of a wider review of immigration policies aimed at balancing workforce demands with legal compliance.
