On 26 September 2026, Angela Rayner, the UK Housing Secretary, reiterated her criticism of the Home Office’s proposed changes to visa rules for foreign care workers. These reforms, announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood last year, would require low-paid migrants, particularly those in jobs below graduate level, to reside in the UK for 15 years before being eligible for permanent residence. This policy was initially introduced under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership to address voter concerns regarding net migration. The current Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, is reportedly considering exceptions for workers already residing in the UK.
The upcoming Labour conference, led by Burnham, is expected to see debates on these reforms, with over 100 Labour MPs and various trade unions opposing them. Rayner, a former care worker, argues that the changes unfairly target those who have relocated to the UK to support vulnerable citizens. The government is still reviewing responses from a consultation on these proposals, which have not yet been finalised. About 180,000 foreign care workers arrived in the UK between 2022 and 2024, many of whom may be affected by the proposed changes if they are implemented.
Proposed changes to care worker visa rules
The proposed reforms to care worker visas have stirred significant debate within the UK government. Angela Rayner has labelled these changes as “disruptive”, particularly for those who have dedicated their lives to caring for others in the UK. The reforms would extend the period foreign care workers must reside in the country from the current five years to 15 years before they can apply for permanent residency.
These changes are part of a broader strategy to manage migration numbers, but they have faced criticism for potentially penalising workers who have already settled in the UK. Andy Burnham, the current Prime Minister, is reportedly uneasy with aspects of the plan, especially concerning its retrospective application. The government is considering feedback from a consultation process before making a final decision. The Labour government had already stopped recruiting care workers from abroad and imposed restrictions on family members joining them in the UK last year.
What this means for newcomers
If you are considering moving to the UK as a care worker, these proposed changes could significantly impact your path to permanent residency. Currently, many visa routes require five years of lawful residence before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, under the proposed reforms, this period could extend to 15 years for certain low-paid roles.
For those already in the UK, it is key to stay informed about the potential policy shifts that might affect your settlement plans. The UK visa system is undergoing changes in 2026, so keeping track of updates via reliable sources like the UK Expat Daily’s visa guide is advisable. Understanding the current rules and any proposed changes can help you make informed decisions about your future in the UK.
What you should do
- Stay Informed: Regularly check official sources such as GOV.UK or the UK Expat Daily for updates on visa rules. Proposed changes can impact your eligibility for permanent residency, so staying informed is key.
- Plan Your Residency Path: If you are currently residing in the UK on a care worker visa, consider how the proposed changes might affect your timeline for applying for ILR. Planning ahead can help you meet future requirements.
- Seek Professional Advice: If you are unsure about how these changes might affect you, consult a regulated immigration adviser. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation and help you navigate the complex visa landscape.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current qualifying period for ILR?
As of now, the standard qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain is five years of lawful residence on an eligible visa route.
Who proposed the 15-year residency requirement?
The 15-year residency requirement was announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood as part of the Labour government’s efforts to manage net migration numbers.
When will the new visa rules be finalised?
The proposed rules have not been finalised yet. The government is currently reviewing responses from a consultation process before making a final decision.
How many foreign care workers could be affected by these changes?
Approximately 180,000 foreign care workers who moved to the UK between 2022 and 2024 could be impacted by the proposed changes to the visa rules.
Source: Guardian UK: read the original
