As a result of the global pandemic, public support has rocketed for UK healthcare staff who are risking their lives to save others, and many of them come from overseas. Following public pressure and Parliamentary scrutiny, the Home Office has amended the immigration rules to support NHS staff.
The Immigration Health Surcharge –a levy migrants pay to access the NHS – has been axed for NHS staff. The fee, which is rising to £625 in October 2020, still applies to non-healthcare workers. Also, NHS staff with visas that will expire before 1st October 2020 will receive an automatic visa extension of up to 12 months. MPs debated whether to extend immigration relief to migrant care staff in line with nurses and doctors. It is hoped that care workers will soon have their visas extended for another 12 months.
Many feel that the measures don’t go far enough and cross-party MPs are planning to table an amendment to the Immigration Bill to grant NHS workers full British Citizenship. According to a survey by the London School of Economics, most UK citizens (61%) support granting permanent residency to NHS workers.
Priti Patel, the Home Secretary, says she is keeping “everything under review” as the COVID-19 outbreak unfolds, including immigration rules. She has said that she will consider granting NHS staff British Citizenship but no final decision has yet been taken.
Scarsdale Immigration Solicitors
Scarsdale Solicitors Manchester, Scarsdale Solicitors Oldham and Scarsdale Solicitors Rochdale are constantly monitoring the evolving Coronavirus COVID19 situation and following all the recommended guidance and advice that is issued by the UK Government, NHS and Public Health England. Our Manchester Immigration solicitors, Oldham immigration solicitors and Rochdale immigration solicitors clients can be rest assured that we remain open for business to support you and your family at this time.
