The cross-party working group of MPs has criticised the government’s decision to exclude many low-paid NHS staff from fee-free visa extensions in a recent report. They point out that the exclusion fails to recognise the contribution made by NHS staff at all levels to the battle against COVID-19.
Senior staff in the health and social care sector can extend their stay in the UK for free, but many people in lower-paid roles must pay the standard visa extension fee. The committee commended the government’s decision to offer a free extension to NHS and social care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, but say the move must go further and include all staff in the sector.
The committee said: ‘Many excluded NHS employees – including hospital porters, cleaners and administrative staff –provide essential services to the NHS at this most trying time.’. It went on to point out that the situation is more unjust because lower-paid employees are those least able to afford the costs.
The calls come after the government ceded to demands for the Immigration Health Surcharge – an annual £400 fee that the vast majority of those with temporary leave to remain in the UK must pay – be discarded for NHS staff and care workers. Until last month, NHS workers from overseas still had to pay the surcharge – funding the very service they provide.
However, as the COVID-19 pandemic shone a light on the sacrifices of migrant health and social care workers, the government decided to exclude them from the fee.
Scarsdale Immigration Solicitors
Scarsdale Solicitors Oldham, Scarsdale Solicitors Manchester and Scarsdale Solicitors Rochdale are continuously monitoring the ever-evolving COVID19 (Coronavirus) pandemic situation and following all guidance and advice that is issued by the NHS, Public Health England and the UK Government. Our Rochdale immigration solicitors, Manchester Immigration solicitors and Oldham immigration solicitors clients can be assured that we remain open to support you and your family at this time.
