UNISON, the UK’s largest public service union, has issued a stark warning that proposed changes to migrant worker leave-to-remain rules could jeopardise essential public services.
In a response to the government’s consultation on extending the required residency period for overseas workers, General Secretary Christina McAnea condemned the plans as “devastating” for thousands of staff. She argued that the government’s approach undermines morale and sends the wrong signal about the value of migrant workers.
“Judging someone’s worth by the size of their wage slip sends a dreadful message to the people who keep the UK’s public services running,” McAnea said. Many of these workers – care assistants, school support staff and nursing assistants – performed vital roles during the Covid pandemic, she added, yet now face an uncertain future.
Under the proposals, migrant workers could be required to wait 15 years for secure status in the UK — a move UNISON says betrays earlier assurances. McAnea highlighted that while the government recognises the contribution of higher-paid migrant professionals like doctors and senior nurses, it risks neglecting lower-paid but equally critical roles.
UNISON also warned that these plans would deepen the vulnerability of migrant care workers, leaving them dependent on employers for years. The union reiterated its longstanding call for visa sponsorship to be removed from employers, describing the current system as a breeding ground for exploitation.
“These workers should feel welcomed, not vilified,” McAnea insisted, urging that any exemptions apply to all public service staff — not only the most highly paid.
UNISON represents more than 1.3 million workers across the NHS, education, local government, policing, energy, and other sectors.
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