In a recent and critical report, the UK Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has accused the Home Office of failing to protect migrant workers from abuse under the Skilled Worker visa scheme. Originally launched in December to address labour shortages in sectors like adult social care.
The scheme has now come under scrutiny for enabling conditions that may lead to worker exploitation, modern slavery, and immigration violations.
Check Also: Scotland New Visas– Check Now
Key Issues:
Over 1.18 million applications have been made through the Skilled Worker visa route since its launch. While the intent was to fill critical roles quickly—particularly in the health and social care sector—the structure of the visa scheme ties a migrant’s legal status to their sponsoring employer.
This means if a worker loses their job or reports mistreatment, their right to stay in the UK may be jeopardized. According to the PAC, this imbalance of power has led to:
- Debt bondage due to recruitment fees paid to unregulated agents
- Excessive working hours, often beyond legal limits
- Bogus job offers and inflated placement costs
- Limited support when employers lose their sponsor license
- A lack of data tracking workers at risk of modern slavery or undocumented status
PAC Says:
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, stated:
“The speed at which the government opened this visa route came at a painfully high cost — to the safety of workers and the integrity of the visa system. And yet, basic information like how many skilled workers are being exploited or staying illegally in the UK hasn’t even been gathered.”
Overseas Recruitment:
In June 2025, the UK government announced a halt on overseas recruitment of care workers, aiming to reduce net migration. However, the PAC warns that this sudden policy change could worsen the social care staffing crisis, as demand for elder and disability care continues to grow.
The PAC is urging the government to:
- Crack down on unregulated overseas recruitment agents
- Improve data monitoring on visa expirations and exits from the UK
- Build inter-agency cooperation to identify and prevent exploitation
- Strengthen safeguards for workers who lose their job or sponsor
- Develop a long-term workforce plan for health and social care sectors
For Migrant Workers:
If you’re currently working in the UK or planning to apply for a Skilled Worker visa—particularly in the care, hospitality, or construction sectors—this report could signal changes in how visas are administered and new restrictions ahead.
Here’s what to expect:
- Increased oversight of employer sponsors
- Possible changes to sponsorship or switching rules
- Uncertainty about future visa pathways for social care roles
- Limited legal protections if your employer violates the sponsorship rules
- Restricted opportunities for new applicants in certain job sectors
Benefits:
- Legal Work Authorization
- Allows you to live and work in the UK legally for an approved sponsor.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (ILR)
- Eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
- Family Sponsorship
- You can bring dependants (spouse/partner and children under 18) to the UK.
- Access to Public Healthcare (NHS)
- Once the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is paid, you and your family can use the NHS.
- Multiple Job Sectors Covered
- Open to various roles including healthcare, IT, education, engineering, hospitality, and more.
- No Job Market Test Required
- Employers don’t need to prove they couldn’t find a UK worker before offering you the job.
- Work Flexibility and Career Growth
- Possibility to change jobs or employers (with a new sponsorship) and gain UK experience.
- Dependants Can Work and Study
- Family members on dependent visas can work full-time or study in the UK.
- International Recognition
- UK work experience strengthens your CV globally and improves future career opportunities.
- Access to UK Benefits (after ILR)
- Once ILR is granted, you may access certain public funds and benefits.
Recommendations for Migrant Workers:
If you are already in the UK or planning to come:
1. Understand Your Rights
- Learn about your visa conditions on the official UK Home Office website.
- Understand what happens if your job ends or your sponsor loses their license.
2. Report Exploitation or Abuse
- Call the Modern Slavery Helpline (0800 0121 700).
- Contact ACAS for help with workplace rights.
- Seek free legal help from organizations like Citizens Advice or Migrant Help.
3. Keep Your Documents Updated
- Always maintain copies of your job contract, visa documents, and any recruitment agreements.
4. Be Cautious with Overseas Agents
- Never pay recruitment agents large upfront fees.
- Ensure your job offer is verified and registered with the UK government.
Conclusion:
The UK’s Skilled Worker visa system was designed to support the economy during a crisis—but cracks are now visible. The PAC’s report highlights the urgent need for systemic reform to protect vulnerable migrant workers and rebuild trust in the system. If you’re considering applying for a Skilled Worker visa, it’s more important than ever to know your rights, stay informed, and work only with licensed employers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What happens if I lose my job or my sponsor’s license is revoked?
You will typically have 60 days to find a new sponsor or leave the UK. If not, your visa may be curtailed.
Can I bring family members with me?
Yes, dependants (partner and children under 18) can join you. They must apply separately and meet the financial requirements.
What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in the UK in eligible roles, primarily in sectors with labor shortages such as healthcare, IT, engineering, and education. Applicants must have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor.
