Indefinite leave to remain for healthcare workers
Petitions debate
The petition
In January 2023, Thomas Thulani Mthetho created a petition about indefinite leave to remain for healthcare workers.
Thomas made the petition after coming to the UK and working as a nurse in a nursing home for 11 months.
His petition called on the Government to ‘Offer healthcare workers on tier2 visa ILR after 2 years instead of 5 years.’
Over 52,000 people agreed with Thomas and signed his petition.
Petitions debate
The Petitions Committee scheduled a debate on the petition in Westminster Hallon Monday 18 November 2024.
It was led by Tony Vaughan MP.
During the debate, Tony outlined the overarching motives behind Thomas' petition:
"We want all workers to be treated fairly, with rights and protections, so everybody can contribute fully to society without extra hurdles and financial pressures. We want people to be able to contribute in the long term. It goes without saying that all workers should be free from fear of exploitation."
Tony also highlighted his own personal connection to the petition topic:
"My mother worked as a care worker for decades before she retired two years ago. She came from the Philippines in the 1970s and worked as a carer in the NHS and in nursing homes, and I know from her experiences that the work was hard. I thank and congratulate everybody who works in the care sector to provide that vital public service."
Government response
Home Office Minister, Seema Malhotra MP, responded to the debate on behalf of the Government. She said:
"The Government do recognise the vital contribution that health and care professionals from overseas make to our NHS and in social care, and indeed to the wider health and wellbeing of the United Kingdom."
She also highlighted specific provisions for overseas health and care professionals on the Health and Care Worker Visa, including:
- Significantly reduced visa fees.
- A dedicated Home Office team to process applications.
- Exemptions from the immigration health surcharge.
- A waiting time of less than 3 weeks for a decision for most applicants after providing biometrics.
The Minister said: "I totally agree with the sentiment underlying so many of the contributions", but that "on balance, the Government consider that five years is the right length of time for people to demonstrate a reasonable contribution to their sector, as well as their commitment to the UK."
She concluded her speech saying:
"There is no doubt about the important role that health and care staff, and the sector in which they work, play in all our constituencies in supporting communities."
"I assure Members that we will reflect carefully on this debate and on the points that have been raised. We will continue to do all we can to support those in our health and care sector and to ensure their safety."
Thomas' response
"Seeing my petition debated in Parliament fills me with hope and pride, it’s a step closer to amplifying the voices that matter and driving real change."
"This moment reminds me that every effort, no matter how small it feels, has the potential to shape the future."
Watch the debate
Built with Shorthand