Migrant workers protest proposed UK visa settlement reforms

More than 400 migrant workers and supporters held a protest in Liverpool outside the Labour Party conference to oppose proposed changes to the United Kingdom’s immigration and settlement rules. Organized by the trade union UNISON as part of its Fair Visa Campaign, demonstrators symbolically wore chains and sang the song ‘Jailer’ by Nigerian artist Asa to protest themes of oppression.

The protest targets plans from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood that would extend the qualifying period for permanent settlement from five years to 15 years for certain groups, including NHS employees, care staff, and lower-paid public service workers. UNISON argues that the current visa rules can tie workers to specific employers, potentially leaving them vulnerable to exploitation if they fear that leaving a workplace could jeopardize their right to remain in the country.

UNISON is calling for the government to maintain the five-year qualifying period for skilled workers and is advocating for a sector-wide visa sponsorship system for social care workers to reduce worker vulnerability.