A recent survey indicates that up to **50,000 nurses** could consider leaving the United Kingdom due to proposed immigration reforms, which are seen as a potential catalyst for a significant crisis in the National Health Service (NHS). The survey, conducted by the **Royal College of Nursing (RCN)**, raises alarms about the impact of these changes on the already strained healthcare system.
The government’s immigration proposals aim to restrict net migration by extending the waiting period for migrants to apply for settled status from five to **ten years**. The plans, which were announced by **Keir Starmer**, also include raising the skill requirements for foreign workers to degree level and increasing the English language proficiency standards required for various visa types, including those for dependents. Critics argue that these measures are politically motivated, particularly as they come in response to the rise of the **Reform UK** party, led by **Nigel Farage**.
Nursing leaders have condemned the proposals as “immoral,” arguing that they undermine the contributions of skilled migrants. They warn that a mass departure of nurses would jeopardize patient safety and hinder efforts to alleviate waiting times for treatment. The NHS is already grappling with escalating demand for care amid persistent staffing shortages.
According to the RCN survey, which involved more than **5,000** migrant nursing staff, nearly **60%** of those without Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) indicated that the proposed changes are “very likely” to affect their decision to stay in the UK. This suggests that more than **46,000** nurses could permanently exit the UK if the changes are implemented.
Prof **Nicola Ranger**, the general secretary and chief executive of the RCN, emphasized the dangers of these proposals. She stated, “These proposals are not just immoral; they would be dangerous for our patients. No minister who has any interest in the success of our health and social care system would press ahead with extending the qualifying period for ILR.” She called for the government to abandon these plans, warning that they risk exacerbating the workforce crisis and threatening patient safety.
The implications of the proposed changes extend beyond healthcare. Migrant workers across various sectors would face challenges under the new rules. With more than **200,000** internationally educated nurses currently contributing to the UK workforce, representing about **25%** of the total **794,000** nursing staff, the NHS is particularly vulnerable to these shifts. Many of these nurses arrived in the UK during the **Covid-19** pandemic, often at significant personal risk.
The RCN’s findings reveal deep concern among migrant nursing staff. Over **53%** of respondents expressed extreme anxiety about their financial security, while **52%** were very concerned about the impact on their families. Furthermore, **49%** indicated that their career prospects were at risk. The proposed changes could deter future foreign workers from migrating to the UK, with only **11%** of survey respondents stating they would still consider moving to the UK if the settlement route took ten years.
In light of the ongoing financial burden, the RCN is also urging the government to reduce the application fee for ILR, which currently stands at **£3,029** per person, despite an estimated processing cost of **£523**. This fee has increased significantly from **£155** in 2003, further complicating the situation for many migrant workers.
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for the UK government acknowledged the critical role of foreign healthcare workers, stating that they “bring compassion, deliver high-quality care and strengthen our health service.” However, the government maintains that net migration must be reduced. The spokesperson pointed out that under the proposed settlement model, individuals might still be able to reduce the qualifying period for settlement based on their contributions to the UK economy and society.
The government plans to launch a public consultation regarding these immigration proposals shortly, urging healthcare professionals to participate in the discussions. The outcome of this consultation may significantly shape the future landscape of the NHS and its workforce, especially concerning the retention of international nursing staff.
