Transport of London staff face deportation under new visa rules

In light of recent rule changes regarding visa sponsorship qualifications, a significant number of foreign employees working for Transport for London (TfL) are at risk of deportation. The alterations to salary thresholds and the removal of certain transport roles from the eligible list have left more than 60 skilled worker visa holders potentially facing expulsion from the UK. TfL has stated that they are actively assisting affected employees in exploring alternative avenues to continue working in the country and providing support wherever possible.

London Assembly members have criticized the move, labeling it as “unfair and short-sighted”. However, the Home Office defended its actions, citing its immigration white paper’s objective to restore order and integrity to the immigration system. Under the new approach, all sectors are required to implement workforce strategies focused on training British workers or risk losing access to the immigration system, aiming to reduce reliance on lower-skilled international recruitment.

The changes came into effect on 22 July and are expected to remain in place until at least the end of 2026. Many of the affected workers initially secured positions through graduate visa schemes with the intention of transitioning into skilled worker roles. The RMT union revealed that these employees now face uncertain futures due to the increased salary thresholds. RMT general secretary, Eddie Dempsey, expressed concern over the potential impact on workers’ lives and the resulting employment gaps within London Underground.

An anonymous employee at risk of deportation emphasized the toll the news has taken on themselves and their family, questioning the fairness of the situation. Leaders within the London Assembly, including Hina Bokhari and Caroline Russell, have condemned the deportations as unjust and detrimental to London’s essential workforce. The government’s decision to implement these changes has sparked outrage and calls for a reconsideration of policies that threaten to destabilize the capital’s transport services

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More