Migrant workers who have been victims of modern slavery are to be permitted to work in any occupation for the remaining duration of their visa, following a change to the Skilled Worker visa sponsorship system, it has been announced.
In a statement from the Home Office to the House of Commons by Jo White, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Migration and Citizenship, it was announced that these changes were part of a crackdown on rogue employers designed to support those who have entered the UK in good faith to work but who have experienced exploitation or enslavement.
The statement revealed that in the current crackdown, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has already revoked more than 7,500 sponsor licenses, including 1,800 in the care sector alone.
Jo White said:
The sponsorship system is designed to ensure overseas recruits have a genuine job to come to, will be paid appropriately, and can enjoy their employment rights. However, we have seen instances of Skilled Worker visa holders who entered the UK in good faith, complied with the terms of their visa, and have experienced exploitation. This is simply unacceptable.
These changes to the Immigration Rules were laid before Parliament on 3 September 2026 and will come into effect on 8 October 2026.
