Health and Care Worker visa holders can qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK after five years, unlike people on a ten year private and family life route, despite the fact they can be working in the same essential roles (e.g., healthcare assistants, and care workers).

Health and Care Worker visa holders are also exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge, unlike many people with private or family life visas. Children on private and family life visas may also be denied home fee status and can face international university fees, despite being raised in the UK. We urge the government to grant them all home fee status. Taken together, and considering the costs of renewing/extending visas, many families can face significant financial pressures.