STORY
The Government has announced changes to the Immigration Rules which will allow Skilled Worker visa holders who are recognised as victims of modern slavery to take employment in any occupation for the remainder of their existing visa. Migration and Citizenship Minister Jo White said the measure was intended to prevent victims remaining dependent upon employers who had exploited them and encourage people to report abuse. She told Parliament that UK Visas and Immigration had revoked more than 7,500 sponsor licences, including 1,800 in the care sector.
Further changes will prepare the immigration system for the UK’s return to the Erasmus+ programme. State funded schools and academies will be permitted to host Erasmus+ participants for study placements lasting up to six months, while visitors will be able to attend workshops, debates and skills competitions. Erasmus+ participants will also be permitted to undertake courses, training, traineeships and coaching assignments at eligible organisations.
The Student route will be amended to accommodate Erasmus+ courses which do not lead to an approved qualification and to provide greater flexibility for programmes containing work placements. State funded schools and academies will be able to obtain sponsor licences for incoming Erasmus+ students, while a new Government Authorised Exchange scheme will support eligible placements and internships. The modern slavery and Erasmus+ provisions are due to take effect on 8 October 2026, with other changes in the wider package being introduced on later dates.