The UK Home Office failing to monitor whether foreign workers leave the country after their visas expire has sparked alarm among MPs. A damning report by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) reveals the department lacks basic data on visa overstays. This raises concerns about illegal work and exploitation.
The skilled worker visa system, introduced post-Brexit in 2020, has brought 1.18 million migrants to the UK. Yet the UK Home Office failing to analyze exit records means officials cannot confirm if visa holders depart when required. Instead, the department still relies on outdated airline passenger data, with no proper tracking since the scheme began.
Therefore, the report highlights “widespread evidence” of migrant workers trapped in debt bondage, excessive hours, and abusive conditions. Despite these risks, the Home Office has shown “little curiosity” about the system’s flaws. PAC chair Meg Hillier called the lack of enforcement “shocking,” urging immediate reforms.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper admitted the system “hasn’t been strong enough” but defended delays, stating change “doesn’t happen at the flick of a switch.” Plans include biometric workplace checks to verify legal status. However, critics argue progress is too slow.
The skilled worker route, expanded in 2022 to fill post-pandemic labor gaps, contributed to record net migration. The Home Office blames the previous government for “relaxed controls” but faces scrutiny over its own enforcement gaps. A spokesperson cited recent crackdowns, including stricter visa rules and care sector bans.
Migration Observatory director Dr. Madeleine Sumption warned the UK Home Office failing to assist migrants in transitioning jobs fairly has worsened exploitation. “There’s not huge transparency in how they handle this.”
With a new Immigration Whitepaper pledging lower migration and higher worker protections, the government insists it’s “fixing” the system. Yet without real-time exit checks or stronger labor oversight, the risk of abuse persists. This leaves both migrants and public trust in limbo.
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