Changes to the UK’s immigration and Skilled Worker Visa rules are putting hundreds of workers—including Nigerians in key transport and public service roles—at risk of losing their right to stay.
Transport for London (TfL) employees recently delivered a petition to Downing Street, urging the government to review visa restrictions that could force dozens of long-term foreign staff out of the country.
What’s Happening
The UK government has increased the skill and salary thresholds for foreign workers and removed several transport and public sector jobs from the list of eligible “skilled worker” roles.
This means that workers—many of whom have been legally employed for years under the Skilled Worker Visa—may no longer qualify to extend their stay.
The RMT Union is demanding “immediate transitional protection” for 63 affected TfL employees and hundreds more across the UK.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed “deep disappointment” over the decision, while the Home Office maintained that “net migration must come down.”
“We’ve Built Our Lives Here”
Some affected workers—many of them from Nigeria and other Commonwealth countries—say they’ve built their lives, families, and futures in the UK.
One TfL staff member told BBC Politics London:
“I came to the UK on a student visa, worked hard, paid my taxes, and followed every rule. Now I’m being told I have to leave. It’s cruel. The UK is home for us now.”
TfL confirmed that at least 61 employee visas are set to expire in the next 12 weeks, with unions warning that the true number could be higher—possibly up to 300.
Wider Impact Across the UK
This issue isn’t limited to TfL. The Prison Officers’ Association (POA) warned earlier this year that more than **1,000 prison staff—many from African nations including Nigeria—**could lose their right to work due to similar visa reforms.
Mark Fairhurst, POA National Chair, called the move “scandalous and rushed,” saying:
“We need the staff they’re pushing out. These are people who kept the system running during tough times.”
What Nigerians in the UK Should Know
- The Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold is rising (to around £41,700–£49,000, depending on role).
- Job roles below the new skill level may no longer qualify for visa sponsorship.
- If your visa is due for renewal, check your job’s eligibility and speak to your HR or immigration adviser immediately.
- Those affected should document their work contributions and seek legal advice early.
Final Word
Naija UK Connect urges Nigerians in the UK to stay informed, especially those working in public service, healthcare, logistics, and transport sectors. These rule changes could affect your right to live and work in the UK—but early action can help protect your stay.
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