Care home operators across Wales have warned that proposed changes to UK care visa rules could force widespread closures, as the sector faces a potential exodus of overseas workers.
A new UK government white paper suggests care workers on sponsored visas will need to remain in the UK for 10 years before becoming eligible for indefinite leave to remain—a significant increase from the current five-year requirement.
The proposal, unveiled by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, is part of a broader immigration reform plan aimed at reducing net migration and what he described as the UK becoming an “island of strangers.”
But for thousands of foreign care workers, the change represents a devastating blow to their futures. Folake, a Nigerian carer living in Rhondda Cynon Taf, said the announcement has shattered her dreams of settling in the UK.
“It’s shocking and depressing,” she said. “We came with hope to work and build a better life. Now it feels like a betrayal.”
Thousands of Jobs at Risk in Welsh Care Sector
According to Social Care Cymru, around 88,000 people are employed in Wales’ care sector, with up to 20% coming from overseas. Companies like Oakville Care Homes—where 65% of staff are foreign workers—say the rule change could severely disrupt services.
Mahesh Patel, general manager at Oakville, said, “I wouldn’t be surprised if many care homes eventually close. It’s going to have a drastic effect on local health services and authorities.”
Patel added that some staff have been in tears over the news, prompting the company to explore urgent recruitment efforts, including new banner campaigns at its facilities.
Families Face Uncertain Futures
Mukesh, an Indian national living in Cardiff, secured a sponsorship visa to work in care after arriving as a dependent of his student wife. His visa is due for renewal in September.
“We did everything right—paid taxes, followed the rules—but now it feels like we’re being punished,” he said.
Care workers and employers alike argue the proposal undermines the recruitment and retention of skilled staff, many of whom are deeply integrated into their communities.
Industry-Wide Alarm Over Recruitment Impact
The Caron Group, which operates 18 care homes, said over 50% of its staff are on sponsorship visas. Ely Court Care Home in Cardiff is also concerned about the impact on resident services.
Rebecca Roberts, general manager at Ely Court, warned that changing employment routes would make it harder to hire and keep the staff needed for high-quality care.
“We’re not just losing numbers—we’re losing experience and dedication,” she said. “This will ripple across the entire care sector.”
While the UK government has defended the policy as part of necessary reforms, the Welsh government confirmed it is still reviewing the immigration white paper and its potential effects on all sectors, including social care.
