Unions come together to protest visa rule changes threatening migrant workers in rail and DWP

The demonstration follows the government’s announcement on 1 July 2025 of new immigration regulations, which came into force just three weeks later on 22 July. The changes significantly narrowed the list of occupations eligible for sponsorship under the skilled worker visa, excluding any role not classified at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) Level 6—equivalent to graduate level—unless it appears on the shortage occupation list.

Among the 180 occupations removed from eligibility is Rail Travel Assistant, a role held by many RMT members currently working in the UK on graduate visas. These workers had expected to transition to skilled worker visas but now face deportation when their current visas expire. The abrupt nature of the changes has left many in a state of uncertainty, with no clear pathway to remain in the UK despite having worked in essential roles for months or even years.

The DWP group in PCS has also been campaigning against the impact on our own members in the DWP, where migrant workers in frontline roles have similarly found themselves excluded from visa sponsorship. Many of these workers were recruited during the pandemic to support vital public services, including benefits processing and customer support for vulnerable claimants. Now, despite their contributions, they are being told they must leave the UK when their graduate visas expire.

Both unions argue that the changes were rushed through without proper scrutiny, consultation, or transitional arrangements. PCS warns that the decision will exacerbate staffing shortages and skills gaps across public services, particularly in departments already struggling with recruitment and retention. RMT has raised similar concerns about the impact on the transport sector, where migrant workers play a crucial role in maintaining day-to-day operations.

PCS and RMT are calling for the government to pause the implementation of the new visa rules and to conduct a full review and consultation with trade unions and affected workers. They are demanding urgent protection for those already employed in roles that were eligible prior to the changes, and for fairer transition arrangements that reflect the contributions these workers have made to UK society.

How to get involved

• The demonstration will take place at the Home Office, 2 Marsham Street, London SW1P 4DF at 8am on Wednesday 17 September and is expected to draw support from across the labour movement. This is not just about immigration policy—it’s about fairness, dignity, and the right of workers to build stable lives in the UK. PCS are urging members, to attend and show solidarity with those facing unjust removal under the new rules.
• Write to your MP using our e-action bringing this issue to their attention.

Read more from PCS

• When unfair visa rules uproot lives
• Visa income changes – DWP and Home Office fail to protect staff