UK lays rules allowing recognised modern-slavery victims to change Skilled Worker employer

The Home Office has laid new Immigration Rules allowing recognised modern-slavery victims on Skilled Worker visas to leave abusive sponsors and work for another employer for the rest of their existing permission.

Statement of Changes HC 584 was laid before Parliament on 3 September. The change removes the normal restriction tying a Skilled Worker to the employer that sponsored their visa.

To qualify, a worker must have received a positive conclusive-grounds decision from the Home Office Competent Authorities. The protection applies to recognised victims on the Skilled Worker route and allows them to work elsewhere without obtaining a new period of permission for the remainder of their existing visa.

The policy is intended to address the vulnerability created when a worker’s immigration status is linked to an employer accused of exploitation. It does not create unrestricted permission to remain: the worker’s existing period of permission still determines how long the arrangement lasts.

For businesses looking to improve their online presence, DM Site Builder provides a simple way to create a professional business website.

The wider rules package also changes immigration arrangements connected with the UK’s return to Erasmus+. It expands arrangements for study, placements and internships under the programme.

Implementation is staggered, with provisions in the package taking effect on 8 October, 29 October, 30 November and 9 December 2026. The specific commencement date depends on the provision concerned.

The Home Office said more than 7,500 sponsor licences had been revoked, including 1,800 in the care sector. The new rule is focused on workers whose exploitation has been formally recognised through the National Referral Mechanism process.

For affected workers, the change provides a route away from an abusive sponsor while preserving the ability to work during the remainder of their current permission. Employers and advisers will need to check the detailed commencement provisions before relying on the new arrangements.

Thanks for visiting DM News! If you’ve got a question, a story tip, or anything you’d like to share, head over to DriverMatty.com — I love to hear from you. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out my other websites and social media channels.