The number of foreign workers applying for UK visas has fallen to its lowest level in years amid tougher immigration rules.
In January 2024, the Home Office made 4,100 applications for skilled worker visas, the lowest number since January 2022.
The number of applications for health and healthcare worker visas also fell sharply by 1,900 applications, down from around 10,000 in November 2019. In addition, 3,800 applications were granted to bring dependents to the UK.
In August 2023, applications for foreign doctors, nurses and other health and senior social workers reached a record high of 18,300.
As visa applications for foreign workers plummet, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycock has admitted he will rely on foreign builders to help the country’s housing crisis.
However, Pennycock said the government would not relax visa restrictions to meet the government’s target of 1.5 million new homes. “We don’t want to ease restrictions, but we will rely on some of the changes made by the previous government to some foreign workers in this space,” he said.
In addition, the new government announced the need to train and develop local talent by allocating €140 million to establish training centers throughout the country. “We need to do more to train and empower people to work in this [construction] industry.” “If we don’t take steps to tackle this problem, we won’t reach the target of 1.5 million new homes.”
