Petition Keep 5-year ILR for Health and Care visa holders to protect the NHS
Healthcare professionals have been on the frontline during national crises & ensuring the continued functioning of vital services. We think extending ILR timeline undermines their contributions. Instead keep the ILR requirement and reduce the workforce shortage and avoid uncertainty on their future.
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The UK health and care system relies heavily on international doctors and nurses who dedicate their skills and years of service to supporting patients across the country. We ask the Government to keep the required residence period for ILR for doctors and nurses for 5 years and exempt from 10-year rule. This would recognise their vital contribution to the National Health Service, help retain skilled healthcare professionals, and strengthen workforce stability in the UK’s health sector.
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Related activity
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Reforms to the settlement system: Share your views with the Government
The Government has recently launched a public consultation on reforming the current settlement system.
Settlement refers to a person’s right to live in the UK permanently without any immigration restrictions. It is also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Respond to the consultation by 11.59pm on 12 February 2026.
The consultation includes questions on the Government's proposed Earned Settlement framework.
More information
The consultation is being run by the Home Office. The Home Office is the lead government department for immigration and passports, drugs policy, crime, counter-terrorism and police.
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