The Home Office recently announced Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules (HC 584), published on 3 September 2026. Among other updates, these rules introduce vital protections for Skilled Workers facing exploitation and modern slavery in the UK.
What is changing? From 8 October 2026, Skilled Workers who have been referred to the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) and receive a positive “Conclusive Grounds” decision during their most recent permission will have greater employment freedom.
The Home Office can now vary their visa conditions to allow them to take on almost any work for the remainder of their visa. This includes:
- Working for any employer (without needing a new sponsor)
- Self-employment
- Voluntary work
Note: Working as a professional sportsperson or sports coach remains strictly prohibited.
Why are these changes being made? Currently, Skilled Workers are tied to a specific job with a specific sponsoring company. If an employer acts in a discriminatory or exploitative manner, or breaches employment law, workers are often hesitant to report it for fear of losing their jobs—and their right to live in the UK.
Previously, if a Skilled Worker lost their job or their sponsor lost their licence, they were given just 60 days to find a new sponsor before facing removal or becoming an illegal overstayer. This new measure separates a victim’s immigration status from their exploitative sponsor, reducing the dependency that enables abuse.
What is the National Referral Mechanism (NRM)? The NRM is the UK’s official framework for identifying and supporting potential victims of modern slavery, human trafficking, and exploitation.
You cannot self-refer to the NRM. You must first explain your situation to an official “First Responder” organisation—such as the police, the Home Office, or designated charities like the Salvation Army. If they suspect you are a victim, they will refer you to the NRM. You will then receive a “Reasonable Grounds” decision, which grants you temporary protection, support, and housing.
What is a Conclusive Grounds decision? Following the initial reasonable grounds decision, the NRM will undertake a full, rigorous assessment using all available evidence. If the outcome is positive, this is a “Conclusive Grounds” decision, meaning it has been formally determined on the balance of probabilities that you are a victim of modern slavery. This positive decision triggers the new visa condition changes.
Further Information Are you a Skilled Worker seeking to understand your options, change employers, or move to a new visa route? Please contact our team on 0208 995 3556 and we can assist you.