Nigerians Risk Mass Deportation As UK Scraps Sponsorship Skilled Jobs

The UK’s immigration policy overhaul has sparked uncertainty among thousands of Nigerians living and working in the country. Over 100 skilled jobs have been removed from the list of roles eligible for sponsorship under the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) scheme.

The policy changes, effective July 22, aim to tighten immigration controls. Key reforms include increased salary thresholds for Skilled Worker and Health and Care visa holders. Certain professions are no longer eligible for sponsorship unless listed under the Temporary Shortage Occupation List.

Jobs in agriculture, logistics, hospitality, health, law enforcement, arts, and other professional fields are affected. Roles like youth workers, police officers, interior designers, and care supervisors are no longer eligible for sponsorship.

The minimum salary for most skilled roles has risen to £41,700, while health and care positions remain at £25,600 with certain conditions. Employers must ensure employees receive this amount after deductions.

Many Nigerians on time-bound visas linked to their current employers face deportation risks once their sponsorships expire. Without valid visas, they may become illegal immigrants.

Kayode Alabi, a UK-based travel consultant, notes that Nigerians whose jobs were removed from CoS eligibility will struggle to find new employment. Their visas won’t be renewed, putting them at risk of deportation.

The new regulations have triggered widespread anxiety among Nigerians in the UK. Many are uncertain about their fate, especially those whose jobs were delisted.

Some Nigerian workers expressed concerns about the uncertainty they face. One worker, Banjo Fola, said his visa will expire soon, and his employer can’t afford the new salary threshold.

Another affected worker may be forced to return to Nigeria after her current sponsorship expires in August. A third Nigerian echoed similar fears, citing the new rules’ impact on their plans to stay in the UK.

The sharp rise in salary thresholds for Skilled Worker visas is a major concern. Many Nigerians, especially in healthcare and IT, may face fewer job offers unless UK employers adjust pay scales.

Unless alternative employment options emerge, the UK may lose skilled Nigerian professionals to other countries with more favorable migration policies.

A University of Ibadan student, Eniola, shared how the new rules have disrupted her mother’s life in the UK. Her mother lost her job due to the delisting and is uncertain about finding new employment.