The Digest:
The United Kingdom has granted a temporary visa exemption for foreign prison workers, a decision that brings significant relief to thousands of overseas recruits, particularly from Nigeria. According to reports, the policy shift follows urgent warnings that strict new salary thresholds would destabilize the nation's prison system, which relies heavily on international staff.
Key Points:
- The UK has temporarily exempted foreign prison officers from new visa rules requiring a minimum salary of £41,700.
- The exemption, valid until the end of 2026, lowers the threshold to £33,400 to retain experienced staff.
- The change came after warnings that over 2,500 overseas recruits could be lost, creating a "catastrophic" staffing crisis.
- Nigerian nationals represent the largest group of foreign prison workers in the UK, with 769 recruited in 2024.
- UK prisons have actively sponsored visas for overseas workers to address shortages of British candidates.
- The Justice Ministry stated the adjustment ensures prisons can operate safely with adequate staffing levels.
- The exemption applies to current workers and will help maintain stability in the penal system.
Sources: The Cable
