Skilled Workers recognised as modern slavery victims can work for any employer
Published Checked by Edward Owusu
At a glance
What changed
A new Immigration Rule, SW 18.3, lets the Home Office lift the usual job restriction for a Skilled Worker who has a positive Conclusive Grounds decision through the National Referral Mechanism. Their conditions can be changed so that any work is allowed, including self-employment and voluntary work, for the rest of their current permission. The only work still excluded is as a professional sportsperson or sports coach. The government says the aim is to let victims leave abusive sponsors without risking their immigration status.
Who it affects
People on a Skilled Worker visa, including the Health and Care Worker visa, who have been referred into the National Referral Mechanism and received a positive Conclusive Grounds decision during their most recent permission. The government named care workers as one of the groups it expects to benefit.
When it starts
The rule took effect on 8 October 2026, and the Home Office announced it on 9 October 2026.
What it does not change
It does not extend the visa: the wider work rights last only until the current permission ends. The no recourse to public funds condition stays in place. The rule says conditions may be amended, so the change is not described as automatic.