Full Breakdown
London Mayor Calls for Reassessment of Immigration Rules Impacting Transport Workers
10/12/2025, 5:11:49 AM
Core Event: Visa Policy Changes Affecting Transport for London Staff
In response to recent changes in UK immigration rules, London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has urged the government to pause these measures, which could jeopardize the employment status of up to 300 Transport for London (TfL) staff. The new visa regulations, implemented on July 22, 2025, raised the salary threshold for visa sponsorship to £41,700 annually and removed certain transport roles from the "skilled worker" list. This has left many TfL employees uncertain about their ability to remain in the UK.
Background & Context: Recent Changes to Immigration Policy
The alterations to the visa policy are part of the UK government's broader immigration strategy outlined in the "Restoring Control over the Immigration System" white paper. These changes aim to reduce reliance on lower-skilled international recruitment and are seen by critics as detrimental to essential services like public transport.
Key Figures & Groups: Voices of Concern
Sir Sadiq Khan highlighted the distress caused by the new rules, stating that TfL staff are "in limbo" regarding their immigration status. The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) and the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) unions have voiced their concerns, with TSSA General Secretary Maryam Eslamdoust estimating that as many as 300 TfL employees could be affected. RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey emphasized that these workers are vital to London's transport system.
Official Statements & Responses
In a recent assembly meeting, Khan criticized the government for "moving the goalposts," asserting that the changes inhibit TfL's operational capabilities. The Home Office has stated that the immigration white paper aims to "restore order" to the immigration system. A TfL spokesperson confirmed that they are working with affected employees to explore alternative routes for remaining in the UK.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns from Unions and Workers
Critics, including union leaders, argue that the new visa rules create "needless uncertainty" for workers who have fulfilled their visa obligations. Caroline Russell, leader of the Green Party in the London Assembly, shared a poignant account of a TfL worker facing anxiety about their future, highlighting the emotional toll of the policy changes.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps: Discrepancies in Impact Estimates
While the TSSA estimates that 300 TfL staff could be at risk, the RMT has reported that 63 of its members working for London Underground are facing removal as early as November. These differing figures underscore the uncertainty surrounding the full impact of the new immigration rules.
What's Next: Potential Government Response
The Home Office has indicated it will respond to Khan's request for a pause in the new visa rules. The outcome of this response could significantly affect the job security of TfL staff and the operational capacity of London's transport system.
Verbatim Quotes
“unclear about whether they can stay in the UK and continue the important work they do for us” — Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
“'Needless uncertainty' Eddie Dempsey, general secretary of the RMT union, welcomed the mayor's intervention, adding: "Transport workers who were hired under clear visa arrangements are facing needless uncertainty which should have been avoided.” — Eddie Dempsey, General Secretary of the RMT
“It's a complete betrayal of the promise they were given.” — Caroline Russell, Leader of the Green Party in London Assembly
