Unravelling The Myths: How Health Workers From Red List Countries Can Still Apply To Work In The UK

As a UK-based law firm, we understand the confusion surrounding recent reports that Ghana and Nigeria have been placed on a “red list” of countries from which health workers cannot migrate to the UK to work. We would like to clarify that these reports are incorrect, and we aim to provide you with the necessary information to help you understand the situation.

In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) published a Safeguard List that prohibited the “active recruitment” of health workers from certain countries, including Ghana and Nigeria. This list is based on the WHO’s 2010 Global Code of Practice, and it is voluntary. However, despite the UK having domesticated the code, it has been lax in enforcing it until recently.

In January 2023, WHO reaffirmed the list, which increased the pressure on the UK to comply and stop recruiting health workers from these countries. The ban on active recruitment means that employment agencies cannot seek to attract health workers from these countries. However, it is important to note that health workers in these countries are not barred from migrating to the UK; they can still apply for positions through other channels.

The UK has a long-standing tradition of attracting and recruiting health workers from all over the world. This includes health workers from Ghana and Nigeria, who have made significant contributions to the UK’s healthcare system. The ban on active recruitment is aimed at preventing the exploitation of health workers from these countries and protecting their rights.

It is essential to understand that health workers from Red List countries can apply to be recruited in the UK. However, they cannot be actively recruited by employment agencies. It is important to note that the UK government has introduced measures to improve recruitment practices and ensure that health workers from these countries are not exploited.

In conclusion, health workers in Red List countries can still apply to work in the UK. The ban on active recruitment is aimed at protecting the rights of health workers and preventing their exploitation. The UK is committed to ensuring that its healthcare system remains diverse and that it continues to attract the best talent from around the world.

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Don’t let complex immigration rules stand in the way of your entrepreneurial dreams or career aspirations. Contact Kings Court Law today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you achieve success through the UK self-sponsorship route.

Call us at 02080883088, email us at office@kingscourtlaw.com, or visit our office at 400 Pavillion Drive, Northampton, NN4 7PA. Let us be your partners in navigating the path to success in the United Kingdom.