The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has urged the UK government to reconsider its new immigration and visa rules, warning that the latest policy changes could leave hundreds of Transport for London (TfL) employees uncertain about their future in the country.
According to the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association (TSSA), as many as 300 TfL workers could be at risk of deportation following the recent updates to the Skilled Worker Visa system.
What’s Changing with the UK Visa Rules?
In July 2025, the UK government rolled out new visa policies that raised the minimum salary requirement for sponsorship to £41,700 per year, up from lower thresholds previously in place.
At the same time, certain transport-related jobs were removed from the official “skilled worker” list, meaning that roles like customer service assistants and station trainees may no longer qualify for sponsorship.
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This change hit Transport for London particularly hard, since entry-level TfL salaries typically start around £31,000 for graduates, with trainee station staff earning between £35,300 and £41,800, just below or barely meeting the new threshold.
Mayor Sadiq Khan: “Our Workers Are Left in Limbo”
During a London Assembly meeting on October 9, Mayor Khan said the new rules have left many of TfL’s foreign workers “in limbo”, unsure if they can remain in the UK.
He revealed that Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, has formally written to the UK Migration Minister, urging the government to pause the implementation of the new measures and protect existing TfL staff.
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“TfL workers are unclear about whether they can stay in the UK and continue their important work,” Khan said. “These changes are unfair and could inhibit TfL’s ability to function effectively.”
We’re Moving the Goalposts
Khan accused the government of “moving the goalposts”, arguing that workers who followed all the legal steps to live and work in the UK are now being punished for policy shifts outside their control.
At the same meeting, Caroline Russell, leader of the Green Party in the London Assembly, shared personal stories from affected TfL employees, including one worker expecting her first child, who now fears being forced to leave the UK before giving birth.
“These are people who’ve invested everything, money, time, and skills to build a life here,” Russell said. “Now they’re being told they no longer have a place. It’s a heartbreaking betrayal.”
Unions Back the Mayor’s Call
Both major transport unions, the RMT and TSSA, have expressed deep concern.
Eddie Dempsey, General Secretary of the RMT, called the situation “needless uncertainty,” adding that transport workers who were hired under clear visa terms should not be punished by shifting policies.
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He noted that at least 63 RMT members working with the London Underground could face deportation as early as November.
Meanwhile, TSSA General Secretary Maryam Eslamdoust estimated the total number of affected workers could reach 300, many of whom hold skilled worker or graduate visas and currently work as customer service assistants in London’s Tube stations.
“These workers are essential to keeping London moving,” Dempsey added. “They deserve clarity and security, not confusion and fear.”
What TfL Is Doing to Help
A spokesperson for Transport for London said the agency is actively supporting staff who may be impacted by the new rules.
“We are working with all colleagues affected by these changes to understand whether alternative visa routes are available and to support them where possible,” the spokesperson said.
Why This Matters
The situation highlights how policy changes in visa thresholds can deeply affect real people, not just statistics on paper. For London, a city that relies heavily on international workers in sectors like transport, healthcare, and hospitality, the ripple effects could be significant.
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For many immigrants, the UK’s evolving visa landscape serves as a reminder of how fragile legal residency can be, even for those who’ve lived and worked in the country for years.
Takeaway for Immigrants and Aspiring Workers
If you’re planning to work or study in the UK, it’s crucial to:
Keep track of official UK government immigration updates (via gov.uk).
Check the current Skilled Worker Visa salary list before applying for roles.
Consult a qualified immigration adviser if your visa category might be affected by new salary thresholds.
Policy changes can happen suddenly, and staying informed is your best protection.
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Disclaimer
This article is a rewritten summary of publicly available news for educational and informational purposes only. It does not represent official UK government communication, nor does it offer immigration or legal advice. Readers are encouraged to verify details through official UK Home Office sources before making any visa-related decisions.