Overview

This bill proposes to exempt NHS clinical staff from paying immigration and nationality fees under the Immigration Act 2014. The exemption will apply to those who have lawfully resided in the UK for at least five years and worked for the NHS in a clinical capacity for three consecutive years. However, fees become payable if the NHS employment ends within three years of the exemption being granted.

Description

The Immigration and Nationality Fees (Exemption for NHS Clinical Staff) Bill aims to amend the Immigration Act 2014. Specifically, it mandates the Secretary of State to create regulations exempting eligible NHS clinical staff from fees associated with immigration and nationality applications.

Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the exemption, applicants must meet two conditions:

• Lawful UK residence for a minimum of five years.
• Unbroken employment in a clinical role within the NHS for at least three years.

Conditional Exemption: The exemption is conditional. If the applicant leaves their NHS employment within three years of the application's success, the fees become due.

Parliamentary Approval: Any regulations created under this bill require approval from both Houses of Parliament before they can be enacted.

Geographic Extent: The bill applies across the UK: England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to reduce government income from immigration and nationality fees. The exact financial impact is difficult to quantify without knowing the number of eligible applicants and the fees involved. The bill will result in a net decrease in government revenue.

Groups Affected

• NHS Clinical Staff: This group will benefit directly, potentially saving them significant costs associated with immigration and nationality applications.
• UK Government: Will experience a reduction in revenue from immigration and nationality fees.
• Immigration and Nationality Application System: Will require modification to accommodate the new exemption.

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