Bloomberg Daybreak: Europe Edition EXCLUSIVE: How UK Visa Scams Squeeze Millions From Would-Be Care Workers
May 18, 2025
Discover the shocking exploitation within the UK's health and care worker visa system. Fraudsters are conning aspiring immigrants out of millions, leaving victims in desperate situations. Hear personal stories, like that of Mr. Brown, illustrating the human impact of these scams. The lack of effective government response and the complexities of investigating these crimes are alarming. Plus, learn about the UK government's controversial ban on overseas recruitment for care workers and the potential fallout for those already caught in these scams.
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Visa System Exploited by Scammers
- The UK health and care worker visa, introduced in 2020, helped address staffing shortages but opened exploitation risks.
- Scammers sold certificates of sponsorship, often fake, for tens of thousands of pounds, defrauding workers abroad.
Millions Lost from Visa Scams
- The true scale of the UK care worker visa scam is underestimated by authorities.
- Hundreds of victims report losing £8,000 to £10,000 each, totaling millions lost globally.
Mr. Brown Fights Visa Scams
- Mr. Brown, a Zimbabwean in the UK, exposed visa scammers on social media to protect victims.
- He faced threats, lost his NHS support worker job, but continues his fight with a new business.