By Olakunle Agboola – Nigerians living in the United Kingdom have faced a variety of challenges in recent years as migration laws and policies have changed continuously. Nigerians in the UK have been profoundly affected by the shifting sands of immigration regulations, from uncertainty about residency status to the impact on family living apart and employment opportunities.
Stress and Anxiety
A major challenge for Nigerians in the UK is the pervasive uncertainty and anxiety surrounding their residency status. Nigerians are uncertain about their future in the country because of changes in immigration laws, including tighter eligibility requirements and increased enforcement measures.
This uncertainty has led to psychological and emotional distress, anxiety, and insecurity among individuals and their families. Nigerians living in the UK most especially those who came through student visas have been frustrated. This is due to their inability to cope with UK immigration legislation as they have continued exploring options of traveling back to Nigeria or other European countries.
Separation from Family
Nigerians in the UK also face difficulty navigating the complex and often restrictive process of family reunification. It is becoming increasingly challenging to bring family members to the UK due to changes in immigration rules, which include higher income requirements and stricter eligibility criteria.
The result is that many Nigerians will be forced to endure prolonged separations from their family, causing emotional stress and strain on family ties. This immigration law did not sit well with some Nigerians as they have continued leaving the UK to another country.
Economic Opportunity and Employment
Changing immigration laws and policies in the UK have also impacted Nigerians’ employment and economic prospects. Nigerians have experienced an increase in competition for skilled jobs due to restrictions on work visas, and uncertainty over residency status has made it more difficult for them to secure stable employment and advance in their careers.
Additionally, discrimination and prejudice in the workplace also exacerbate these challenges, impeding Nigerians’ integration and socioeconomic advancement.
Increasing legal and financial pressures
Nigerians living in the UK may also face significant legal and financial strains because of the complexity of immigration laws and regulations. It can be difficult for many individuals and families to maintain legal status in the country due to the financial burden of visa application fees and legal fees associated with challenging immigration decisions.
Living in the UK for the first five years can be extremely challenging. There is a high cost of visa renewal, paying for IELTS, National Health Service (NHS), and Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five to seven years of living in the UK. Coping with bills and increased fees in recent years has been so stressful for migrants living in the UK.
The Impact of Healthcare Fraud
Healthcare fraud perpetrated by some Nigerians. Pakistanis and Indians in the United Kingdom have gained growing attention in recent years. In addition to tarnishing Nigerian healthcare professionals’ reputations, this fraudulent activity also has tarnished the path for skilled workers in the healthcare sector to receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
There is a negative impact on legitimate applicants seeking a CoS for employment in the UK’s healthcare industry. More scrutiny and suspicion surrounding Nigerian applicants have made it more difficult for qualified and genuine healthcare professionals to find sponsorship and employment.
Perspectives for the future
Considering the challenges Nigerians living in the UK continue to face due to changing migration laws, advocacy, community support, and policy reform efforts must be prioritized. A greater level of inclusivity and diversity is needed to strengthen support networks for individuals and families affected by this illness.
Nigerians can work towards building a more equitable and welcoming society in the UK. In unison, they can navigate the shifting landscape of migration laws and create a brighter future for all Nigerians living in the UK.
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