Home Office Sends Departure Letters to Children of Care Workers
Recent reports show the Home Office issuing letters to children as young as five, instructing them to leave the UK despite parental visa permissions. The notices primarily affect families of care workers whose visas previously allowed dependents. Figures indicate these communications have reached multiple households across the country.
Home Office Issues Notices to Young Dependents
Reports indicate that the Home Office has sent formal letters to children as young as five who hold legal status in the UK. These notices direct the recipients to leave the country, even in cases where parents have received permission to remain.
Important Caveats
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Outcomes depend on individual circumstances and current rules.
The letters have been sent to families where parents hold care worker visas. Until March 2024, these visas generally permitted the inclusion of partners and children as dependents.
Examples from Affected Families
- One family in Perth, Scotland received notices for children aged five and eight.
- A separate letter was issued to a woman six months pregnant, instructing her to leave her husband in the UK.
- Recipients have expressed shock, noting that the children are settled in school and the local community.
Visa Context
According to the source, the affected parents often hold qualifications such as degrees in chemistry and related fields from their home countries.
Policy Reminder
The rules state that visa conditions can change, and notifications may be issued when eligibility criteria are reviewed.
Broader Migration Trends
Separate data shows net migration falling to 171,000 in 2025, the lowest level since 2012 excluding pandemic years. This decline follows policy adjustments affecting worker and student dependent visas.
Why are children receiving these letters?
The rules state that dependent permissions can be reviewed when the main visa holder's status changes or when policy updates occur.
Do all care worker families receive such notices?
Notices appear limited to specific cases where dependent eligibility has been reassessed following earlier rule changes.
Where can families find official information?
According to the source, individuals should refer directly to Home Office communications and published guidance.
The source material originates from reporting by The Guardian on 1 June 2026.