Representatives at the BMA’s Annual Representative Meeting in Brighton have today backed a motion¹ calling for the relaxation of Adult Dependent Relative visa rules.

Commenting after the motion passed, Dr Kitty Mohan, BMA international committee chair, said: 

“Internationally-qualified staff make an invaluable contribution to the NHS and the health of the nation, bringing with them expertise and knowledge.

“We owe it to those people who have travelled to the UK to give their all to the NHS to be compassionate and accommodating in allowing them to bring their elderly parents here when they need family members close by. Not only is this the right thing to do, it would prevent talented doctors and colleagues being forced to frequently take time away from the NHS to travel to see their parents, or even in the worst-case scenario leave the UK entirely– losing expert clinicians when we can least afford to. 

“The BMA has been working for some time to push for a change to visa rules that can leave overseas doctors facing the unenviable choice between caring for their own family members or their patients, and with this continued backing from the ARM we will continue campaigning on this important issue on behalf of our international colleagues.”

Ends

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives. 

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1. The full wording of the motion is as below: 
 

Motion by EAST AND NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE DIVISION:
That this meeting
calls upon the BMA to continue its pressure on the home office in changing the stringent requirements of Adult Dependent Relative visa.