This Branch notes: 

• That migrant staff at the University of Leeds face substantial financial burdens from visa processes, including Skilled Worker Route (SWR) and Global Talent Visa (GTV) applications. 

• That reimbursed visa fees are currently treated as taxable income, meaning staff receive less than the amount paid. 

• That several Russell Group institutions, including UCL, fully reimburse visa‑related costs net of tax, ensuring staff are not left out of pocket. 

• That migrant staff form a minority within the branch, contributing to limited visibility of these issues. 

• That migrant staff have expressed the need for stronger community, advocacy, and awareness within UCU to address structural barriers. 

This Branch believes: 

• That no member should face a financial penalty due to the immigration status required for their employment. 

• That the University of Leeds should meet or exceed sector best practice for supporting international staff. 

• That equitable access to union support requires proactive promotion of migrant worker networks. 

• That UCU has a responsibility to challenge inequitable and discriminatory impacts of immigration policy on staff. 

This Branch resolves: 

• To call on the University to adopt a net‑of‑tax reimbursement policy for all visa‑related costs including NHS surcharges, in line with or exceeding UCL’s practice. 

• To raise this at JCU, formally requesting full‑value, post‑tax reimbursement. 

• To re‑advertise and actively promote the Migrant Members Working Group through branch communications. 

• To run at least one event per semester focused on migrant staff experiences, rights, and support. 

• To amplify migrant voices within the branch, including offering space for updates at committee and General Meetings. 

Original motion proposed by the branch committee. Moved by Andi Rylands, seconded by Dan Howdon. Proposed amendment by Aisha Walker, seconded by Andi Rylands, to add “including NHS surcharges” to the first bullet point. The amendment was carried. The motion was carried by the ordinary general meeting 3 March 2026.

This page was last updated on 15 September 2026