DOCTORS, nurses and paramedics from abroad are to have their visas extended so they can "focus on fighting coronavirus".
The extension will apply to around 2,800 migrant health professionals who are working for the NHS and have UK work visas which are due to expire before October 1.
They will be renewed automatically for a year free of charge so they can remain working in the country, the Home Office said.
MORE NEWS:
- Permission refused for holiday let advertised on Airbnb
- Gwent MPs call for government to help charities during coronavirus
- Patients must queue for first checks outside Royal Gwent A&E
The changes will also apply to their family members.
Restrictions have also been lifted on how many hours international student doctors and nurses can work for the NHS per week, according to an announcement on Tuesday.
Deadlines for registered overseas nurses to pass skills tests will also be extended so they have more time to take exams while working on the front line.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "Doctors, nurses and paramedics from all over the world are playing a leading role in the NHS's efforts to tackle coronavirus and save lives. We owe them a great deal of gratitude for all that they do.
"I don't want them distracted by the visa process.
"That is why I have automatically extended their visas - free of charge - for a further year."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here