The government’s proposal to extend the qualifying period for permanent settlement from five to 10 years would represent a betrayal of internationally educated nurses who came to the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to the Royal College of Nursing (RCN). Professor Nicola Ranger, RCN general secretary and chief executive, said: ‘Many of our colleagues who are likely to be affected came to the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the government is proposing to extend the qualifying period to 10 years. The government’s plan also includes a 15-year route to settlement for nursing support staff who work in roles below degree level. In its report, the RCN argues that settlement rights are critical for workforce retention, as well as the financial security, family stability and career progression of nurses.