Travel disruptions for NHS staff

We understand this may be a stressful and uncertain time for staff unable to travel due to the evolving conflict in the Middle East. Many staff members may have been stranded as airspace closures and airport shutdowns continue to disrupt international travel.

At present, there is no national guidance on how employers should process leave for staff who are stuck abroad due to the conflict‑related travel disruptions. Therefore, organisations will need to rely on their existing leave policies.

Recommended employer actions:

Maintain regular contact with affected staff

Check in frequently to understand their situation, wellbeing, and estimated return timelines where known.

Review and apply relevant internal policies

Employers should use any existing:

• travel disruption policies

• special leave policies (paid or unpaid)

• remote working options

• annual leave 

• time‑off‑in‑lieu. 

Affected staff on a visa

If the affected member of staff is currently on a visa, and the sponsor wishes to continue sponsoring them, employers need to report the absence and the reason on the Sponsor Management System. The UK Visas and Immigration will need to be aware of the absence and reason for future salary checks.

If you have any queries, please email us.