Making legal migrants wait longer before settling permanently in the UK would have a “profoundly negative impact” on Scotland’s care sector, it has been claimed.

Scottish Care, which represents independent social care services, says the changes would deter “much-needed” international workers who have a “vital role”.

The UK government is proposing that workers on post-Brexit health and social care visas wait 15 years before permanent settlement – up from five years currently.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the move as part of a string of changes to the immigration system over the last week.

Scottish Care chief executive, Donald Macaskill, said he was “deeply concerned” by Mahmood’s plans.

“Scotland’s care sector is already facing acute workforce shortages,” he said.

“With international colleagues playing a vital role in supporting older and vulnerable citizens.

“Forcing dedicated care workers to wait up to 15 years for settlement, and tying their future to restrictive criteria, will deter much-needed talent from staying in Scotland.”

A report last year by Scottish Care found just over 66% of its members were actively recruiting from overseas.

It also found internationally recruited care workers made up nearly 100% of the workforce in some areas.