Dr Q Manivannan, one of two transgender Green MSPs elected this week, has pledged to build a fair and humane system despite their uncertain visa status. The non-binary MSP, who uses they/them pronouns, is currently in the UK on a student visa but is applying for a graduate visa and a global talent visa to allow them to continue serving in the Scottish Parliament.
Visa Application Process
Dr Manivannan, who hails from the Tamil Nadu region of India, explained that they are in the process of transitioning to a graduate visa, which will permit them to stay in the UK for an additional three years. Simultaneously, they are applying for a global talent visa, which would cover their entire parliamentary term and beyond. They stated: "Every MSP from every party represented in the Scottish Parliament unanimously voted to allow everyone with the right to live here to stand in elections, including new Scots on visas like me."
Criticism of Home Office
The MSP described the Home Office as "dehumanising" towards migrants and expressed their intention to challenge this during their political career. They said: "I am proud of my heritage and who I am. I am also proud to be a voice for all my constituents, including migrants and people on visas who are often shut out of our national debate." Dr Manivannan emphasised their local work in arts, culture, academia, and human rights in Scotland, stating: "Scotland is home, in every way."
Party Support
Green Party co-leader Gillian Mackay previously stated that the party would provide all possible support to Dr Manivannan in their visa renewal process, though she believes it is unlikely they will be rejected. A Scottish Parliament spokesperson clarified: "It is the responsibility of individual candidates and political parties to ensure that all relevant qualifications for standing for election are met. There is no role for the Parliament in carrying out checks on candidates who are elected."
The Mirror has approached the Home Office for comment regarding Dr Manivannan's visa situation and the broader implications for elected officials on visas.
