The UK Government is considering major reforms to how individuals qualify for indefinite leave to remain in the UK, also known as settlement. These proposals could represent some of the biggest changes to UK immigration policy seen in decades.
Under the proposals, applicants would be assessed according to new metrics, including their level of 'integration' and 'contribution' to British society. A key proposal is to double the standard qualifying period for settlement from five years to ten, as well as plans to remove the 10-year long residence route, and change how family members qualify.
While some people, such as high earners, could qualify for settlement faster, for many, things could become longer and even more complex.
Reading the proposals, you could easily think that qualifying for settlement is just a matter of having spent five years in the UK. This is not the case, and there are already very specific rules that you need to meet, including around the number of days you spend in the UK, your level of English language and other visa specific rules.
The proposals have attracted a lot of attention, with over 200,000 consultation responses and a range of concerns raised, including from Labour MPs, the Law Society and a range of other stakeholders. Once of the most controversial aspects of the proposals is the potential for changes to apply retrospectively to those already in the UK, effectively changing the rules mid-way through the game for those already on their immigration journey. Other key concerns include the impact on families, vulnerable people and what this may mean for the UK’s ability to attract international talent.
The biggest question at present is what any change in leadership could mean for the proposals. With all eyes on the Makerfield by-election (expected on 18 June 2026), this remains a fast-moving and closely watched area.