LONDON: The British government has proposed major changes to its immigration policy, including doubling the standard qualifying period for migrants seeking permanent residency from five to 10 years. Under the proposed system, applicants would also have to meet additional requirements relating to income, English language proficiency and other legal conditions.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has unveiled further details of the proposed immigration reforms following a consultation process. The initial outline of the changes was presented in November 2025.
New Eligibility Criteria for Permanent Residency
Under the proposed framework, most migrants would need to have lived in the UK for at least 10 years before qualifying for permanent settlement.
Applicants would also be required to have earned at least £12,571 annually for a minimum of five years during the seven years preceding their application. However, exemptions and shorter qualifying periods would apply to certain professions and higher earners.
Eligible individuals earning £50,271 or more annually could qualify for settlement after five years.
The five-year route would also remain available to doctors, nurses, teachers and certain care workers who meet the relevant requirements. Eligible individuals holding British National (Overseas) (BNO) status from Hong Kong would also retain access to the five-year route.
Meanwhile, certain high-skilled professionals earning more than £125,141 annually, as well as individuals holding Global Talent or Innovator Founder visas, could qualify after just three years.
By contrast, some individuals who claim public funds or breach immigration rules could face a settlement waiting period of up to 20 years.
Additional Requirements for Applicants
Applicants would need to demonstrate good character, have a strong command of English, have no outstanding debts owed to the government and earn at least £12,571 annually for a minimum of three years.
Separate Settlement Rules for Refugees
Refugees admitted through government resettlement schemes could qualify for permanent residency after five years.
Other refugees could become eligible after 10 years if they are employed or pursuing education. Those who do not meet these conditions could face a waiting period of up to 20 years.
Refugees who enter the UK through small boats or other irregular routes could face a 20-year qualifying period if they work or study, rising to 30 years if they do neither.
Existing Migrants and Families Also Affected
The proposed changes would also apply to eligible migrants already living in the UK. However, individuals who have already secured permanent residency would not be affected.
Eligible spouses could obtain settlement alongside their partners, while the existing provision allowing children under 18 to settle with their parents would remain in place.
The five-year settlement route would also continue for eligible spouses, parents and children of British citizens.
What Does Permanent Residency Allow?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows individuals to live, work and study in the UK without any time limit on their stay.
Those who meet the relevant legal requirements may also apply for British citizenship 12 months after obtaining permanent residency.
