In November 2025, the government provided more details on its proposed changes to eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. It states that the reforms will make Britain’s settlement system the most controlled and selective in Europe.
Under the proposals, the standard qualifying period for many applicants will double from five to ten years. Those who are deemed to contribute to society and abide by the rules will be rewarded with reduced qualifying periods, while those reliant on benefits will have to wait for twenty years.
Those who arrive illegally or who stay beyond their visa expiry date will not be considered for ILR for up to thirty years. Recognised refugees will need to wait for twenty years.
What is the proposed new standard qualifying period for ILR?
For most migration routes, applicants for ILR will need to have lived lawfully in the UK for ten years, up from the current five years.
They will also need to satisfy the following criteria:
- Be in work and have made National Insurance contributions, with an annual salary of over £12,750, for three to five years
- Not owe any money to the NHS, tax or other government debt
- Meet the required English language standard
- Pass the Life in the UK test
- Have a clean criminal record
- Not claim benefits
Why is ILR important?
Once an individual has ILR, they will no longer face restrictions on entering and leaving the UK, provided they are not absent for more than two years. They will have the right to live in the UK for as long as they want, and be able to work, start a business, and study. They can also apply for benefits and have NHS medical treatment.
ILR is also a main path to British citizenship.
Who will have a reduced ILR qualifying period?
The government has stated its aim of supporting economic growth, allowing the brightest and best of international talent to settle after a reduced number of years, as well as those who have contributed to society. This is being referred to as earned settlement, and is based on four core pillars:
- Character
- Integration
- Contribution
- Residence
The potential reductions available for those who are considered to have earned ILR are as follows:
- For high earners and entrepreneurs, it is proposed that ILR be available after three years, where taxable income is at least £125,140 for three years, and five years, where taxable income is at least £50,270 for three years
- NHS doctors and nurses will be eligible to apply after five years
- Skilled frontline public service workers will have a five-year pathway
- Immediate family members of UK citizens and British Nationals Overseas will keep the existing five-year requirement
- Global Talent or Innovator Founder visa holders may be eligible to apply after three years
- It is proposed that those who make the effort to integrate into British society, for example, by speaking English to a high standard and volunteering, could receive a discount
How 3CS can help
The consultation period for the proposed ILR changes ends in February, and new laws could start to roll out as early as April 2026. For those eligible for ILR now, it is important not to wait to apply.
Our expert immigration solicitors can advise you on the best immigration route and put together a robust application for ILR.
For assistance, please get in touch today.
