Highlights: UK May Extend ILR Qualification to 10 Years under New Immigration Reforms
  • The UK government has proposed increasing the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) qualifying period from 5 to 10 years for most visa categories, as outlined in the 2025 Immigration White Paper.
  • A new “earned settlement” pathway is being introduced, allowing faster ILR eligibility for individuals who make strong economic or social contributions to the UK.
  • Family and humanitarian visa holders may continue to follow the existing 5-year settlement route.
  • The proposal is still under consultation and awaiting parliamentary approval before it becomes law.
  • This move forms part of the UK’s broader plan to reduce net migration and make permanent residency more merit-based by 2026.
Planning to apply for UK ILR? Consult with Apical Immigration Experts to understand your eligibility and next steps.

Planning to Settle in the UK? Here’s How the Proposed ILR Rule Could Affect You

Currently, most migrants in the UK — such as Skilled Worker Visa holders — can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after completing five years of continuous lawful residence. However, under the UK government’s 2025 Immigration White Paper, this qualifying period may extend to ten years for most categories.

While this proposal is not yet implemented, it indicates a major shift in the UK’s immigration landscape — where permanent settlement could soon be seen as something to be earned, not just granted with time.

If approved, migrants will need to live in the UK for twice as long before applying for ILR. The proposed “earned settlement” system aims to reward those who show steady employment, economic contribution, English proficiency, and active participation in UK society.

That said, the government is likely to retain the existing 5-year route for certain categories, including family, partner, and humanitarian visas. Exceptional contributors may still qualify earlier under merit-based exceptions; though specific details will be revealed after consultation.

Proposed Updates to UK Immigration Policy

Alongside the ILR reform, the UK is also introducing several key immigration changes:
  • Increased salary and skill thresholds for Skilled Worker Visa applicants.
  • Phasing out the overseas recruitment route for social care positions.
  • Stricter English language requirements for dependants and family applicants.
  • Enhanced sponsor accountability and digital case management to reduce misuse and delays.
For Indian professionals planning long-term UK settlement, these proposals emphasize the importance of early planning and timely ILR application before new rules take effect. Considering UK migration? Connect with Apical Immigration Experts for personalized visa and settlement guidance.

Steps Migrants Should Take Before the ILR Changes Are Finalized

The proposed 10-year ILR rule represents one of the most significant settlement reforms in recent years. While it is not yet law, it signals the UK’s intent to make ILR an achievement that reflects long-term stability and integration.

If you are already on the 5-year route, you can continue under current rules until the new system is officially implemented. However, it’s important to stay updated, track policy announcements, and, where possible, apply early to secure ILR under existing conditions.

For Indian migrants working in the UK, these potential reforms could influence long-term goals — from employment planning to family settlement. You should:

  • Maintain uninterrupted lawful residence and valid sponsorship.
  • Strengthen your profile with consistent employment, tax records, and English fluency.
  • Monitor official UK Home Office announcements regularly.
  • Seek expert assistance to evaluate how upcoming policies could impact your ILR eligibility timeline.
Apical Immigration Experts can help you assess your current status, optimize your ILR preparation, and stay ahead of immigration reforms.

FAQs: UK Proposes to Extend ILR Eligibility to 10 Years

What is the UK’s proposed 10-year ILR rule?

The UK government has suggested increasing the standard ILR qualifying period from five to ten years under the 2025 Immigration White Paper. This would affect most employment-based visa holders, ensuring settlement is “earned” through consistent work, tax compliance, English proficiency, and community involvement. The proposal is currently under review and not yet implemented.

Has the 10-year ILR rule been implemented?

No. The proposed rule is still under parliamentary and public review. Until it becomes law, migrants can continue applying for ILR under the existing five-year route.

Who will be most affected?

If implemented, the change will primarily impact Skilled Worker Visa, Global Business Mobility, and other work-based categories. Family and humanitarian routes are expected to remain unchanged. Indian professionals in the UK, who make up a large share of skilled migrants, would be among the most affected.

Why is the UK considering a longer ILR period?

The government aims to make settlement a merit-based achievement. Extending ILR to 10 years encourages migrants to contribute more deeply to the economy, maintain stable employment, and integrate socially — aligning with the broader goals of the Immigration White Paper.

What is the “earned settlement” concept?

The proposed “earned settlement” model may use a points-based approach, rewarding individuals who demonstrate strong employment, tax contributions, English fluency, and community engagement. While the concept is under development, final details will follow public consultation.

Will family visa holders be affected?

Family visa holders — including spouses or partners of British citizens — are expected to retain the 5-year ILR route. However, dependants of work visa holders may need to follow the main applicant’s extended timeline if the rule changes.

What happens to those already on the 5-year route?

Migrants currently on the 5-year ILR pathway will likely be protected under transitional arrangements. As long as they maintain lawful residence and meet eligibility requirements, they can apply under existing rules.

How could this impact Indian professionals?

Indian nationals working under the Skilled Worker route may face longer settlement timelines if the 10-year rule takes effect. Planning ahead — by maintaining stable employment, improving English skills, and ensuring full tax compliance — will be crucial.

When will the new ILR rule take effect?

There’s no confirmed start date yet. The rule is under review and will only be enforced after public consultation and parliamentary approval. Until then, applicants can continue to apply under current regulations.

What should migrants do now?

Stay informed and proactive. Keep visa records up to date, maintain employment continuity, and prepare your ILR documents early. Migrants nearing the 5-year mark should apply as soon as eligible.

For step-by-step support with your UK ILR or migration plans, contact Apical Immigration Experts, your trusted overseas immigration consultants.