In a landmark move, the UK has unveiled a transformative proposal that rewrites the path to permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR). Under the new income-based system, high earners and top-tier innovators stand to benefit from a 3-year fast-track ILR route, while lower-income applicants face significantly longer timelines. This change marks one of the UK’s biggest immigration overhauls in years—and could shape the future of migrants planning long-term settlement.

Highlights: What’s New?

  • Fast-track ILR in 3 years for individuals earning £125,000+ per year
  • Entrepreneurs on Global Talent & Innovator Founder Visas also qualify for the 3-year pathway
  • Earners between £50,000–£125,000 stay on the standard 5-year ILR track
  • Applicants earning below £50,000 to follow a 10-year route, with penalties extending it to 15–20 years
  • 1.3–2.2 million migrants projected to be ILR-eligible by 2030, says Home Office
  • Mandatory requirements apply to all, across all pathways
Want to work in the UK? Apical Immigration Experts can guide you step-by-step toward your UK dream.

UK Introduces a 3-Year ILR Route for High Earners

The UK is moving toward a contribution-based settlement system, prioritising high-value professionals, innovators, and skilled workers making significant economic contributions. Under the proposal:
  • Individuals earning £125k+ can secure ILR in 3 years instead of 5
  • Global Talent and Innovator Founder visa holders automatically qualify for fast-track settlement
  • Earners below £50k face longer pathways, emphasising the UK’s economic priorities
The government aims to attract world-class talent while ensuring that residency benefits align with income, innovation, and long-term contribution.

Who Qualifies for the New 3-Year ILR Route?

The ultra-fast settlement route will be available to:

High Earners – £125,000+ Annual Salary

If you earn £125k or more, you become eligible for ILR after just 3 years of UK residence. Global Talent Visa Holders Recognised leaders in:
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Engineering
  • Arts
  • Academia

Innovator Founder Visa Holders

Entrepreneurs creating high-impact, scalable businesses.

Skilled professionals with high economic value

Those contributing significantly to the UK economy and meeting mandatory conditions.

Mandatory Requirements for ALL ILR Applicants

Regardless of salary or visa route, applicants must show:
  • Clean criminal record
  • Minimum 3 years of National Insurance contributions
  • No government debt, including NHS charges
  • English proficiency at A-level or higher

Salary-Based ILR Timelines Under the New Rules

Earnings Range ILR Timeline
£125,000+ 3 years (Fast Track)
£50,000–£125,000 5 years
Below £50,000 10 years (may extend to 15–20 yrs with penalties)
Global Talent / Innovator Founder 3 years

Who Is Exempt from the New ILR Rules?

The following groups will NOT be affected:
  • BNO Visa Holders (Hong Kong Route)
  • Family members of British citizens
  • Windrush Scheme applicants
  • EU Settlement Scheme applicants
These categories will continue following their existing ILR pathways.

What This Means for Migrants

This shift is designed to:
  • Attract world-leading professionals
  • Strengthen innovation-led industries
  • Reward high economic contributors
  • Prioritise productivity and financial responsibility
For skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and high earners, this is a massive opportunity to secure UK residency faster than ever before.

Planning to Apply for UK Settlement?

Apical Immigration Experts can help you:
  • Check eligibility for the 3-year ILR route
  • Choose the best visa pathway
  • Prepare documentation to meet new ILR conditions
  • Maximise your chances of approval
Talk to our UK visa experts today and secure your future in the UK! Apply Now! For the latest update, follow Apical Immigration Experts (immigrationxperts.com) on all social media platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.