London, UK — Thousands of legal migrants could be forced to wait up to 20 years before becoming eligible for settled status under sweeping new immigration reforms proposed by the UK government.
The plans, outlined in the Home Office’s recent “Earned Settlement” consultation, would dramatically extend the timeline for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and introduce penalties for migrants who have accessed public benefits.
Longer Settlement Route
Under the proposal, the standard qualifying period for ILR would rise from five years to ten, marking the biggest change to the system in decades. Some categories, including lower-paid work routes such as health and social care positions, could face a 15-year baseline before applying.
Benefit Use Could Add Up to 10 Years
The most controversial element of the plan is a new penalty system linked to benefit claims. Migrants who have accessed public funds for:
Under 12 months would face an additional 5-year wait, and
12 months or more would face a 10-year extension.
Combined with the new baseline, this means some individuals could face a 20-year path to settlement, even if they have lived and worked in the UK legally throughout.
Impact on Refugees
The proposals also outline a tougher settlement route for refugees, who may be required to wait up to 20 years before becoming eligible for permanent status — a significant increase from the current five-year period.
Government Rationale
The Home Office says the new system is designed to “encourage integration, reward contribution, and ensure long-term self-sufficiency.” Officials argue that settlement should be earned through stable employment and minimal reliance on the welfare system.
Critics Warn of Long-Term Hardship
Legal experts and migrant advocacy groups say the proposed rules could leave long-term residents in prolonged insecurity, limiting their ability to access housing, benefits, or financial stability.
Unions representing health and care workers — many of whom are recruited from overseas — warn the changes could deter essential workers at a time of chronic staffing shortages.
Not Law Yet
The proposals remain under public consultation until February 2026. No legal changes have yet been confirmed, and the government says it will review feedback before drafting legislation.
WRITTEN BY: LIIE IMMIGRATION
