The UK Government has announced a major change to its immigration settlement system, introducing a new policy known as Earned Settlement. Announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood on 2 November 2026, the policy changes how migrants qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), making settlement dependent on an individual’s contribution to the UK, immigration compliance, financial responsibilities and good character.
Under the new system, the standard qualifying period for settlement will increase from five to ten years for most migrants. However, individuals who make significant economic or public service contributions may qualify sooner. The highest earners may be eligible after three years, while individuals earning more than £50,271 and certain public service professionals, including doctors, nurses and teachers, may qualify after five years.
Applicants will also have to satisfy four mandatory conditions, regardless of their qualifying period. These include having a clean criminal record, demonstrating a high standard of English equivalent to A-Level English as a foreign language, having no outstanding debts to the UK Government and showing a sustained record of National Insurance contributions.
The policy also introduces longer settlement periods for individuals who have breached immigration rules. Those who have previously failed to comply with immigration requirements may have to wait at least 20 years before qualifying. For refugees, the settlement period will depend on the route through which they entered the UK. Refugees arriving through approved routes may qualify after five years, while others may have to wait 20 years, potentially reduced to ten years if they work or study. Those arriving through small boats or other clandestine routes could face waiting periods of up to 30 years.
There are also specific transitional arrangements for care workers and certain public service workers. Eligible care workers who complied with their visa conditions and earned at least £25,000 annually may qualify for settlement after five years. Those who do not meet the requirements may be offered an additional five-year visa, providing another opportunity to meet the settlement conditions.
Importantly, individuals who have already obtained settled status will not lose it as a result of these reforms. Existing settlement pathways for certain groups, including family members of British citizens, Hong Kong British Nationals (Overseas) and members of the armed forces, will also remain unchanged.
Overall, the new Earned Settlement policy represents a significant shift in the UK’s approach to permanent residency. Rather than granting settlement primarily on the basis of completing a five-year period of lawful residence, the Government intends to place greater emphasis on economic contribution, integration, financial responsibility and compliance with immigration laws. The changes are expected to affect many migrants currently living and working in the UK, particularly those who have not yet obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain.
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