Home Secretary Launches New Regulations for Migrants Seeking to Settle in the UK

The right to indefinite residence in the UK will no longer be automatically granted to migrants after five years, as outlined in the new earned settlement model presented to Parliament. This model reflects an understanding that settled status is a considerable privilege, providing unrestricted access to the labour market, the NHS, and the welfare system. Consequently, the duration of wait time for settlement will depend on an individual’s contributions and character.

High earners will have the opportunity to settle after three years, while those earning above £50,271, as well as certain public service professionals—such as doctors, nurses, and teachers—will be eligible after five years. Others will have a new default waiting period of ten years, and individuals who have violated immigration rules will need to wait a minimum of twenty years before they can apply for settlement.

Non-Negotiable Conditions for Settlement

Regardless of their arrival date, all individuals seeking settlement must fulfil four essential criteria:

• A clean criminal record, with the threshold raised from a 12-month suspended sentence to a spotless record.
• Proficiency in English at a high standard, equivalent to A-Level English as a foreign language.
• No outstanding debts to the taxpayer.
• A history of consistent National Insurance contributions.

These reforms largely align with proposals presented in the November 2025 consultation. However, a new fair arrangement has been introduced for care workers, acknowledging their vital contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who have adhered to their visa conditions and earned a minimum of £25,000 per year will be able to settle after five years.

Addressing Exploitation in the Care Sector

The care worker route has experienced abuses, with unscrupulous companies sponsoring workers for non-existent roles. In response, the government has revoked sponsorship rights from 1,800 exploitative employers. For those who do not meet the criteria for five-year settlement—approximately a quarter of the total—there will be an opportunity to apply for a new five-year visa that can eventually lead to settlement.

A similar strategy will be implemented for public service workers in healthcare and education who arrived during the same timeframe. Settlement rules will continue to apply at the point of application, consistent with existing practices in Britain and internationally.

Impact on Settlement Times and Welfare Costs

As a result of these changes, it is estimated that over 500,000 individuals will face longer wait times, significantly reducing the welfare bill. No one will be compelled to leave, and all will have a fair chance to apply for new visas that allow them to settle after ten years.

The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of a controlled immigration system that rewards contributions and adheres to established rules. He noted that the previous government had lost control of immigration following Brexit, resulting in an unprecedented increase in numbers. This administration is committed to addressing these challenges effectively.

Fairness in Migration Policy

The Home Secretary highlighted that settled status is one of the most significant rights available in the UK, which has previously been granted almost automatically. Under the new policy, settlement must be earned, prioritising those who contribute most while imposing longer wait times for rule-breakers.

This policy aims to create an equitable migration system, balancing the needs of newcomers and the existing population. Additionally, it outlines settlement rights for refugees, promoting the use of controlled, capped safe and legal routes while discouraging illegal crossings. Refugees arriving through Home Office-approved channels will be eligible for settlement after five years, while others will need to wait twenty years, reduced to ten for those who work or study. Individuals arriving by small boat or other clandestine means will face an additional ten-year waiting period, potentially extending their wait for settlement to thirty years.

Protection of Current Settled Status

Importantly, settled status will not be revoked from those already holding it. Family members of British citizens, Hong Kong British Nationals (Overseas), and armed forces personnel will retain their existing pathways to residency.

Furthermore, the UK is poised to establish the most business-friendly migration system in Europe for highly skilled workers, positioning itself as a leading destination for talent globally.