Proposed immigration reforms in the UK: Home Affairs Committee investigation on a proposed extension of the settlement qualifying time.
Increasing the qualifying residence duration for settlement (often called indefinite leave to remain, or ILR) from five years to ten years is one of the most important suggestions. Based on contributions made to the UK economy and society—a concept known as “earned settlement”—it would be feasible to shorten this time frame; however, no details of what “earned settlement” comprises have been given up to this point.
This has generated a lot of discussion, which will culminate in a three-hour parliamentary session on September 8, 2025, to discuss whether this change should extend to people who are already in the UK and are on a five-year path to ILR. The plan to start a consultation on the proposal has been confirmed by the UK government.
Investigation by the Home Affairs Committee
The Home Affairs Committee has initiated a special inquiry into the intentions to extend the qualifying residence duration for ILR in advance of the Government’s upcoming consultation. Stakeholders are being asked to provide testimony regarding the following questions by December 2, 2025.
Possible effects of altering settlement routes
- What data exists about the impact of settlement pathways on immigration and settlement rates?
- What effects are longer settlement routes expected to have on companies and employers, particularly when it comes to hiring highly trained people from abroad?
- How are migrant households currently residing in the UK going to be affected by longer routes and more stringent settlement requirements? This might consist of:
- the influence on the economy and finances, particularly benefits access; and
- the effects on individuals and society.
- What possible impact can modifications to settlement eligibility have on integration?
- What evidence is available from other nations about the aforementioned issues?
How the new earned settlement regulations might operate
- When thinking about settlement pathways, how should “long-term contribution” to the UK be defined and measured? This could involve the definition and weighting of the following components:
- contributions to society and the community; and
- financial and financial contributions.
- Which of the new regulations should be exempt?
- How have contribution-based systems been implemented in other nations?
In addition to answering the government’s proposed inquiry, the inquiry provides stakeholders with an additional means of influencing the earned settlement policy.
Evidence must be submitted using this form by December 2, 2025. Please contact your regular Macfarlanes contact if you would want to discuss your opinions on these matters.