Published: 03.11.2026
The UK government has announced an “earned settlement” model under which the standard route to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) would increase from five to ten years for most migrants. Shorter routes would remain for high earners and certain healthcare and education workers, while some care workers could retain a five-year path if they meet the stated conditions.
For most migrants, the planned settlement route would extend to ten years and depend on income, tax and National Insurance contributions, English proficiency, criminal record and public debts. This would mean a longer period on temporary visas and a need to maintain documented compliance; some applicants could require an additional five-year visa. The main impact would fall on current UK residents and future workers earning below the relevant thresholds, while high earners and some healthcare, education and care workers would retain shorter routes. Anyone planning a move with permanent residence in mind should follow the final implementation closely, as this is a major change to long-term immigration planning, according to the sources.