UK Rethinks Proposed 10-Year Settlement Route For Migrants

The UK Government is reviewing aspects of proposed immigration reforms that could extend the standard qualifying period for settlement from five to 10 years for migrants, including Nigerians.

The proposals under the government’s “earned settlement” plans would increase the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to 10 years. Certain migrants could face longer waits, including a proposed 15-year pathway for some lower-paid or lower-skilled workers in Health and Care roles.

Migrants who have received public funds for more than 12 months could potentially face an additional 10 years, taking their qualifying period to 20 years.

However, the proposals have not been finalised.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, speaking at Labour’s annual conference, acknowledged concerns that some aspects of the reforms could be unfair. She said the government would seek a balance between fairness to legal migrants and British citizens.

Mahmood also said settled status should be earned by people who demonstrate a consistent commitment to the UK.

The review does not mean the proposed 10-, 15- or 20-year settlement periods have been scrapped. The government could still modify the plans before announcing the final immigration rules.