The UK government's 2025 Immigration White Paper introduced the most significant change to settlement rules in a generation: the standard qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) has been extended from 5 years to 10 years for most visa routes. Here is what changed, who is affected, and what you should do.
What changed and when?
From April 2026, the default pathway to ILR (permanent residence) for most work and family visa holders increased from 5 years to 10 years. This applies to new applicants and, in most cases, to people already in the UK who have not yet reached the 5-year mark under the old rules.
- ✓Old rule: 5 years of continuous residence → eligible for ILR
- ✓New rule: 10 years of continuous residence → eligible for ILR
- ✓Affects: Skilled Worker, Health & Care Worker, Spouse/Partner, and most other routes
- ✓The 180-day absence rule per year still applies during the full 10-year period
Who is affected?
Anyone on a work or family visa who entered the UK after the April 2026 implementation date will be on the 10-year route by default. People already in the UK may also be affected depending on when they started their continuous residence.
💡 Tip
If you were granted your first qualifying visa before April 2026 and have been continuously resident, you may still be eligible under the old 5-year rules. Check with a registered immigration solicitor — transitional provisions are complex.
What is "earned settlement"?
The White Paper introduces an "earned settlement" framework. Rather than automatic ILR after a fixed period, migrants must demonstrate good conduct, economic contribution, and integration. The core criteria include: no serious criminal conviction, meeting English language requirements (B2 level), and sustained earnings above £12,570 for at least 3 to 5 years.
Can I get ILR faster than 10 years?
Yes — the government is consulting on accelerated pathways for those who demonstrate exceptional contribution. Factors being considered include working in priority sectors (NHS, social care, education), higher salary levels, and voluntary community activity. Final criteria had not been confirmed as of June 2026.
- ✓NHS and social care workers: likely accelerated route
- ✓High earners (specific thresholds to be confirmed)
- ✓Long-term volunteers and community contributors
- ✓PhD-level or exceptional talent workers
What should you do now?
- ✓If you are approaching your 5-year mark: apply for ILR as soon as you are eligible if you qualify under transitional rules
- ✓If you have just arrived on a work visa: plan for a 10-year path and track your absences carefully
- ✓Use the Relocly ILR Calculator to track your eligibility date and absences
- ✓Consult a registered immigration solicitor — transitional provisions are still being clarified
- ✓Maintain good records: payslips, tax returns, and absence logs for all 10 years
What about British citizenship?
You can apply for British citizenship (naturalisation) 12 months after receiving ILR. Under the new rules, this means most work visa holders will be looking at 11 years before they can naturalise — compared to 6 years under the old system.
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