The UK government has unveiled major reforms to its immigration and asylum policies, significantly increasing the waiting period for permanent residency and tightening eligibility criteria.
Under the new proposals, migrants who enter the UK legally may have to wait up to 20 years to apply for settlement, while those who enter illegally could face a 30-year wait. The rules will also apply retrospectively to individuals already living in the country.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told Parliament that applicants for permanent residency must have no criminal record, demonstrate A-level standard English, and be free of any outstanding debts in the UK.
“We aim to replace a broken immigration system with one that is fair and focused on integration,” Mahmood said, noting that her own parents migrated to the UK in search of a better life before becoming citizens.
The reforms extend the required period of residence from 5 years to 10 years for most categories. Exceptions have been made for certain high-priority groups:
NHS doctors and nurses can apply after 5 years.
Highly skilled workers will benefit from fast-track processing.
Entrepreneurs and high earners may apply after 3 years, a move intended to encourage investment and economic activity.
Impact on Business and Social Benefits:
The government has introduced targeted measures aimed at various groups, reflecting both economic and social priorities. Business migrants can now apply for settlement after just three years, reduced from ten, in an effort to stimulate economic growth and attract entrepreneurial talent.
Frontline public sector workers, such as healthcare staff, will also benefit from faster access to settlement, helping to address critical workforce shortages.
Conversely, individuals claiming social benefits will face stricter rules, with a settlement waiting period extended to 20 years, signaling a more restrictive approach for those reliant on state support. These measures collectively aim to balance economic development, social service sustainability, and immigration control.
A Home Office spokesperson said the reforms are intended to attract skilled and economically active migrants while strengthening the UK’s economy.
The announcement comes amid ongoing debates over the UK’s immigration system, which ministers have repeatedly described as in need of reform to balance fairness, integration, and economic needs.
