Last year the Government introduced a consultation about “earned settlement” (indefinite leave to remain).
The Government plans to increase the normal period required for settlement from five to ten years.
The consultation proposed ways in which applicants might reduce the qualification period such as:
- Income earned in the UK
- Level of English language skills
- Working in a “public service” occupation
- Participation in community such as volunteering
Ways in which the qualification period might be extended were also suggested such as:
- Receiving public funds
- Arriving in the UK as a visitor and switching categories
- Illegal entry to the UK
In particular, the consultation states that the new “earned settlement” rules are expected to supersede the existing “long residence” route to settlement.
The consultation closed on 12 February 2026.
The Government is expected to announce any proposed changes in March 2026 when the next Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules is expected to be laid before Parliament. After that, changes to the Immigration Rules will probably be introduced starting in April 2026.
Whether changes will apply to people who are already in the UK on a route to settlement, or be applied retrospectively to outstanding applications, has not been decided.
If you are approaching eligibility for settlement, you should consider whether you can apply before changes are introduced, and whether the priority service might be an option.
If you would like advice about your eligibility for settlement or other immigration options, please contact me by email at kf@kfimmigration.com
13 February 2026