The UK is preparing for one of the biggest immigration reforms in decades. The Home Office has proposed a new points-style model for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), known as the “Earned Settlement” system, which shifts the focus from simply completing a number of years in the UK to proving contribution, character, integration, and compliance.
The consultation remains open until 12 February 2026, but the direction is clear: settlement must be earned, not assumed.
This guide breaks down the proposals in an easy, human-friendly way so migrants, families, and employers can understand what may change and what to prepare for.
What Exactly Is Changing?
Under the current rules, many visa routes, especially the Skilled Worker route lead to ILR in 5 years.
Under the proposed model:
The new baseline qualifying period will be 10 years for most routes.
This baseline can then be:
- Reduced for those who show strong contribution, higher-level English, or community service
- Increased for those with immigration breaches, illegal entry, receipt of public funds, etc.
Lawful residence alone will no longer guarantee settlement.
The Four Core Pillars of the New ILR System
The government’s consultation introduces four key areas applicants must satisfy.
1. Character
Applicants must show:
- No criminal convictions
- No immigration breaches
- No outstanding NHS, tax or public debt
The Home Office is also reviewing the criminality threshold, suggesting that any criminal record may block ILR.
2. Integration
Applicants will need:
- Minimum English level: B2
- Life in the UK Test
- Possible bonus credits for higher English fluency (C1)
- Extra credit for community or civic engagement
3. Contribution
Contribution is the most significant new pillar.
The Home Office emphasises:
- Taxable income
- Public service work
- Skilled or high-value roles
Higher earners can see their qualifying period reduced by several years.
4. Residence
Continuous lawful residence continues to be required, but:
Residence alone will no longer be enough to qualify someone for ILR.
Mandatory ILR Requirements (Proposed)
| Pillar | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Suitability | No criminality, no debt, full compliance |
| Integration | B2 English + Life in the UK Test |
| Contribution | Annual taxable income of at least £12,570 for 3–5 years (under consultation) |
How the New 10-Year Baseline Works
Most ILR applicants will start with a 10-year period.
This period can be reduced based on “positive attributes” such as high income, community contribution, higher English level, or being on specific routes (Global Talent, Innovator Founder, BN(O), family routes).
It can also be increased significantly for breaches.
Proposed Reductions (Minus Years)
| Criteria | Reduction |
|---|---|
| C1 English proficiency | –1 year |
| Income £125,140+ for 3 years | –7 years |
| Income £50,270+ for 3 years | –5 years |
| 5 years in specified public service occupations | –5 years |
| Community work / volunteering | –3 to –5 years |
| Family route (partner/parent/child) | –5 years |
| BN(O) Route | –5 years |
| Global Talent / Innovator Founder (3 years residence) | –7 years |
Where multiple reductions apply, only the largest reduction is counted.
Proposed Increases (Plus Years)
Only the largest increase applies per applicant:
| Criteria | Increase |
|---|---|
| Public funds <12 months | +5 years |
| Public funds >12 months | +10 years |
| Illegal entry (small boat, clandestine) | Up to +20 years |
| Entering the UK on a visit visa | Up to +20 years |
| Overstaying for 6+ months | Up to +20 years |
These increases override any reductions.
Impact on Skilled Workers
Today: ILR after 5 years
Under proposals:
- Skilled workers → 10-year baseline
- Lower-skilled roles may see up to 15 years before settlement
This shifts the UK’s immigration model towards long-term contribution rather than time-based residence.
Dependants: Major Changes
Dependants will no longer automatically get ILR when the main applicant qualifies.
- Adult dependants must earn settlement individually
- Children turning 18 may need a separate route
- Some grace protections may apply
This is one of the biggest changes for migrant families.
Transitional Arrangements
Still under review.
The Home Office is seeking feedback on whether to protect:
- Migrants already on a settlement route
- Those close to completing 5-year ILR eligibility under existing rules
This part is not final.
Who Benefits?
People likely to benefit:
- High earners
- Highly skilled professionals
- Public-sector workers
- Community contributors
- BN(O) and family route migrants
Who May Be Disadvantaged?
- Low-paid workers
- Migrants with immigration history issues
- Dependants without income
- People expecting ILR in 5 years under current rules
- Those who have used public funds
Preparing for the New ILR System
The proposed model suggests migrants should start focusing on:
- Maintaining clean compliance records
- Increasing English proficiency
- Strengthening taxable income
- Avoiding gaps, overstays, or breaches
- Engaging in community or voluntary work
From 2026 onward, ILR is likely to become:
- Harder
- Longer
- More contribution-based
Official Source Links (Home Office)
(These are publicly available and safe to cite)
- Consultation Document: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/earned-settlement
- Home Office Statement: A Fairer Pathway to Settlement
- Survey for Responses (Closes 12 Feb 2026):
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/earned-settlement
