British government sets out tougher rules for migrants looking to settle in the UK

The British government announced a stricter immigration policy on Monday, aiming to double the waiting period for most foreign workers seeking permanent settlement in the UK. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood revealed that the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) would increase from five years to ten years for most individuals.

ILR grants the right to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely. However, high earners—those earning over £50,271 (approximately €60,200)—and certain public service workers, such as doctors, nurses, and teachers, will be eligible for settlement after three or five years, respectively, under the Labour government's new model.

In response to criticism from unions and some Labour Party members, exemptions have been granted for care workers earning £25,000 (around €29,900) annually, allowing them to follow their existing five-year pathway. The revised policy acknowledges the contributions of long-serving employees who have answered the nation's needs during challenging times.

The government conducted a consultation period that garnered over 200,000 responses, which included concerns about fairness, complexity, and the impact on existing UK residents, but also support for a system that emphasizes contribution, integration, and compliance. Individuals found guilty of immigration rule breaches will face a 20-year waiting period, while those who entered the country through illegal means will have to wait up to 30 years for settlement.

Settled status holders will not be affected by these changes. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the country's struggle to control immigration since the Brexit vote, praising Home Secretary Mahmood for addressing the issue. Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has pledged to eliminate indefinite leave to remain if it gains power, proposing a five-year renewable work visa instead.