The UK government’s 2025 Immigration White Paper outlines significant changes to the immigration system, including one of the most consequential reforms in recent years – the extension of the standard qualifying period for settlement from five years to ten.
Also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settlement grants migrants the right to live and work in the UK without time restrictions. It is also a key step toward applying for British citizenship. Under current rules, many individuals on work or family visas can apply for settlement after five continuous years of lawful residence in the UK. However, the government now intends to double this timeframe for most categories.
This change will affect a broad range of migrants who are planning to build long-term lives in the UK. In this article, we explain what the new 10-year rule means, who it applies to and how individuals can plan ahead.
Understanding the change from five to ten years
As of now, most work and family visa routes offer a five-year pathway to settlement, provided applicants meet certain requirements. These include continuous lawful residence, income or employment criteria and good character.
Under the proposals set out in the 2025 Immigration White Paper, the government will increase this standard period to ten years across most immigration categories. This means that migrants will need to spend a full decade in the UK – lawfully and without significant breaks – before becoming eligible to apply for ILR.
There will still be exceptions. Some individuals will continue to qualify for settlement on a shorter five-year timeline. These include:
- Dependants of British citizens
- Victims of domestic abuse
- Bereaved parents or carers of British or settled children
The paper also signals plans to retain safeguards for vulnerable applicants and streamline settlement for long-term residents who arrived in the UK as children.
Who will this affect?
The move to a 10-year settlement route will affect a wide range of visa holders, particularly those in the early stages of their immigration journey. This includes:
- Skilled workers on the new or existing points-based routes
- Family visa holders who are not exempt under the rules above
- Individuals who transition from student or graduate visas into work-based routes
- Long-term temporary migrants who had previously expected to qualify after five years
For applicants already nearing the five-year threshold under the current rules, it remains to be seen whether transitional protections will apply. As of publication, the government has not confirmed whether those part-way through a five-year route will be allowed to complete it under existing rules or be required to meet the new 10-year standard.
With this in mind, migrants should take steps to assess their current visa category, timeline and whether alternative routes may be available.
Related: Closure of the Social Care Visa Route: What Are Your Options Now?
The new contribution-based approach
Alongside the longer timeline, the government plans to introduce a new approach to settlement and citizenship based on an individual’s “contribution to the UK”. This will involve integrating the existing points-based model not only into visa applications, but also into the process of qualifying for ILR and eventually, British citizenship.
While full details are still to be announced, the contribution-based model is expected to consider factors such as:
- Employment history and economic activity
- Tax contributions
- Skills and qualifications
- Public or community service
This change could reward individuals with strong economic records or specialised skills, but may also introduce more complexity for those with career breaks, family responsibilities or non-traditional employment patterns.
Until more guidance is published, migrants are advised to maintain accurate records and ensure all employment, self-employment and tax documentation is in good order.
Implications for migrants and families
Extending the settlement period to ten years has a number of practical consequences for individuals and families:
- Higher cumulative visa costs: Visa renewal fees, Immigration Health Surcharges and legal documentation costs may now extend over a decade instead of five years.
- Delayed access to public funds: Most migrants cannot access benefits or other public support until they achieve ILR, meaning a longer period of financial independence is required.
- Longer wait for citizenship: Since British citizenship typically requires at least 12 months of ILR status, the overall journey to citizenship may now take 11 years or more.
- Impact on family stability: For families with children, particularly those born in the UK, delays to settlement may affect planning around housing, education and long-term security.
The change also places greater emphasis on maintaining continuous lawful residence. Any gaps or errors in visa renewals over the ten-year period could potentially reset the clock or delay ILR eligibility.
Planning ahead: Practical steps for migrants
Migrants currently living and working in the UK should take time to reassess their long-term immigration plans. Key steps include:
- Review your current visa type and pathway: Some routes may still lead to settlement within five years – especially where exemptions apply.
- Understand your visa timeline: Knowing when your current visa expires and when you may become eligible for ILR is crucial.
- Maintain thorough records: This includes proof of employment, income, address history, tax contributions and time spent outside the UK.
- Seek legal advice before making major changes: Switching visas or routes can affect eligibility for ILR and it’s important to make informed decisions.
How Osbourne Pinner can help
The government’s sweeping reforms to immigration may feel overwhelming if you’re affected. However, it’s important to fully understand the changes, your rights and the best way forward. That’s where Osbourne Pinner Solicitors comes in.
We help individuals and families navigate every stage of the immigration process – from initial applications to settlement and citizenship. If you are concerned about how the new 10-year settlement rule could affect your future in the UK, our immigration solicitors can assess your case and help you plan the best route forward.
We can advise you on:
- Whether the new rules apply to your current visa
- What options you have for shortening your settlement timeline
- How to prepare for a contribution-based settlement system
- How to protect your eligibility for ILR over the long term
Want to find out more? We offer a free 30-minute consultation to help you understand your position and take the next step with confidence.
To arrange your consultation, contact us at [email protected], call 0203 983 5080 or complete the online enquiry form below.
