UK Earned Settlement Proposals: What the Consultation Means for You

The “earned settlement” proposals in the 2025 Immigration White Paper represent the most significant proposed change to UK settlement rules in a generation. A public consultation closed in February 2026 with over 200,000 responses. Our Bolton solicitors explain what is being proposed and what it means for those on the path to ILR.

What is “Earned Settlement”?

Currently, most migrants who have lived in the UK lawfully for 5 years (on the partner, skilled worker or other qualifying route) can apply for ILR on meeting the existing requirements. Under the earned settlement proposals, the government seeks to make settlement harder to obtain and more dependent on what the government describes as “contribution” — economic, civic or social.

Extended Qualifying Periods

The proposals include extending the standard qualifying period for settlement from 5 years to potentially 10 years for some groups. Reductions from the 10-year baseline would be possible for those who meet criteria such as: being in sustained skilled employment above a certain salary, having paid substantial tax, having undertaken civic duties (e.g. military service), or having no recourse to public funds.

Impact on Asylum Seekers

For those granted asylum, the proposals suggest a 20-year qualifying period for settlement unless the person enters sustained skilled employment or undertakes significant civic activity. This is the most controversial element of the proposals.

What Happens If You Can Already Apply for ILR?

The government has signalled that existing qualifying periods will be protected for those who apply before the new rules come into force. If you are close to the current 5-year qualifying period, seeking early legal advice to apply under the current rules may be strongly in your interest.