Immigration Law and Legal Insights

In May 2025, the UK Government published an Immigration White Paper setting out proposed changes to the immigration system, including an intention to increase the qualifying residence period for settlement (also known as indefinite leave to remain or ILR) from five to 10 years. The White Paper also introduced the concept of "earned settlement", whereby migrants could reduce the 10-year qualifying period by meeting additional criteria in relation to their contributions to and integration into UK society.

The government's proposals to reform UK settlement eligibility have now been published in a new consultation document. These will profoundly impact individuals and businesses...

Following the publication of the Immigration White Paper and the government's recent emphasis on reforming both legal and illegal migration, significant changes have been proposed to the process by which individuals can obtain settlement or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status in the UK.