02/11/2026
: 10-YEAR SETTLEMENT PATHWAY ANNOUNCED
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has set out the Government’s earned settlement policy. Under the announced model, most migrants earning less than £50,000 a year will follow a 10-year pathway to indefinite leave to remain (ILR). They will need to show a sustained contribution to the UK and may renew their temporary visas while they wait.
Key points:
- A five-year pathway will remain open to people earning more than £50,000 and certain health and education professionals, including doctors, nurses and teachers.
- A three-year pathway may be available to people earning over £125,000 and those on the highest talent schemes.
- An immigration breach could extend the qualifying period to 20 years.
- Hong Kong British Nationals (Overseas), armed forces members, people with a British connection and people on legacy routes such as Windrush are among the groups whose settlement pathway will remain as it is today.
The announcement sets out the policy direction. The final Immigration Rules, their start date and any transitional arrangements will determine how the changes apply. If you are planning an ILR application, check the rules for your route and circumstances before applying.
