Home Secretary Announces Further Details About UK Government’s Earned Settlement Policy

On 2 November 2026 the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, announced further details regarding the UK Government’s ‘earned settlement’ proposals. The Home Secretary’s announcement to Parliament was supplemented by a detailed response to an earlier consultation launched by the UK Government, in which participants were invited to share their views on a series of proposed reforms to the UK Immigration Rules.

The Home Secretary’s announcement and the accompanying consultation response outline radical changes to the requirements that must be met by migrants applying to settle (also known as indefinite leave to remain) in the UK. These reforms are expected to bring about some of the most consequential changes to UK immigration law in recent years.

In making her statement to Parliament, the Home Secretary reiterated the UK Government’s view that a grant of settlement must not be “automatic” and should be “earned.” The proposals will require migrants to earn settlement by evidencing sustained good conduct and contribution to UK society as a whole. The standard qualifying period for settlement will also increase from five years to ten years in respect of most migrants, though there will be an opportunity to reduce the length of the qualifying period based on a person’s contribution to UK society and the economy.

Significantly, the Home Secretary confirmed that certain groups will be exempt from the longer qualifying period for settlement. Exempted groups will include applicants with a “British connection,” such as partners or parents of British citizens or those on the UK Ancestry route. There are also exemptions for higher earners, those working in qualifying public service roles and certain migrants working in the health and social care sector among others.

While the UK Government is yet to confirm when the ‘earned settlement’ proposals are to take effect, changes are expected to be introduced imminently.

If you would like advice on how the UK Government’s ‘earned settlement’ proposals could affect your route to settlement, then please contact our team of experienced immigration practitioners.