Should migrants have to wait 10 years, not 5, before they can settle permanently in the UK?
Most migrants on work and family routes can currently apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years, though the 10-year long residence route also exists. The government has proposed an "earned settlement" model, with a 10-year baseline that could be cut for contribution or extended to 15 years for lower-skilled roles. The consultation closed in February 2026, the final policy is still awaited, and it may apply to people already in the UK. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh publicly criticised longer waits in October 2026.
10 Opinions
Make it 25
What is the point of that? I should think that after 5 years there was enough proof to say whether or not they were going to be a useful member of society.
If anything I'd suggest it should be even longer. The idea that someone can go from arriving to ILR in just a few years almost as a default (and then citizenship) just doesn't sit right with me.
Illegal entrants to the UK should be barred from ever getting ILR, and it should be immediately revoked for anyone found guilty of a crime that carries a prison sentence. ILR should also have a mandatory test of English or Welsh. Ten years seems fair - it's the term of a passport so it shows a solid level of intent to stay and contribute. If you follow the rules, integrate, and work hard, Britain should welcome you.
and anyone entering illegally should never be allowed to stay.
We cannot afford to have the Boriswave settle
It’s performative cruelty from a rightwing Labour government chasing votes from the Reform gremlins.
And leave to remain should always be conditional on non involvement in criminality, learning English, and working and paying taxes.