Could it be all change for indefinite leave to remain?

In her piece for People Management, Immigration Partner Zoe Jacob explores the government’s proposal to overhaul the UK’s settlement system and replace the fixed five‑year route with a new “earned settlement” framework.

The proposals were first set out alongside a public consultation opened last November, with the consultation closing on 12 February 2026. She explains that ministers are considering a 10‑year baseline qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain, with the possibility of shortening it only for those who meet high taxable income thresholds. Zoe highlights that applicants earning £125,140 for three consecutive years could qualify within three years, while those earning £50,270 for five years may reach settlement in five years instead.

Zoe also notes the proposed introduction of a stricter B2 English language requirement, a clearer expectation of a clean criminal record, and the government’s intention for these changes to apply not only to new migrants but also to individuals already in the UK on routes leading to settlement. She emphasises that, while these ideas have been in consultation since last year, they remain proposals for now. She stresses that HR teams should start assessing their skilled worker populations now, including salary levels, language capability, any declared convictions and the cost impact of staff potentially moving onto a 10‑year path. With reforms anticipated from autumn 2026, Zoe urges organisations to begin planning early as they wait to see how the government responds to consultation feedback.

The full article was first published in People Management in March 2026.