Key Change: 5 Years Extended to 10 Years
The Shabana Mahmood reforms, introduced in March 2026, represent a fundamental shift in UK border policy, moving away from fast-track settlement toward an "Earned Settlement" principle — extending the standard pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain from five years to ten years for most visa categories.
In practice, most people arriving on Skilled Worker or Family visas must now demonstrate a continuous residence history in the UK without relying on public funds for double the previous timeframe.
Who Is Affected?
The reforms raise the self-sufficiency financial threshold and mandate a B2 English language level for those seeking permanent residency in the UK. This impacts:
- Skilled workers (Skilled Worker visa holders)
- Family-sponsored migrants (Family visa holders)
- Refugees (though separate rules apply)
Why Are Immigrants Rushing to Apply Now?
The reforms are designed to make it harder for migrants to obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), with mounting pressure from within the Labour Party to ensure the changes do not apply to individuals already living in the UK. This creates a "window" for those already resident in the UK who will soon meet the criteria under the old rules — they can apply for settlement before the new legislation takes full effect.
Important Caveats
These proposals are not yet in effect, but changes to policy are expected to begin rolling out from April 2026. However, there is pressure from within the Labour Party to soften the controversial reforms, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer continuing to consult on the proposed changes. This means final details remain uncertain.
Additionally, the "earned settlement" changes are designed to prevent recent migrants working in roles considered low-skilled — particularly adult social care — from accessing the benefits system after five years in the UK. If you have relied on public assistance, your application will face greater scrutiny.