New arrivals could face 15-year wait for UK settlement under new immigration system

Thousands of people living and working in the UK could face up to 15 years before qualifying for permanent settlement. This could be the impact of major immigration reforms expected to take effect in April 2026.

The UK government plans to introduce a new “Earned Settlement” framework. It’ll replace the traditional five-year route to Indefinite Leave to Remain with a system that links settlement eligibility to economic contribution, income and integration.

Under the proposals, the standard settlement timeline for many arrivals will increase to 10 years. Although some individuals could qualify faster while others may wait significantly longer, depending on their circumstances.

Kadmos Immigration is a law firm that advises individuals and companies on immigration legislation. It says the reforms represent one of the most significant changes to the UK settlement system in decades.

Helena Sheizon, Immigration expert at Kadmos, explains:

This reform represents a fundamental shift from a time-based route to permanent residence, to one focused on earned contribution. It aims to reward economic contribution and integration, but it also means that thousands of people already on paths to settlement will face new qualifying conditions and longer waits if they do not meet newly introduced criteria.

What is the new ‘Earned Settlement’ system?

Under the current immigration framework, most people on routes such as the Skilled Worker visa or family visas can apply for permanent residence after five years of lawful residence.

The proposed reforms introduce a new points-based settlement model, meaning the amount of time required before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain could vary depending on factors such as income, employment and immigration history.

The government’s proposals suggest:

• A 10-year baseline settlement route for most people coming to live in the UK.
• A reduced pathway of around three years for individuals with very high earnings or exceptional contribution.
• Extended timelines of up to 15 years or more for those with lower income levels or irregular employment history.

The new framework moves away from a purely time-based system towards one where settlement must effectively be “earned” through measurable contribution.

Sheizon adds:

What makes this system distinctive is the idea of earning settlement by measurable contribution. It will require people to demonstrate not just residence but economic engagement with the UK.

Key factors that could affect settlement timelines

Under the Earned Settlement model, the length of time required before applying for permanent residence may depend on several measurable factors. These include:

• Income levels: higher taxable earnings over time could reduce the settlement timeline.
• Public service employment: roles in sectors such as health or education may accelerate eligibility.
• English language proficiency: higher language ability could contribute positively.
• Immigration history: visa breaches, irregular entry or reliance on public funds may extend timelines.

In practice, this means two people arriving in the UK at the same time could reach settlement at very different points depending on their contribution profile.

Several reforms linked to the new system have already begun to take effect or are scheduled for early 2026. These include:

• A higher B2 English language requirement for key visa routes such as Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual and Scale-up visas.
• Increased minimum income thresholds tied to visa eligibility and settlement pathways.
• Expanded compliance and enforcement measures affecting sponsoring employers.

Who will be most affected?

The reforms could impact a wide range of people currently living and working in the UK. Groups likely to be most affected include:

• Skilled workers and their dependents, who may face longer waits for settlement unless they meet higher earnings criteria.
• Family visa holders, who could see settlement timelines extended and additional income tests introduced.
• Lower-paid workers, including those in sectors such as social care or middle-skilled roles, who could face the longest qualifying periods.

The proposed reforms follow a wider immigration strategy outlined in the government’s recent White Paper, and consultations carried out throughout late 2025. Developments leading up to April 2026 include:

• Higher English language requirements for work visa routes from January 2026.
• A reduction in Skilled Worker visa eligibility for some occupations since July 2025.
• A consultation on the Earned Settlement system which closed in February 2026.

There is due to be a formal Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules in March 2026, ahead of the new system’s launch.

Sheizon explains:

The Immigration Reform expected from April 2026 marks a major turning point. The shift to an earned settlement model changes not only how long people must wait for permanent residence but what they must do.

For individuals and families planning long-term lives in the UK, this means greater complexity and new conditions. It also means that migrants cannot assume a simple five-year route to settlement will exist in the future, even if they entered under earlier expectations.

What individuals and employers should do now

With the new rules approaching, immigration law specialists say both visa holders and employers should review their settlement plans early.

Sheizon adds:

Employers and visa holders should review their settlement plans now and where possible schedule for early settlement, as this is in the interests of both the employers and employees.

Kadmos Immigration recommends:

• Reviewing current settlement timelines to identify whether earlier applications may be possible.
• Seeking legal advice for individuals approaching settlement eligibility.
• Monitoring government announcements following the upcoming Statement of Changes expected in March.

Featured image via the Canary