Around 35 Labour MPs raised concerns in the UK’s House of Commons during a recent debate, as reported by BBC News. They have described the move as “moving the goalposts.”
A public letter opposing the proposals has been signed by politicians from different parties, including:
- Jeremy Corbyn
- John McDonnell
- Liz Saville Roberts
- Neil Duncan-Jordan
The letter was also signed by Unison, the UK’s largest trade union, which represents many public sector and care workers.
Many critics say it is unfair to change the rules for people who moved to the UK under a different system. They argue that migrants made life decisions based on the understanding that settlement would be available after five years.
The UK Government is considering major changes to the rules for settlement in the United Kingdom. Settlement, officially called Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allows a person to live, work, and study in the UK without time limits. It also gives access to public benefits, if eligible, and is usually the final step before applying for British citizenship.
Right now, most migrants can apply for settlement after living in the UK legally for five years. But under the government’s proposed plans, that standard waiting period could double to 10 years. This has caused strong reactions from politicians, trade unions, and migrant communities.
Furthermore, on 2 February 2026, the UK’s House of Commons held a significant Westminster Hall debate on proposed reforms to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). At the centre of the discussion was the Government’s plan to introduce an “earned settlement” model — including doubling the standard qualifying period from five years to ten.
The issue gained momentum after two public petitions crossed the 100,000-signature threshold, triggering parliamentary scrutiny.
Concerns About the Social Care Sector
One of the biggest worries is the impact on health and social care workers. The UK already faces serious staff shortages in adult social care. According to Skills for Care, the sector has struggled with tens of thousands of vacancies in recent years. Many care homes and community services depend heavily on migrant workers.
Critics argue that forcing care workers to wait 15 years for settlement could discourage people from coming to the UK. It may also push current workers to leave.
The open letter warns that these proposals could bring the sector “closer to breaking point.” Care workers often work long hours in demanding conditions and earn modest salaries. For them, settlement is not just paperwork — it represents security for their families.
Retrospective Changes
Another major concern is that the rules may apply to people already in the UK who were expecting to apply for settlement soon.
On the other hand, the opponents say this retrospective approach undermines trust in the immigration system. Migrants who followed the rules and paid taxes may now face a much longer and uncertain path to permanent residency.
The positive thing is that the letter indeed calls on the government to pause the consultation process until a full impact assessment is published. It also urges ministers not to apply new rules to families who are already living and working in the UK.
What Changes Are Being Proposed?
The government wants to increase the standard waiting period for settlement from five years to 10 years. However, the changes do not stop there.
Under the proposal:
- Some migrants may qualify earlier if they meet certain criteria, such as being high earners.
- People who arrived on health and social care visas may have to wait 15 years before applying.
- Migrants who relied on benefits for more than 12 months could face a 20-year wait.
- The new rules would apply to people already living in the UK who have not yet received a settlement.
- Those who already have ILR would not be affected.
The government argues that migrants should “contribute” before earning the right to stay permanently. Officials say the scale of migration is putting pressure on housing, public services, and local communities.
The Bigger Picture
Immigration remains one of the most debated topics in British politics. Governments often balance economic needs, public opinion, and pressures on services when designing immigration policy.
On one hand, the UK economy depends on migrant workers in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, construction, and agriculture. On the other hand, rising migration numbers have led to political pressure to tighten rules.
The outcome of this proposal could shape the future of UK immigration policy for years to come. For migrants currently living in Britain, the message is clear: stay informed, seek professional immigration advice if needed, and watch closely as the consultation process unfolds.