UK Govt Confirms ILR Reforms Will Be Retrospective

Mahmood Stresses The Longer Wait For ILR

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, speaking at the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), confirmed the changes may impact those who came to the UK between 2022 and 2024 who have not yet gained settled service.

“We have proposed that some will earn settlement at or earlier than five years, including public servants, like doctors and nurses, and those who are contributing the most to the nation’s finances. Others will have to wait longer before they can apply for settlement,” explained Ms Mahmood at the IPPR event.

Ongoing Changes to UK Immigration Rules

The government is currently reviewing responses to its consultation on the ILR pathway, and any planned reforms are likely to be meet with opposition from many backbenchers.

Under the proposed new rules, the qualifying period for ILR is expected to increase from five years to ten years for many applicants. They will also need to provide evidence of a clean criminal record, regular income and non-reliance on public funds.

There are also a number of planned changes to the UK immigration rules set to be introduced by the end of the year. These include an increase in the English language requirements, shortening of the Graduate Visa time validity as well as ongoing reduction in the qualifying job roles covered by the Skilled Worker Visa.

How Can IAS Help With Your ILR Application?

With the changes currently being debated, now may be a good time to apply for ILR settlement to ensure you have started the process. It is expected the retrospective changes will require more supporting evidence to show how you meet the requirements. At IAS, we can help with document checking and provide step-by-step guidance in making a successful application to remain in the UK.

For more details on how further immigration changes could affect you, our team of immigration lawyers can provide personalised support. Contact us at +44 (0)333 414 9244 or online to find out more.