The UK doubles the period for obtaining permanent residence: new requirements for migrants

The UK is preparing the most significant tightening of immigration rules in recent years. To obtain ILR status, applicants will now be required to have 10 years of legal residence, an impeccable reputation, and proof of contribution to the economy. Find out how the government plans to change the permanent residence system

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

GET

Violators and people who do not speak English “at a high level” will be denied permanent residence in the UK. This was announced on September 29, 2025, by British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who presented proposals aimed at curbing migration.

Double the time to obtain status

The proposed settlement model is contribution-based and aims to reduce net migration, strengthen integration, and reduce pressure on public services.

Under the new conditions, applicants will have to have been legally resident in the country for at least 10 years — twice as long as at present.

Requirements for applicants

Individuals will be able to reduce the period if they meet the income or integration requirements. On the other hand, those who have broken the rules will have to wait longer or will be refused.

To obtain indefinite leave to remain (ILR), it will be necessary to demonstrate integration into society — through the payment of national insurance, official work, or volunteering, rather than through social benefits.

Applying for permanent residence in the UK is a complex process with numerous requirements and nuances. Our lawyers specialize in immigration law and have a proven track record of successfully assisting clients in such matters. We will advise you on the best course of action for your specific situation, help you with the paperwork, and represent your interests so that you can confidently move toward your desired status.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Key conditions for permanent residence

The Home Secretary has announced a list of requirements for obtaining ILR:

- having a formal job;

- paying National Insurance contributions regularly;

- not receiving social benefits;

- having a high level of English language proficiency;

- having a clean criminal record;

- contributing to society (e.g., working in the local community).

Discussions on these proposals will begin before the end of the year and will be open to all interested parties.

The changes are seen as a response to statements by Nigel Farage and his Reform party, which proposed abolishing ILR for non-EU citizens and banning them from receiving social benefits even after obtaining status.

Previous steps taken by the government

These initiatives are a continuation of the reform announced in May 2025. At that time, the White Paper “Restoring Control over the Immigration System” was published, outlining the areas of change:

- increasing the period for obtaining ILR from 5 to 10 years;

- introducing an “earned settlement” model for those who prove their contribution to society;

- tightening requirements for all major visa categories — work, student, and family reunification.

Will the changes come into effect?

All of the above innovations remain political intentions for now. They are at the stage of public consultation and can only be implemented after amendments to the Immigration Rules or the adoption of new laws by Parliament.

If you are planning to obtain permanent residence in the UK, we recommend that you seek advice from professional lawyers. Our experts will help you understand the complex requirements, prepare all the necessary documents, and accompany you at every stage of the process. With our help, you can avoid mistakes that could result in your application being rejected and significantly increase your chances of success.

Reminder! The United Kingdom is gradually changing the entry conditions for Ukrainians in 2025. Find out if the United Kingdom is currently accepting Ukrainians, what visas are available, how to apply, and what restrictions are currently in place.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.