SMF blog looks at reasons for proposed doubling of UK settlement qualification period
Jonathan Thomas, a senior fellow at the Social Market Foundation (SMF), has analyzed in a blog the UK government’s proposal—outlined in its Immigration White Paper released in May 2025—to extend the standard qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) from five to ten years. It has not been ruled out that the proposal, which also includes a points-based system that could reduce the qualifying period for those making notable economic or social contributions, will not apply retroactively to migrants already residing in the UK, although the proposal as a whole will be subject to consultation. The analysis suggests that, while the proposed change is only minimally effective at reducing overall immigration numbers, it appears to be driven primarily by fiscal concerns. The proposal comes amid concerns from some quarters, including reportedly within the government, over the fiscal impact of an increase in post-COVID arrivals, many of whom are arriving on lower-skilled, lower-paid routes.