UK Immigration Overhaul Extends Waiting Period for Nigerians

On November 2, 2026, UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced a major overhaul of immigration settlement rules, requiring most foreign nationals, including Nigerians, to wait 10 years before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), doubling the previous five-year period. This new framework, termed Earned Settlement, links permanent residency to migrants' earnings, occupation, immigration history, and compliance with visa conditions.

While those earning above £50,000 and eligible skilled public service workers will retain the five-year pathway, higher earners making over £125,000 annually could qualify in as little as three years. Additionally, migrants who arrived before May 2025 and earn at least £25,000 annually may also keep the five-year route if they meet visa conditions.

The changes aim to make permanent residency an earned status rather than an automatic entitlement, with longer waits imposed on other categories, including those who have claimed benefits or have criminal records.