UK Government Reviews 10-Year Settlement Proposal for Migrants

The UK Government is currently reviewing proposed immigration reforms that could extend the standard qualifying period for settlement from five years to ten years for migrants, including Nigerians. Under the government's "earned settlement" plans, the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) would increase to ten years.

Certain migrants, particularly lower-paid or lower-skilled workers in Health and Care roles, could face an even longer wait of up to fifteen years. Additionally, migrants who have received public funds for more than twelve months might encounter an additional ten years, potentially extending their qualifying period to twenty years.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, speaking at Labour’s annual conference, recognized concerns that some aspects of these reforms could be perceived as unfair. She stated that the government aims to balance fairness to legal migrants and British citizens.

The review indicates that the proposed settlement periods have not been discarded and may still be modified before the final immigration rules are announced.