Quick summary
This page explains the core change (5 → 10 years), who is most affected (skilled workers, BNO holders, in-flight applicants), likely transition points, and how to use the site tools to compare timelines. Use the compare ILR timelines tool to run your personal dates now.
Plain-language explanation of the proposal
The proposed model would raise the baseline qualifying period for many settlement routes from five to ten years. Some applicants could still qualify earlier via “earned” or higher-contribution exemptions (salary, points, scientific/PhD contribution), but the default baseline would extend.
Who will feel the biggest effect?
- Skilled Worker migrants: longer waits unless they qualify for earned exemptions — use the Visa Points Calculator guide to check whether your role/salary would meet any accelerated bands.
- BNO visa holders: large cohorts who planned on five-year settlement would be delayed unless transition protections apply.
- Applicants mid-process: whether time already served counts depends on transition rules; preserve evidence and track application status closely.
Parliamentary context & latest status
MPs debated the proposals on 8 September 2025. Debate transcripts and Commons Library briefings provide the public record and help assess the legislative likelihood and timing. Read the official debate transcript and Commons Library analysis for precise wording and any indications on transition protections.
Sources: Hansard — Commons debate (8 Sept 2025), Commons Library briefings.
How to use the calculator on this site
Our tools let you model both scenarios side-by-side:
- Compute your qualifying end date under 5-year and 10-year baselines.
- Verify rolling 12-month absence windows (180-day test) for each timeline.
- Use the Visa Points Calculator guide to test whether you’d qualify for any “earned” exemptions that speed up settlement.
Run the model: compare ILR timelines with your start date and absence history.
Illustrative scenarios
Scenario A — Skilled worker on £42,000
Under 5 years: likely eligible after five continuous years (subject to absences). Under 10 years: would be delayed unless salary/points qualify for an "earned" exemption — run the points test in the Visa Points Calculator Guide.
Scenario B — BNO holder with 3 years of residence
A move to 10 years would materially delay settlement for many BNO holders unless transitional credit is granted. Preserve evidence (passports, BRPs, payslips).
Transition protections & immediate actions
If you’re approaching five years, prepare now:
- Preserve documentary evidence: payslips, P60s, CoS, tenancy and school records.
- Run your dates and absence windows with the Absence Calculator Guide.
- Use the Visa Points Calculator Guide to test “earned” exemption chances.
- Monitor Parliament and GOV.UK updates closely for any transitional rules.
Checklist — what to do today
- Compare ILR timelines (5 vs 10 years) using your start date and logged absences.
- Check if your role/salary could meet an “earned” exemption (see Visa Points Calculator Guide).
- Secure and index all documentary evidence (travel, employment, tax).
- Follow the Hansard debate and Commons Library updates for legislative progress.