The UK government has identified five groups of foreign nationals who will retain access to permanent residence after five years under its planned immigration reforms.
The announcement follows the revised Earned Settlement policy, unveiled by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood on 2 November 2026. The government plans to increase the standard qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to 10 years for most migrants.
However, some groups will keep the shorter route in recognition of their earnings, professional contributions and immigration circumstances.
Five groups eligible for five-year settlement
1. High-earning foreign workers
Migrants earning more than £50,271 a year can apply for permanent residence after five years. They must have met the income threshold for at least three of the five years before applying.
2. Doctors, nurses and teachers
Foreign nationals working in qualifying healthcare and education roles will retain the five-year settlement route. The government specifically named doctors, nurses and teachers as essential public service workers.
3. Eligible care workers
Care workers who entered or switched to the social care route between 2022 and 2025 can still qualify after five years. They must have followed their visa conditions and earned at least £25,000 annually in the sector.
The exemption recognises their contribution during a period of serious staffing shortages following the COVID-19 pandemic.
4. Eligible family members of British citizens
Certain partners, parents and children of British citizens will retain the five-year pathway. Their eligibility will depend on the relevant family visa rules.
5. Refugees arriving through approved routes
People granted refugee status after arriving through government-approved safe and legal routes can apply for permanent residence after five years.
However, refugees arriving through irregular routes could face a 20-year qualifying period. Those entering through illegal means, including small boats, could face an additional 10 years.
Other migrants who retain existing routes
The government has also confirmed that some groups will keep their current settlement pathways. These include Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa holders, British Armed Forces members, people with a British connection and migrants covered by legacy routes, including Windrush arrangements.
New conditions for permanent residence
Applicants under the revised framework will face stricter requirements. The Home Office has outlined four key conditions:
- A clean criminal record.
- A high standard of English.
- No outstanding debts to the British government, including unpaid taxes.
- Evidence of sustained National Insurance contributions.
Migrants who breach immigration rules could face a 20-year qualifying period. Those who have claimed public funds must also show five continuous years without relying on benefits before applying.
When will the new rules begin?
The revised UK settlement rules are expected to take effect through changes to the Immigration Rules from 2027.
The House of Commons Library expects the government to begin publishing the changes in December 2026, with implementation continuing throughout 2027.
Until the new rules come into force, migrants can still apply for ILR under the existing requirements.
The government estimates that more than 500,000 migrants could face longer waiting periods under the reforms.
