The Proposed settlement/ILR changes, and what you can do

This November, the government published plans and opened a consultation on proposed changes to settlement in the UK (also known as indefinite leave to remain – ILR). We know this has caused a lot of worry. This page explains what is being proposed, what is not changing yet, and how you can have your say.

What is being proposed?

The government is proposing to make settlement harder to reach for most people on visas.
Currently, many people can apply for settlement after 5 years. Under the proposals:The standard route could increase to 10 years
Some people could be required to wait 15, 20, or even 30 years for ILR
These are proposals only, not confirmed changes.

For a full explanation, read this:  Explainer: statement and consultation on “earned settlement” - GMIAU

Is anything changing right now?

No. These changes are not law. The government has shared its plans, but they are not all final yet. 

What can you do?

A public consultation is open until 12 February 2026, and changes are unlikely to take effect before then. The consultation is a chance for people affected, and anyone else worried about these changes to share their views.

Take part in the consultation here: Earned settlement - GOV.UK
Click on this link, and then click 'Respond Online'.

We’ve  created a simple guidance document to help you respond. You don’t have to answer every question - what matters is sharing real experiences and impacts.

Use our guidance below to help you respond to the questionnaire. Once the Government has reviewed all the responses, they are likely to announce and implement changes in Spring 2026.

Guidance