According to a government news release dated 29 September 2025, the new 'earned settlement' framework will feature the following key points:

• The default qualifying period for settlement will be extended from five to ten years, though some immigration routes may remain outside the scope of these proposals.
• The qualifying period could be shortened if certain criteria are met, such as:
  
  • Being employed;
  • Making above-threshold National Insurance contributions;
  • Not receiving benefits payments;
  • Achieving a high level of English language proficiency;
  • Having no criminal record;
  • Demonstrating 'giving back' to UK society, for example through community work.
• The period may be lengthened if an individual has been 'non-compliant' at any point (specifics on non-compliance are not provided). Such non-compliance may, in some cases, result in the refusal of settlement.

Stakeholders have already expressed concerns about the earned settlement model, notably through two petitions debated in Parliament on 8 September 2025. One petition urged that earned settlement should not be applied to those already sponsored under the Skilled Worker route, and another requested exclusions for individuals granted immigration permission under the British Nationals (Overseas) route.

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The government has not made any commitments to these groups following the debates, stating only that stakeholder views will be considered as part of the upcoming public consultation, which will be launched by the end of 2025.

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Contact and Disclaimer

Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by email at gccinfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.

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For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

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The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.