Log in or register
Share on LinkedInShare on LinkedIn

ARTICLE · 30 OCTOBER 2026

ILR Changes 2026: Where Earned Settlement Stands Now

Field Seymour Parkes
Explore more from Field Seymour Parkes

The UK Government has confirmed that changes to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) will take effect in Autumn 2026 and apply retrospectively to those already in the UK. While the qualifying period has not yet moved to 10 years, the proposed "earned settlement" model would significantly extend timelines for most routes, with reductions available for high earners and extensions for those claiming public funds.

United KingdomImmigration
Callum De Freitas
Callum De Freitas

The Home Secretary has confirmed that changes to settlement (or ILR) will be implemented in Autumn 2026, and that these will apply retrospectively to those already in the UK.

Where does earned settlement stand now?

The short answer: the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) has not yet moved to 10 years. As of the date of publication, the Government’s “earned settlement” plans are still proposals, and the existing 5-year routes remain open.

 The Home Secretary has said the final policy, including any transitional arrangements, will be published later in 2026.

One change is already confirmed, though: from 26 March 2027, applicants on most routes will need to demonstrate knowledge of English at CEFR level B2.

We operate a free-to-view policy, asking only that you register in order to read all of our content. Please login or register to view the rest of this article.

Register for freeORLog in

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

View source

Related Articles

Legal Intelligence Newsletters: sign up for the latest legal and regulatory news on your chosen topics

Read more about

Related Comparative Guides

See more popular content from

Article

Important UK Immigration Rule Changes From Autumn 2026 – But Nothing Yet On Earned Settlement

The UK Home Office has published Statement of Changes HC 584, introducing targeted amendments to immigration rules effective from autumn 2026. These changes affect multiple visa routes including EU Settlement Scheme, Skilled Worker, Victim of Domestic Abuse, and Student visas, with new protections for vulnerable applicants and procedural updates for sponsors and education providers.
United KingdomImmigration
Richmond Chambers Immigration Barristers
Richmond Chambers Immigration Barristers
Article

Revised Earned Settlement Policy To Be Unveiled Before The End Of 2026

The UK Home Secretary has confirmed that the revised earned settlement policy will be published before the end of 2026, following her appearance before the Home Affairs Committee. This announcement provides clarity on the timeline for implementing significant changes to the UK immigration system, including transitional arrangements and the extension of the default settlement period from five to ten years.
United KingdomImmigration
Lewis Silkin
Lewis Silkin
Article

Summary Of Autumn 2026 Immigration Rule Changes

The UK Home Office has introduced significant changes to its Immigration Rules, including new protections for Skilled Worker visa holders who are victims of modern slavery, measures to prevent abuse of fee waiver processes, and updates to support the UK's participation in Erasmus+ from January 2027. These changes also expand permitted activities for visitors coming to the UK for training or creative purposes.
United KingdomImmigration
Lewis Silkin
Lewis Silkin