The Earned Settlement Proposals: Implications For Skilled Workers And Their Dependants

The Government plans to replace the current arrangements for settlement in the UK with an earned settlement model. Proposals include new mandatory minimum criteria and a general 10-year baseline qualifying period. A 15-year baseline qualifying period has been proposed for those sponsored in roles skilled below degree level. The baseline can reduce with positive contributionsto the UK or increase if negative factors apply. Sponsors need to be aware of how the proposed system works and understand how they and their sponsored workers may be impacted.

New Immigration Rules implementing the earned settlement model could come into effect as early as April 2026.

Act now: there is still time to comment on the proposals