Countries worldwide are rapidly introducing new immigration policies, creating setbacks for those planning to settle abroad. After Iran revoked visa-free entry for Indian citizens earlier this week, the United Kingdom has announced a sweeping overhaul of its immigration system. The UK government has proposed one of the most stringent reforms in its migration policy, delivering a major blow to many—especially Indians—seeking permanent residency. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who tabled the proposal in Parliament on Thursday, said the changes aim to curb rising immigration levels amid growing public pressure and political demands for tougher controls.
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Under the proposed Earned Settlement Model, the minimum residency requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) will be doubled from five to ten years. The move is expected to significantly affect hundreds of thousands of Indian professionals and students currently living in the UK. The new system categorises migrants by income and occupation, with those in low-salary roles potentially waiting up to 15 years for permanent settlement. Migrants receiving government benefits could face an extended 20-year waiting period. For most skilled workers, the automatic qualifying period would rise to ten years from the current five.
The UK government has, however, outlined key exemptions. Professionals in essential sectors such as economic and public health services—including NHS workers—as well as high-earning business professionals will remain unaffected by the reforms. These individuals will continue to qualify for permanent residency within five years or even earlier under existing regulations.