UK Reviews 10-Year Permanent Residency Plan for Nigerians, Other Migrants

By Opeyemi Adelakun

The United Kingdom Government is reviewing its proposed changes to the rules for migrants seeking permanent residency, including a plan to double the standard qualifying period from five to 10 years.

The proposed “Earned Settlement” system would replace the existing approach with a model under which migrants would be required to demonstrate sustained contribution, integration and compliance before obtaining indefinite leave to remain (ILR).

The UK Home Office has confirmed that the government is considering the responses received during its consultation on the reforms. More than 200,000 responses were submitted before the consultation closed in February 2026.

Under the proposal, the standard qualifying period for most migrants would rise from five years to 10 years. The government is also considering longer periods for some categories of workers, including certain lower-skilled occupations, while individuals who make significant economic or social contributions could qualify for reductions.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has acknowledged concerns surrounding the proposals, particularly their potential effect on migrants who entered the UK legally under the existing rules.

The government says the reforms are intended to make settlement something migrants earn through sustained contribution rather than an automatic entitlement after a fixed period.

Under the consultation framework, factors including employment, tax contributions, English-language ability, criminal record, integration and community involvement could affect how quickly an applicant qualifies for settlement.

The proposals could have significant implications for Nigerians and other foreign nationals working in the UK, particularly those who are currently on routes that traditionally provide a five-year pathway to settlement.

The government has, however, indicated that certain groups could benefit from shorter qualifying periods. Its consultation proposed reductions for some high-skilled migrants, entrepreneurs and others making substantial contributions to the UK economy and society.

The Home Office has also said the government is considering transitional arrangements for people who are already on a pathway to settlement.

The final rules have not yet been fully announced. The government is expected to publish its preferred approach after considering the consultation responses.