Home Affairs Committee Launches Inquiry into Government’s Proposed Reforms to Indefinite Leave to Remain

The House of Commons Home Affairs Committee has announced a new inquiry to examine the Government’s proposals to reform the eligibility criteria for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), an immigration status that allows individuals to settle permanently in the United Kingdom.

Currently, most immigrants become eligible for ILR after five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK. ILR grants the right to live and work in the country without time restrictions and provides access to public funds such as benefits and tax credits. Holders of ILR may also apply for British citizenship after holding this status for 12 months.

The Government has proposed a series of significant reforms to these eligibility rules. It argues that these changes will ensure that those seeking permanent settlement make a proportionate contribution to the UK before receiving the long-term benefits of settlement.

Under the proposals, the standard qualifying period for ILR would be extended from five to ten years. However, immigrants who make exceptional contributions to the UK’s economy and society could qualify for a shorter route to settlement through a new “points-based” earned settlement system.

Factors expected to be taken into account include:

• Ongoing employment;
• National Insurance contributions; and
• Community engagement, such as volunteering or other forms of civic participation.

Applicants would also be required to meet a higher standard of English language proficiency than is currently mandated. The Government has launched a consultation on these proposals and is seeking views on how best to implement them.

The Home Affairs Committee’s inquiry will examine the evidence base for the proposed reforms and their potential impacts on immigration levels, the UK economy, community integration and the wellbeing of migrant households.

Launching the inquiry, Dame Karen Bradley MP, Chair of the Committee, stated:

“Changing the rules governing who has the right to Indefinite Leave to Remain is likely to have a complex and wide-ranging impact. We have launched this inquiry to understand how well the Government’s proposals will help them achieve their goals for immigration and their broader policy aims.

We will not just examine how it will affect immigration in the UK, but wider questions about the economy, integration and the impact on those looking to apply to live and work in the UK.”

The Committee is inviting written submissions on a range of issues, including:

Potential impact of changes to pathways to settlement:

• What evidence exists on how pathways to settlement influence immigration and long-term settlement rates?
• How might longer settlement routes affect UK businesses and employers, particularly in recruiting international talent?
• What would be the financial, social and economic impacts of longer qualifying periods and stricter requirements on existing migrant households?
• What potential effects might these reforms have on social and community integration?
• What lessons can be drawn from international approaches to settlement and integration?

• How should “long-term contribution” to the UK be defined and measured?
• What weight should be given to social and community contributions compared to fiscal and economic ones?
• What exemptions, if any, should apply to the new rules?
• How have other countries implemented similar contribution-based systems?

The deadline for written submissions is 2 December. Details on how to submit evidence can be found on the Committee’s official website.

The proposed reforms to Indefinite Leave to Remain could reshape how the UK balances contribution, integration, and fairness. The Government says the changes will strengthen the integrity of the immigration system. However, they may also create challenges for migrants already settled in the UK or planning long-term residence. The inquiry’s outcome will play a vital role in shaping the UK’s future immigration policy and social landscape.

If you are currently on a visa route leading to settlement or plan to apply for ILR in the future, it is essential to stay informed about these proposed reforms and their potential implications. At Morgan Smith Immigration, our experts can help you understand how the proposed changes might affect your pathway to settlement and provide tailored advice to ensure you are fully prepared. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK Visa Applications. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].