The British government has announced plans to make it harder for migrants to gain permanent residence with new conditions that go beyond simply living in the country for a set number of years.
Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood, speaking at the Labour Party conference said that future applicants will need to prove they contribute positively to society before being granted “indefinite leave to remain” a status that currently allows most migrants to settle after five years.
Under the proposals, candidates would need to meet several requirements:
- Pay social security contributions.
- Maintain a clean criminal record.
- Avoid claiming government benefits.
- Demonstrate a “high standard” of English.
- Show evidence of volunteering or community service.
Mahmood stressed that permanent settlement should not be automatic. “Time spent in this country alone is not enough,” she told party members, adding that the right to stay must be earned.
The government also intends to extend the minimum residency period from five years to ten years before migrants can apply for permanent status. This means that even those who have lived in Britain for more than a decade could be denied if they fail to meet the new criteria.
The proposals come as Labour faces growing political pressure from Reform UK, a party that has gained support with its tough stance on immigration. Reform has suggested replacing permanent residence with a renewable five-year visa.
Officials say a public consultation will take place later this year before any final decision is made. The changes they argue are necessary to restore control over borders and maintain public confidence in Britain’s immigration system.
