United Kingdom reviews proposal to extend permanent residency wait

The United Kingdom government is reviewing a proposal to extend the standard waiting period required for foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency, known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Currently, most qualifying migrants can apply for ILR after five years of continuous residence.

The proposed change aims to manage migration levels and reduce pressure on public services. If implemented, the extension would affect various visa categories, including skilled workers and those on family-based routes. Such a move could result in longer periods of legal uncertainty for migrants, higher costs for visa renewals, and delays in family reunification and social integration.