Thousands at Risk of Delayed Settlement in UK as Migration Policy Changes

Strategic Insights -

Hundreds of thousands of individuals who moved to the UK since 2020 with a potential path to permanent settlement within five years are now at risk of waiting another half-decade due to the government's proposed migration crackdown. Sir Keir Starmer's new policies aim to double the default period for migrants to live and work in the UK before applying for settlement status, which would open eligibility for benefits and a path to citizenship. The new rules, set to apply to those currently in the UK, could see about 1 million people who could have expected to receive settlement in the next few years delayed by an additional five years. Experts warn that the policy will not aid integration and will only boost Home Office revenue from the extended period during which migrants must pay fees.

Key Takeaways:

  • The proposed migration policy aims to double the default period for migrants to live and work in the UK from five to ten years before applying for settlement status.
  • This change will affect approximately 1 million people who could have expected to receive settlement in the next few years, mostly comprised of people on skilled worker visas, refugees, and those on specific visa routes from Hong Kong.
  • The new rules will apply to individuals currently in the UK, although there will be a consultation to ensure a "fair" introduction with some mitigations for those nearing the deadline.
  • The Home Office will consult on the detail of the new rules, including how migrants could qualify for a faster route to settlement based on their contributions to the economy and society.
  • Ministers recognize that some families may be making plans for a permanent life in Britain, which could be thrown into doubt by the change.
  • Between 2020 and 2024, 605,000 people were granted settled status, including 162,000 people in the final 12 months.

Statistics:

  • 605,000 people were granted settled status between 2020 and 2024
  • 162,000 people were granted settled status in the final 12 months (2023-2024)
  • Approximately 1 million people could be delayed by an additional five years due to the new policy

Sources:

  • Financial Times: "UK border control: Thousands at risk of delayed settlement"
  • Migration Observatory at Oxford University: Madeleine Sumption, director
  • Home Office data: Grants of settled status (2020-2024)
  • Colin Yeo, barrister and campaigner specialising in immigration law
  • Home Office: Plans for the new migration policy