Is the UK About to Scrap the 10-year Long Residence Route?
What This Could Mean for Migrans - GOOD ADVICE UK®'s view
If implemented, this would mark a fundamental shift in how long-term migrants qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — and could affect thousands of people who have lived in the UK lawfully for many years.
At GOOD ADVICE UK®, we work daily with individuals and families who rely on this route. We believe it is essential to explain what is being proposed, why it matters, and what steps people should be considering now.
We also welcome your views.
What Is the 10-Year Long Residence Route?
The Long Residence route currently allows individuals who have completed 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK — often across different visa categories — to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
For many, it represents recognition of lawful presence, integration, and long-term commitment to the UK.
What Is Being Proposed?
The reported proposal is to remove the standalone Long Residence route and replace it with a new “earned settlement” framework.
Under this model:
- Settlement would be assessed by economic contribution and integration, rather than residence alone
- A 10-year baseline may apply to many migrants
- Faster settlement could be available to those meeting higher income or skills thresholds
- Some migrants may face longer qualifying periods
What remains unclear is whether people already well advanced on the 10-year route will be protected through transitional arrangements.
Why This Matters to Migrants
If the Long Residence route is removed without proper safeguards, it could mean that:
- Years of lawful residence are no longer sufficient on their own
- People close to qualifying may face unexpected delays
- Immigration planning becomes more complex and uncertain
- Lawful migrants who followed the rules in good faith may be disadvantaged
From our experience, many individuals have structured their careers, family life, and future plans around the expectation that 10 years of lawful residence leads to settlement.
What Should You Do Now?
Until the Immigration Rule are formally changed:
- If you are approaching 10 years of lawful residence, you should seek professional advice as soon as possible
- Those who become eligible should consider applying under the current rules without delay
- Early planning is critical to avoid being caught by policy changes
At GOOD ADVICE UK®, we are already supporting clients who are concerned about how these proposals may affect them.
We Want to Hear From You
This issue affects real people and real lives.
We would welcome your views:
- Should long-term lawful residence still lead to settlement?
- Is an “earned settlement” model fair and transparent?
- How should the Home Office protect people already on the 10-year route?
Please share your thoughts in the comments — especially if you or your family may be affected.
This article is published by GOOD ADVICE UK® for general information and discussion purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration advice should always be tailored to individual circumstances.
Should you need guidance pertaining to your Individual, Business or Humanitarian UK immigration matter,
To arrange meeting with our lawyers, contact us by telephone at
+44 2077202156 or by email at office@goodadviceuk.com.
If you have instructed us before, we would be pleased to know your feedback about your experience.
