In her first major speech as Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood announced a series of reforms that will significantly change how migrants can earn the right to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK. Speaking at the Labour Party Conference, she said migrants would need to prove their contribution to British society in order to secure permanent settlement.
New Conditions for Settlement
Currently, migrants are eligible for indefinite leave to remain after living in the UK for five years. Under Labour’s new plans, that period will double to ten years. In addition to the longer wait, applicants will face stricter requirements, including:
- High-level English proficiency to ensure integration into British life.
- A clean criminal record, with no tolerance for offences.
- Community involvement, such as volunteering or contributing through social initiatives.
- Financial independence, meaning no reliance on welfare benefits and consistent National Insurance contributions.
Labour says these measures are designed to demonstrate that migrants who stay permanently are not just living in Britain, but actively enriching the country.
Drawing a Contrast with Reform UK
Mahmood was clear that these reforms are also about setting Labour apart from Reform UK. Reform has pledged to abolish indefinite leave to remain altogether, replacing it with renewable visas. This would mean that even migrants who have lived, worked, and raised families in the UK for decades would face uncertainty every five years.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described Reform’s proposal as “racist” and “immoral,” while Chancellor Rachel Reeves added that it is wrong to equate long-term, law-abiding migrants with illegal immigration. She emphasised that while those in the UK illegally should be removed, those who have lived legally and contributed for years deserve stability.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage dismissed Labour’s criticism, arguing that the party “does not believe in border controls.” His colleague, Zia Yusuf, claimed that Labour is ignoring the public’s legitimate concerns about high immigration levels.
Balancing Security and Inclusion
Mahmood framed her policy as an effort to protect Britain’s values of openness and tolerance while addressing public concerns about immigration. She acknowledged that immigration had become a dividing issue, with growing numbers of people believing the system is not working for them.
“The story of Britain as an open, generous country is at risk of being reshaped into something smaller, more rooted in ethno-nationalism,” she said. “If we do not rise to this challenge, our vision of a greater Britain will wither.”
She highlighted the frustration in working-class communities who, feeling neglected, may turn to Reform UK’s promises. To prevent this, Mahmood argued, Labour must show that it can secure borders, cut illegal immigration, and create fair rules for those who want to stay.
Tackling Crime and Integration
In addition to immigration reforms, Mahmood spoke about law and order, recalling her own childhood experiences in her family’s corner shop where theft was common. She promised a “winter of action” against shoplifting, bringing together police and local businesses to tackle crime that directly affects communities.
Her personal anecdotes underscored her broader message: security, contribution, and integration must go hand in hand for Britain to remain united.
What This Means for Migrants
If implemented, these changes mean migrants will face a more demanding path to settlement. However, there may be opportunities for highly skilled workers or those making exceptional contributions to secure ILR earlier than ten years, according to Labour’s consultation.
The Migration Observatory estimates that about 4.5 million people currently hold indefinite leave to remain, with around 430,000 being non-EU nationals. For those yet to qualify, the road ahead looks longer and more challenging.
How Staf H Immigration Can Help
Immigration rules in the UK are changing rapidly, and navigating the new requirements for indefinite leave to remain can be overwhelming. Staf H Immigration provides expert advice and legal support on all aspects of UK visas, settlement, and appeals.
Whether you are applying for ILR, a family visa, or need representation for complex immigration matters, Staf H Immigration is here to guide you through every step.
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- UK spouse and family visas
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