Around 1.5 million foreign workers in the UK could soon face an extended wait for permanent settlement. Under new Labour proposals, the required residency period may increase from five to ten years.
The changes, outlined in a recent immigration white paper, aim to tighten rules on automatic citizenship rights. However, officials have not yet confirmed if the policy will apply retroactively.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper will consult stakeholders on whether the rules affect migrants who arrived since 2020. If approved, many who expected eligibility this year may now wait until 2030.
Labour MP Florence Eshalomi raised concerns in Parliament. She said constituents in Vauxhall and Camberwell Green fear uncertainty over their status. Some even consider leaving the UK due to the potential delay.
The proposed rules go further than previous Conservative plans, which suggested a 2021 cutoff. Critics argue the extended wait for permanent settlement could deter skilled workers.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced backlash for his immigration speech this week. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage praised his rhetoric, while Plaid Cymru accused him of demonizing migrants.
Starmer defended his stance, saying uncontrolled migration risks social cohesion. He emphasized fairness and integration in the new system. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood echoed his call for a “nation of neighbours.”
Meanwhile, universities warn that new student visa policies could worsen financial struggles. A proposed 6% levy on international tuition fees may strain budgets further.
Former universities minister Jo Johnson said the tax could weaken UK competitiveness. King’s College London’s vice-chancellor warned about perceptions abroad.
Additionally, reducing post-study work visas from two years to 18 months may further deter students. Declining enrollments already threaten the higher education sector.
In a separate move, Starmer will visit Albania to discuss small boat crossings. The country has seen a 95% drop in arrivals after faster repatriation deals.
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