The Reform UK party has announced a radical new policy. Specifically, the Reform UK Migration Overhaul would end indefinite leave to remain for migrants. Leader Nigel Farage unveiled the plan at a press conference. Consequently, the move would fundamentally change the UK’s immigration system.
Currently, migrants can apply for permanent settlement after five years. This status grants them the right to live and work indefinitely. Furthermore, it provides access to the welfare state. However, the Reform UK Migration Overhaul would abolish this entirely. Instead, migrants would hold temporary visas requiring renewal every five years.
Moreover, these visas would come with much stricter conditions. Applicants would face a higher salary threshold. They would also need to meet a tougher English language standard. Importantly, the policy would apply retrospectively. Therefore, hundreds of thousands of migrants already in the UK would be affected. They would need to reapply under the new, stricter rules.
Additionally, the party plans to bar non-citizens from accessing welfare. Farage argued the UK should not be “the world’s food bank.” He stated that endless cheap labour harms British workers. The party claims this Reform UK Migration Overhaul would save £234 billion over decades.
However, critics strongly challenged these figures. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the savings “have no basis in reality.” Indeed, the think tank that produced the estimate later withdrew it. Farage conceded the exact number was uncertain but insisted the cost was enormous.
The announcement specifically targets the “Boriswave” of migrants. This term refers to the 3.8 million people who arrived after Brexit. Many will soon qualify for permanent status. Reform’s policy chief, Zia Yusuf, said many would “lose their settled status.” Ultimately, those dependent on benefits might leave voluntarily. Others would face deportation.
Unsurprisingly, the plan has faced significant political backlash. The Conservative party accused Reform of copying their ideas in a “half-baked” way. Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats called the proposals “not serious.” They warned of economic damage and business disarray.
Clearly, the Reform UK Migration Overhaul represents a hardline approach. It creates deep uncertainty for many families living legally in Britain. The party acknowledges this will split families and disrupt communities. Nevertheless, they argue it is necessary for the nation’s long-term future. This policy sets a clear and controversial marker in the election debate.
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