(Commonwealth_Europe) The UK government is in the process of developing new immigration policies aimed at making it more difficult for migrants to obtain permanent residency, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to demonstrate firm action on reducing immigration levels. The planned changes are part of a broader strategy by the Labour government to address growing public and political pressure over migration numbers and to counter the rising influence of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party, which has gained significant momentum in recent polls and local elections.
Currently, migrants who live and work in the UK are eligible to apply for “indefinite leave to remain” after five years of residence. This status effectively grants them permanent residency, allowing them to stay in the country without time limits, access public services like the National Health Service (NHS), and eventually apply for British citizenship. However, under the new proposals being considered by the Home Office, this qualifying period could be extended to as much as ten years for certain groups of migrants. The change would represent one of the most significant tightening of immigration rules in recent years and is expected to be part of a broader package of immigration reforms that will be announced soon.
This shift in policy aligns with Starmer’s public statements over the past year, in which he emphasized the need to reduce immigration “significantly.” He has repeatedly criticized the previous Conservative government for failing to control migration levels, pointing to record-breaking figures that have fueled political backlash. In the 12 months leading up to June 2023, the UK recorded net migration of approximately 906,000 people—an all-time high. Although this number dropped slightly to 728,000 for the year ending June 2024, it remains well above historical averages and continues to draw scrutiny from both voters and political opponents.
The decision to harden immigration policies comes at a politically sensitive time. Reform UK, a populist right leaning party led by Nigel Farage, has been gaining traction among voters disillusioned with traditional parties, especially on issues such as border control and national identity. Starmer’s government appears to be responding to this challenge by signaling a more restrictive approach, hoping to reassure the public that Labour is committed to addressing concerns over the scale and impact of immigration.
Though the Home Office has not officially confirmed the details of the proposed reforms, a spokesperson indicated that the forthcoming policy package will aim to overhaul the UK’s immigration system comprehensively. The reforms will reportedly focus on aligning immigration policies with domestic skills needs, reducing dependence on foreign labour, and fostering economic growth by prioritizing investment in the local workforce. The government is expected to draw a clearer link between immigration rules and the country’s broader economic and social goals.
While these changes are likely to be welcomed by some sectors of the public and political spectrum, they may also face criticism from businesses, universities, and advocacy groups that rely on or support migrant communities. Concerns may arise around the potential impact on skilled labour supply, social integration, and the rights of long-term residents who contribute economically but face extended uncertainty under a longer residency qualification period.
The government’s plan, once formally announced, will set the stage for renewed debate over the future of immigration policy in the UK—an issue that remains deeply intertwined with questions of national identity, economic strategy, and political accountability.
