// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
What are the planned changes to immigration rules?
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out the plans in the House of Commons
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has set out plans to overhaul immigration rules.
Proposals to change the requirements to qualify for permanent settlement in the UK were first outlined in detail in November 2025, when Mahmood was home secretary in Sir Keir Starmer's government.
Following a consultation, external, Mahmood has now announced her final decision on what changes should be taken forward.
Follow live updates and reaction to the announcement
Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) – also known as settlement – gives someone the right to live, work and study in the UK for as long as they like.
Under the current system, people with ILR can also apply for benefits if they are eligible.
People who have lived in the UK for 12 months after being given ILR can apply for British citizenship, if they also meet other requirements, external.
Under the government's plans, the standard length of time migrants will have to live in the UK to qualify for permanent settlement will double from five to 10 years.
Under this 10-year pathway, applicants must have earned at least £12,571 for five of the seven years immediately before being granted settlement.