The UK government has introduced rules requiring most migrants seeking permanent settlement to spend 10 years in the country, as settlement will no longer be automatic but must be earned under the new earned settlement model.

As a result, an estimated over 500,000 people will wait longer than five years to settle, taking billions off the welfare bill, noted the British government, stating, “No one will be forced to leave, and everyone will have a fair chance to apply for new visas that would allow them to settle after 10 years.”

UK’s Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said this in a statement on Monday, explaining that migrants’ eligibility would depend on their contribution and character.

“Settled status is one of the most valuable rights this country can offer. Until now, it has been given almost automatically. From today, it must be earned. Those who contribute most will settle fastest. Those who don’t play by the rules will be refused or wait much longer.

“This policy creates a migration system that is fair: fair to those who come here and play their part, and fair to British citizens already here, who must not be asked to bear a greater burden,” she said.

According to the new policy, the highest earners will be eligible to apply for settlement after three years, while individuals earning above £50,271 annually and some public service workers will be able to apply after five years.

Care workers earning at least £25,000 annually and meeting their Visa conditions will also be eligible for a five-year settlement in recognition of their contributions to Britain during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

However, migrants who have breached immigration rules would only become eligible for settlement after at least 20 years, while applicants must also meet four conditions, including a “spotless” criminal record, “speaking English to a high standard”, owing no debt to the taxpayer and having a record of “sustained national insurance contributions”.

In March this year, the UK raised visa application fees across categories, increasing study visa fees for main applicants and their dependants from £490 to £524.

Last October, the UK announced an increase in the minimum proof of funds required for Nigerian and other foreigners applying for student visas, raising the amount from £13,761 to £14,130 for living expenses.

In September, it tightened its eligibility requirements for qualified teacher status, barring Nigerian-trained teachers and other nationals from using the direct application service for QTS in England.

In June, the British government unveiled plans to open safe and legal routes for eligible refugees, while also changing human rights laws aimed at ensuring easy deportation for illegal immigrants.

Refugees on Home Office-approved routes would be able to settle after five years. Others would settle after 20 years, reduced to 10 years for those who work or study, the Home Office said on Monday.

“Anyone who arrived by small boat, or another clandestine means of entry, will face an additional 10-year waiting period—meaning they could wait up to 30 years for settlement,” it stated.