UK Rethinks Plan To Extend Permanent Residency Wait To 10 Years
Relief for thousands of Nigerians as UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood signals rethink on controversial 10, 15 and 20-year settlement rules after backlash.
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UK Immigration Update
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3 min read
If you are a Nigerian in the UK on a Skilled Worker or Care Worker visa, there is good news in view.
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced that the government is reconsidering its proposed changes that would have made it harder for foreign workers, including Nigerians, to obtain permanent residency — Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
What Was Proposed?
The government’s Earned Settlement proposal wanted to change the rules drastically:
- Standard Route: ILR wait to increase from 5 years to 10 years
- Health & Care Workers (many Nigerians): Up to 15-year wait
- Migrants who claimed benefits for 12+ months: Up to 20-year wait
- The plan would have applied retrospectively to those who arrived since 2021
This caused panic in the Nigerian community, as many who came during the 2022-2024 care visa wave were expecting to apply for ILR next year.
Why The U-Turn Is Happening
The proposals faced heavy opposition from within Labour itself. More than 100 Labour MPs and major trade unions like Unison opposed the plan, calling it unfair to overseas care workers who were invited to the UK to support the NHS and care homes.
Former Deputy PM Angela Rayner publicly called the retrospective change “un-British” and accused the government of “moving the goalposts” after asking carers to leave their lives behind to care for Britain’s most vulnerable.
Following the backlash, Mahmood confirmed the government is listening and will seek a fairer balance — especially for those who have shown consistent commitment to the UK.
What It Means For You
The Good News
For now, the 10, 15 and 20-year settlement periods have NOT become law. The fact that the Home Secretary is publicly acknowledging fairness concerns means there is room for the government to modify, reduce, or scrap the retrospective part of the plan.
This is a positive sign for Nigerians in the UK who have been working, paying tax, and contributing to the NHS and UK economy legally.
FAQs
Do I still apply after 5 years?
Yes, the current rule is still 5 years until new rules are officially published on GOV.UK. Do not delay if you are eligible.
I am a care worker, will I wait 15 years?
Not yet. The 15-year proposal is under review. This is the most criticised part of the plan and likely to be changed.
What should I do now?
Keep your employment records, payslips, proof of continuous residence, and National Insurance. Speak to a registered OISC immigration adviser.
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Tags: Good News For Nigerians In UK, UK ILR Update, Indefinite Leave to Remain 10 Years, Shabana Mahmood, Nigerians in UK 2026, UK Care Workers
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