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Skilled Worker Visa Holders Should Prepare for Potential ILR Changes Ahead
- shree527
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
If you hold a Skilled Worker Visa and have heard rumors about needing to wait 10 years to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), this post is for you. Many international students and professionals reach out daily with the same question: “Will we now have to wait 10 years for ILR?” The answer is not straightforward yet, but understanding the current situation can help you prepare and avoid confusion.
What Is the Current Situation Regarding ILR for Skilled Workers?
On 12 May 2025, former Home Secretary Yvette Cooper addressed Parliament about upcoming changes to settlement and citizenship rules. She said, “We will set out further details of the earned settlement and citizenship reforms later this year.” This means the government has announced a plan that could require a 10-year wait for ILR, but the exact details, implementation date, and impact are not yet confirmed.
At this stage, the government plans to conduct a public consultation before finalizing any new rules. This consultation will allow stakeholders, including visa holders like you, to provide feedback and raise concerns.
Why Are These Changes Being Considered?
The UK government is reviewing its immigration system to make it more "earned" and aligned with long-term residency and citizenship goals. The proposed 10-year ILR plan aims to:
Encourage longer-term commitment to the UK
Ensure applicants meet specific criteria before settlement
Streamline the citizenship process after ILR
However, these goals are still under discussion, and the final rules could differ from the initial proposal.
What Does This Mean for Skilled Worker Visa Holders Now?
For now, the existing ILR rules remain in place. Skilled Worker Visa holders can still apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous residence, provided they meet all other requirements such as salary thresholds, English language proficiency, and knowledge of life in the UK.
Here are some practical points to keep in mind:
Do not panic or rush your application based on rumors or unconfirmed reports.
Stay informed by following official government announcements and trusted immigration advisors.
Prepare your documents and meet all current eligibility criteria to avoid delays.
If you have questions, seek advice from regulated immigration professionals rather than unregulated sources spreading speculation.
How to Stay Updated and Get Reliable Advice
Many visa holders get confused by unregulated advisors who share opinions as facts. This only increases anxiety and misinformation. To avoid this:
Follow official UK government websites and announcements.
Join reputable immigration forums or groups where experts share verified information.
If you want personalized advice, book consultation with us.
What Could Change After the Public Consultation?
Once the public consultation is complete, the government will review feedback and publish the final rules. Possible outcomes include:
Confirming the 10-year ILR wait with specific conditions
Introducing a phased approach or exceptions for certain visa categories
Maintaining the current 5-year ILR route with minor adjustments
Until then, it is important to stay calm and plan based on current rules.
Preparing for the Future
While waiting for official updates, Skilled Worker Visa holders can take steps to strengthen their ILR applications:
Keep detailed records of your employment, salary, and visa history.
Maintain continuous residence in the UK without long absences.
Improve your English language skills and prepare for the Life in the UK test.
Consult with immigration experts to understand how potential changes might affect your situation.
Summary
The announcement of a potential 10-year wait for ILR has caused concern among Skilled Worker Visa holders. However, the rule is not yet confirmed, and the government will hold a public consultation before finalizing any changes. Until then, the current 5-year ILR route remains valid.
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