🇬🇧 UK Immigration Reform 2025: Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Rules & Skilled Worker Visa Updates

Mati Lio
Sep 8
3 min read

UK immigration 2025 update with key date, deadline, and ILR rule

The UK government has enacted significant changes to immigration policies as of July 2025, notably extending the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and introducing transitional arrangements for Skilled Worker visa holders. These reforms aim to streamline the immigration process and ensure that individuals meet specific residency and employment criteria before settling permanently in the UK.

🛂 ILR Qualifying Period Extended to 10 Years

Effective from July 2025, the qualifying period for ILR has been extended from 5 to 10 years for most migrants. This change aligns with the government's objective to ensure that individuals have a sustained and meaningful presence in the UK before granting permanent settlement status.

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👩‍💼 Skilled Worker Visa Holders: Transitional Arrangements

To mitigate the impact on existing Skilled Worker visa holders, transitional provisions have been implemented:

Eligibility Criteria: Individuals whose Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) was assigned before 22 July 2025 and who have maintained continuous permission as a Skilled Worker are eligible to apply for ILR after five years of continuous residence.

Continuity of Permission: Applicants must have had no breaks in their Skilled Worker visa status. Changing employers is permissible under these transitional arrangements, provided there was no interruption in visa coverage.

Application Deadline: These transitional provisions remain in effect until 22 July 2030. Eligible individuals must apply for ILR under the five-year route within this timeframe.

⚠️ Important Considerations

New Applicants: If your CoS was assigned on or after 22 July 2025, or if there has been a break in your Skilled Worker visa status, the new ten-year residency requirement applies to your ILR application.

Continuous Residence: Applicants must ensure they meet the continuous residence requirements, which include restrictions on absences from the UK.

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Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is based on the UK government's official publications. Immigration policies are subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary. It is advisable to consult official resources or seek professional advice for the most current and personalized information.