Government’s White Paper Proposes Major Changes to UK Naturalisation and Settlement Rules
The UK Government has introduced a series of proposed reforms to the immigration and naturalisation process in its latest policy white paper.
Key Changes at a Glance
- Increased qualifying period for settlement and British citizenship
The Government is proposing to extend the qualifying period for settlement from five to ten years for certain points-based immigration routes. This change would, in turn, lengthen the overall pathway to British citizenship. However, they also plan to introduce a mechanism called ‘earned settlement’ allowing individuals to shorten this period if they can demonstrate significant contributions to the UK’s economy and society. The idea is to create a system where migrants can earn the right to more secure immigration status through the long-term value they bring to the country. The white paper also mentioned applying this to citizenship. At this stage, though, the specific criteria for what constitutes a qualifying contribution have yet to be defined.
2. Stricter Language Requirements
The Government also intends to raise the English language requirement for ILR applications. At present, most immigration routes require a B1 level of English. The new proposals will increase this to B2 across the majority of routes.
3. Changes to the Life in the UK Test
A review of Life in the UK test has also been proposed. While full details have not yet been published, the intention is to ‘refresh’ the Life in the UK test.
Impact on British Citizenship Applications
If these changes to UK Naturalisation and Settlement rules are implemented, they will inevitably extend to naturalisation applications. Given the higher thresholds for settlement, future applicants for British citizenship will likely face a more difficult application process.
For those currently eligible or nearing eligibility, it may be worth considering applying under the current rules before changes are enacted.
Current Requirements for Naturalisation
Until new rules come into force, the criteria for applying for British citizenship remain unchanged. These include:
Residence Requirement
When applying for British citizenship, you must meet strict residency requirements, including limits on the number of days you’ve been absent from the UK during the relevant ‘qualifying period’.
1. If You Are Not Married to a British Citizen
- Qualifying period: 5 years
- Maximum absences allowed:
- No more than 450 days outside the UK during the 5-year period
- No more than 90 days outside the UK in the last 12 months before applying
- You must have been physically present in the UK at the start of the qualifying period. For example, if applying on 28 May 2025, you must have been in the UK on 29 May 2020.
2. If You Are Married to a British Citizen
- Qualifying period: 3 years
- Maximum absences allowed:
- No more than 270 days outside the UK during the 3-year period
- No more than 90 days outside the UK in the last 12 months before applying
- You must have been physically present in the UK at the start of the qualifying period. For example, if applying on 28 May 2025, you must have been in the UK on 29 May 2022.
The Home Office may exercise discretion if you exceed these absence limits, taking into account the reasons for your time abroad and the strength of your connections to the UK.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- You must hold ILR (or Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme).
- If you are not married to a British citizen, you must have held ILR for at least 12 months before applying.
- If married to a British citizen, you may apply for citizenship immediately after receiving ILR.
English Language and Life in the UK Test
- You must pass the Life in the UK test.
- You must demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR Level B1 or hold a bachelor’s degree or higher that was taught in English
Good Character Requirement
- You must be of good character, which includes assessments of criminal history, financial conduct, and immigration compliance.
Intention to Reside
- You must intend to continue living in the UK after naturalisation.
Next Steps after reviewing the changes to UK Naturalisation and Settlement Rules
The proposed changes are not yet in effect, but they signal the direction of future policy. If you are eligible for ILR or British citizenship under the current rules, you may wish to act now to avoid being caught by more stringent requirements in the future.
We are closely monitoring developments and will provide further updates as more details become available. For tailored advice or assistance with your naturalisation or settlement application, please get in touch with our immigration team.
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Reach out to our Client Care Manager, Rikki, who will be more than happy to assist you and guide you in the right direction.
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