Key Update – September 2025
On 11 September 2025, Alex Norris, the new Minister for Border Security and Asylum, confirmed in Parliament that the Government intends to set a 10-year qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, he stressed that a public consultation later this year will play a decisive role in shaping the final details of the policy.
This marks the most significant development since the Government’s Immigration White Paper (May 2025) first proposed extending the ILR pathway.
Background: Why the Debate Matters
- In May 2025, the UK Government proposed extending the ILR residency requirement from 5 years to 10 years.
- The White Paper framed settlement as a “privilege, not a right”, intended to ensure that migrants make a long-term contribution before gaining permanent status.
- This announcement sparked widespread concern among Skilled Workers and Hongkongers on BN(O) visas, many of whom felt betrayed by possible retrospective changes.
The Westminster Debate on ILR Reform
A Westminster Hall debate was triggered after two e-petitions gained over 100,000 signatures each:
- Keep the 5-Year ILR pathway for Skilled Worker visa holders
- Keep 5-Year ILR terms for Hong Kong BN(O) visa holders
What MPs Said:
- Ben Goldsborough (Labour): warned that retrospective changes undermine trust and fairness.
- He emphasised that both Skilled Workers and Hongkongers came to the UK under a clear set of rules, which should not be altered midway.
Alex Norris: “We Will Listen First”
Responding on behalf of the Government, Alex Norris confirmed:
- A consultation later this year will gather views from migrants, employers, and the public.
- Final details of the ILR reform will only be decided after the consultation process.
- While a 10-year baseline for settlement remains the plan, those making “meaningful contributions” may qualify faster.
His Key Points:
- Settlement is a privilege, not a right.
- Skilled Worker visas fill essential roles but the UK must reduce reliance on overseas workers by investing in domestic training.
- The BN(O) route remains open and is seen as a “morally significant” commitment to Hong Kong families.
Skilled Workers: Balancing Labour Gaps & UK Training
Norris acknowledged that Skilled Worker visa holders are critical to public services and the economy, particularly in health and social care.
But he also warned that:
- Some sectors are becoming too dependent on overseas workers.
- Employers must train UK workers alongside international recruitment.
- A new Labour Market Evidence Group will meet quarterly to monitor shortages.
BN(O) Hongkongers: A Special Case
The Minister reaffirmed the UK’s historic commitment to Hongkongers:
- Since 2021, over 225,000 BN(O) visas granted and 160,000+ arrivals in the UK.
- Hongkongers are seen as making a hugely positive and lasting contribution to local communities.
- While rules may change, the Government is listening closely to BN(O) families.
What Happens Next?
- Consultation in late 2025 → migrants, businesses, and organisations can give feedback.
- Final ILR rules in 2026 → once consultation responses are reviewed.
- Until then, current 5-year ILR rules remain in place.
