With the future of UK immigration more uncertain than ever, now may be the time to apply for British citizenship and protect your rights.
With the future direction of UK immigration policy becoming increasingly uncertain, now may be the time to consider applying for British citizenship to secure your long-term rights.
At present, individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (“ILR”) or settled status are generally eligible to apply for British citizenship once they have held that status for at least 12 months, subject to meeting all the relevant requirements.
However, potential changes to the immigration system could significantly alter this position. Last year, Reform UK has indicated that it would extend the overall pathway to citizenship to around seven years. At first glance, this may appear more favourable than proposals from the current Labour Government, which is considering increasing the standard qualifying period for ILR to ten years.
If implemented, this could mean that, in many cases, individuals would need to wait at least 11 years before becoming eligible for British citizenship, unless they fall within an exception (for example, based on higher earnings). You can read more about the proposed ILR changes here.
In addition, Reform UK has suggested that it may introduce further requirements for citizenship, although the detail of these proposals has not yet been confirmed.
Of particular concern is Reform UK’s stated intention to abolish ILR altogether, including for those who currently hold it, and to replace it with a new visa category. This new status may require individuals to meet a minimum annual salary threshold of £60,000.
If such changes were introduced, this could have significant consequences. Individuals who currently rely on ILR as evidence of their permanent right to reside in the UK could find that status removed, and may be required to meet substantially higher thresholds to remain in the country. It is also possible that similar requirements could be extended to British citizenship applications.
In practical terms, this could mean that someone who is currently eligible (or close to becoming eligible) for British citizenship might, under a future system, find themselves unable to apply, or even without the right to remain in the UK.
For this reason, applying for British citizenship may be the only way to fully secure your position.
Although the next General Election is not expected until 2029, Reform UK has been leading recent opinion polls, and it is sensible to consider your position now.
In particular, you may wish to ask:
- Am I eligible for ILR?
- Will I remain eligible for ILR once any proposed changes take effect (potentially from Autumn 2026)?
- If I already hold ILR, am I eligible to apply for British citizenship now?
- If not, when will I become eligible?
While future changes are not guaranteed, early planning is essential. We would strongly encourage individuals to review their circumstances and take advice where appropriate.
If you would like assistance in assessing your options or preparing an application, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected].
