Immigration White Paper: Earned Settlement and Citizenship

In June 2025, the UK government released a new Immigration White Paper outlining major proposed reforms to how migrants settle in the UK and ultimately acquire citizenship. The paper introduces the concepts of “earned settlement” and “earned citizenship” as part of a broader effort to reinforce public confidence in the immigration system, tighten integration standards, and differentiate between short-term immigration and long-term residence.

In this blog, we explore the core principles behind the white paper, explain what “earning” settlement and citizenship could mean for migrants, and look at how these proposals could shape the future of UK immigration policy.

What are the core proposals of the “Earned Settlement and Citizenship” white paper?

The white paper proposes a fundamental shift from automatic eligibility for settlement and citizenship after a fixed period of residence to a more conditional, merit-based approach. The main proposals include:

• Replacing the automatic transition from work visas to settlement with a points-based assessment of contribution, behaviour, and integration.
• Creating a formalised “probationary” period before an individual can apply for settlement or citizenship.
• Assessing applicants based on employment record, tax history, English language proficiency, and community participation.
• Tightening rules around criminality and good character, ensuring applicants meet higher conduct thresholds.
• Streamlining the path from settlement to citizenship, but only for those who demonstrate consistent compliance and contribution.

The paper represents a political and cultural pivot, where legal residence alone may no longer be enough to guarantee permanent status.

Earned settlement

The concept of earned settlement would redefine how migrants achieve Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Instead of meeting a fixed timeline, usually five years on a Skilled Worker or family route, applicants would need to meet a broader set of criteria related to economic activity, lawfulness, and integration.

Under the proposals, migrants would likely need to demonstrate a continuous work history, consistent tax contributions, minimal reliance on public funds, and clear compliance with immigration rules. Poor conduct, including minor criminal offences or civil penalties, could affect the decision. Periods of unemployment or time outside the UK might also be scrutinised.

This marks a notable departure from the current rules under the UK immigration system, where time served lawfully is often the key consideration. For migrants in work routes or family categories, the earned settlement model may introduce uncertainty and complexity into long-term planning.

Earned citizenship

The white paper also proposes reforming the path to British citizenship. Currently, many migrants apply for citizenship after holding ILR for 12 months. This process is primarily administrative and involves meeting basic character and residence requirements.

Under the new model, earned citizenship would involve further checks on behaviour, language skills, tax status, and civic engagement.

Proposals include:

• Evidence of volunteering, community participation, or engagement with British institutions.
• Mandatory reassessment of English language and Life in the UK knowledge at the citizenship stage.
• Tighter scrutiny of gaps in residence and travel history.
• Potential introduction of a formal ceremony or probationary period before final naturalisation.

This reimagines citizenship not as a final administrative step, but as a public recognition of integration and merit.

Summary of policy changes

In essence, the Immigration White Paper seeks to introduce a tiered model of status acquisition, from visa to probationary status, settlement, and finally citizenship, with each stage requiring demonstrated compliance, contribution, and integration.

If enacted, these policies would:

• Make settlement and citizenship conditional, rather than time-based.
• Introduce greater discretion into Home Office decisions.
• Place an increased burden on applicants to demonstrate contribution and conduct.
• Potentially extend the total time it takes to achieve permanent status or nationality.

The proposals aim to balance the UK’s need for skilled migration with stronger cultural and economic integration benchmarks.

When was the white paper published?

The Immigration White Paper: Earned Settlement and Citizenship was published in June 2025. It forms part of a broader governmental effort to restore control over the immigration system and increase transparency around long-term migration pathways.

Have these proposals become law yet?

No. As of July 2025, the proposals remain part of a policy consultation process. Legislation would be required to implement the earned settlement and citizenship models. A timeline for any legal changes has not yet been announced, but the government has indicated its intent to move forward with reforms in the coming months.

Individuals with pending applications for settlement or citizenship are advised to seek legal advice if implementation timelines begin to overlap with their case.

How does earned settlement differ from the traditional 5-year route to indefinite leave to remain?

Traditionally, migrants in certain categories, such as Skilled Workers or family members, are eligible for ILR after five continuous years of lawful residence, provided they meet English language and financial requirements.

Under the proposed earned settlement model, time alone would no longer be enough. Applicants would be required to satisfy additional criteria demonstrating their active contribution to UK society and adherence to immigration rules. Discretion would play a greater role in the assessment, which may disadvantage applicants with irregular work history or past immigration issues.

Which immigrant visa categories or routes will be most affected by the proposed changes in the white paper?

The most affected groups would include:

• Skilled Workers – who previously anticipated settlement after five years of employment.
• Family route applicants – who may face greater scrutiny of their financial and integration status.
• Students switching to work routes – who will need to demonstrate progression and stability over time.
• Long residence applicants – who could face delays or additional requirements under a merit-based system.

The proposals signal a more selective system that favours continuous employment, high integration, and a clean legal history.

What are the main challenges or criticisms regarding the implementation of earned settlement and citizenship?

Critics have raised several concerns:

• Subjectivity and discretion: Increased Home Office discretion could lead to inconsistent decisions and reduced transparency.
• Administrative burden: Proving community engagement or integration may be difficult to measure fairly.
• Inequality: The reforms may disadvantage vulnerable groups or those with disrupted employment due to health, caregiving, or structural inequality.
• Legal uncertainty: Without clear statutory guidance, the shift may introduce greater legal complexity and a higher risk of refusal.

While the goals of integration and contribution are widely supported, there is debate over whether the proposed model achieves them without unfairly penalising law-abiding migrants.

Speak to our immigration solicitors about earned settlement and citizenship

If you are concerned about how these proposals could affect your immigration journey, our expert team at BHD Solicitors can help. Whether you are planning for settlement, applying for ILR, or preparing for British citizenship, we offer clear, strategic advice based on the latest policy developments.

Call us on 020 8681 5128 or email enquiries@bhdsolicitors.co.uk to speak to one of our specialist immigration lawyers today.