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Pathways

The 10-year ILR pathway: the new default

For most people who follow the rules and work, the qualifying period for settlement becomes 10 years. Here is what the default pathway means and how you might move onto a faster one.

Last reviewed 4 November 2026Based on the Government response CP 1707

Who is on the 10-year pathway?

Ten years is the default. You are on it if you are on a qualifying route, meet the mandatory requirements, and do not qualify for a faster pathway. That includes many Skilled Workers earning below £50,271, care workers who joined on or after 12 May 2025, partners of settled (non-British) people, and people on Family and Private Life permission.

The consultation originally proposed 15 years for workers in jobs below degree level. The Government dropped that idea, so these workers also follow the 10-year default.

The minimum contribution

To be on the 10-year pathway you need to show sustained contribution. That means earning at least £12,571 a year, the point at which basic rate income tax starts, in 5 of the last 7 years. The thresholds move in line with tax and National Insurance thresholds.

Couples can combine their income. If your household earns at least £25,142 between you, you can meet the threshold together. Children under 18, young adults aged 18 to 24 settling with family, people aged 65 and over and some people with a physical or mental condition are exempt. See the earnings requirement and exemptions.

See which pathway applies to you, and your earliest estimated date.

Check my pathway

How to move to a faster pathway

  • Increase your earnings to £50,271 or more for 3 of 5 years to reach 5 years, or £125,141 for 3 of 4 years to reach 3 years. This applies on the high-talent routes, including Skilled Worker and Health and Care.
  • Work in a qualifying public service role in health or education for 5 years.
  • A British connection, such as marrying a British citizen, can bring a 5-year pathway on the partner route.

What would make it longer?

Claiming public funds in the 5 years before you apply, or breaking immigration rules as an adult, moves you to 20 years. Entering illegally as an adult ordinarily adds another 10. See the 20-year pathway.

ExampleAna is a Skilled Worker earning £32,000 who started her visa in 2024. Her partner earns £20,000. She meets the minimum contribution on her own, so she is on the 10-year pathway with an earliest date in 2034, unless her circumstances change.

Questions and answers

Does time on my old visa count?

Time on qualifying routes counts. Time on temporary routes such as Student or Graduate does not. The 10 years run from when you started on a qualifying route.

Can I switch to a faster pathway part way through?

Yes. Your pathway is assessed when you apply, so if your earnings or job change, you could qualify for a shorter pathway at that point.

This is not legal advice. This guide explains the Government’s published proposals for Earned Settlement, which are not yet in force and may change. For advice on your own situation, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or solicitor, or check GOV.UK. Read our full disclaimer.