These answers are based on the Government’s November 2026 response. Follow the links for more detail, or use the checker for your own estimate.
Qualifying periods
The default becomes 10 years. You can qualify after 5 years or 3 years through higher earnings, public service or a British connection. Public funds or adult immigration breaches mean 20 years.
Requirements
Everyone needs no criminal record, no Government debt, B2 English, the Life in the UK test and a minimum contribution of £12,571 a year. Read Earned Settlement explained.
See which pathway applies to you, and your earliest estimated date.
Check my pathwayFamilies
See partners and dependants and children.
Questions and answers
How long do I have to wait for ILR under the new rules?
It depends on your pathway: 3, 5, 10 or 20 years. The default is 10 years. Use the checker to estimate yours.
Do Student and Graduate visas count?
No. Time on temporary routes does not count, and the Long Residence route is closing.
What English level do I need?
B2, roughly A level standard, unless you are exempt because you are under 18, aged 65 or over, or have a relevant physical or mental condition.
Can a year of low earnings stop me settling?
Not necessarily. The best years test allows lower years. For the 10-year pathway you need £12,571 or more in 5 of the last 7 years.
Can couples combine income?
Yes. A household earning £25,142 or more between two partners meets the minimum contribution.
Does claiming benefits affect settlement?
Yes. Claiming specified public funds in the 5 years before applying moves you to the 20-year pathway.
What happens if I have a criminal record?
Any adult with a criminal record in the UK will be refused settlement. Overseas convictions can also lead to refusal.
Do I have to pay off NHS debt before applying?
Yes. All outstanding Government debt, including NHS charges, tax and National Insurance, must be cleared.
Can my children settle with me?
Children under 18 settle with their parents and are exempt from earnings, English and Life in the UK requirements. Young people who are 25 or over when their family becomes eligible need to qualify in their own right or move onto their own visa route.
Are NHS nurses on the 5-year pathway?
Registered nurses and midwives in qualifying public sector roles paid on national pay scales can be on the 5-year pathway after 5 years in the role.
Are care workers affected?
Care workers who joined before 12 May 2025 keep 5 years if they meet the £25,000 salary and sponsorship rules. Those who joined later follow the 10-year default.
Is the EU Settlement Scheme changing?
No. The EU Settlement Scheme is separate and is not affected by Earned Settlement.
When do the new rules start?
No date has been announced. Detailed guidance will be published first.
Is ILR Checker official?
No. ILR Checker is an independent site and is not connected to the Home Office. It gives general information, not legal advice.
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.