Current rules vs new rules
Under the current system, Skilled Workers can usually apply for settlement after 5 years. Under Earned Settlement, the starting point is 10 years, with faster pathways for higher earners and public service workers.
| Your situation | Likely pathway |
|---|---|
| Earning £125,141+ in 3 of the last 4 years | 3 years |
| Earning £50,271+ in 3 of the last 5 years | 5 years |
| Qualifying public sector health or education job | 5 years |
| National pay scale support role, came before 12 May 2025 | 5 years (transitional) |
| Earning £12,571+ in 5 of the last 7 years | 10 years |
| Claimed public funds or adult immigration breach | 20 years |
Jobs below degree level
The consultation proposed 15 years for workers in jobs below degree level (RQF 3 to 5). The Government dropped this, so these workers follow the 10-year default unless another pathway applies.
See which pathway applies to you, and your earliest estimated date.
Check my pathwayHealth and Care Worker visa
The Health and Care Worker visa is part of the Skilled Worker route. Many NHS roles qualify for 5 years through public service. See Health and Care visa and care workers.
If you were on the route before April 2024
The salary threshold for Skilled Workers rose sharply in April 2024, with transitional arrangements letting people already on the route extend their stay under the old salary levels until 2030. Because roles below degree level now follow the 10-year pathway, the Government will let this group extend their visas on their current terms until 2035.
Their settlement period follows the standard Earned Settlement pathways, so 10 years for roles below degree level, unless a faster pathway applies.
Partners and children
Your partner can settle at the same time if they arrived with you and meet the requirements. See dependants.
Requirements
All Skilled Workers need no criminal record, no Government debt, B2 English and the Life in the UK test. Read Earned Settlement explained.
Questions and answers
I switched from Graduate to Skilled Worker. When does my clock start?
Your qualifying period starts when you began on the Skilled Worker route. Time on the Graduate visa does not count.
My salary is just under £50,271. What can I do?
If your salary rises above £50,271 for 3 of 5 years, you could move to the 5-year pathway. Your pathway is assessed when you apply.
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.