UK Home Secretary Unveils Stricter Immigration Rules for Indefinite Leave to Remain

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced a series of tougher new conditions for migrants seeking Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the United Kingdom. The proposals, unveiled on Monday, September 29, 2025, on the eve of Labour's annual conference in Liverpool, aim to ensure that those settling permanently in the UK demonstrate a clear contribution to society.

Enhanced English Language Proficiency

Under the new rules, applicants for ILR will be required to demonstrate a 'high standard' of English language proficiency. While current requirements for ILR typically mandate a minimum of B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) for speaking and listening, the Home Secretary's announcement suggests a more stringent benchmark. The precise definition of this 'high standard' will be detailed in a forthcoming consultation.

'Spotless' Criminal Record and Community Contribution

A 'spotless criminal record' will become a mandatory requirement for those seeking permanent settlement. Existing immigration policies already scrutinize criminal convictions, with applications typically refused for those sentenced to 12 months or more imprisonment, or for committing an offence within the 24 months prior to application. All criminal records, including spent convictions, must be disclosed.

Furthermore, migrants will need to prove their active contribution to British society. This includes demonstrating engagement through:

• Work and making National Insurance payments
• Community volunteering or other forms of social integration
• Not relying on benefits

Mahmood emphasized that settlement should be linked not just to employment and tax contributions, but also to 'the wider contribution you are making to our communities'.

Extended Waiting Period and Future Consultations

The Home Secretary also indicated plans to extend the standard qualifying period for ILR. Currently, most migrants can apply after five years; however, this period may be doubled to ten years under the proposed changes. A consultation process will be launched later this year to develop the specific details of these new conditions. The reforms are part of a broader government strategy to manage migration numbers and ensure public confidence in the immigration system.