In May 2025, the Government published a White Paper on immigration, outlining a series of proposed reforms to the UK’s migration system. The paper identifies four main areas of focus:
Together, these proposals signal potential long-term changes to the way the UK approaches migration. As the APPG on Migration, we are keen to examine these changes in detail and explore their potential implications.
We have therefore launched a broad programme of work around the White Paper, including parliamentary briefings, events and cross-party dialogue to create space for constructive discussion and debate.
By drawing on both evidence and lived experience, we aim to support politicians in engaging more deeply with the White Paper proposals to ensure that political debate is well-informed and that policy outcomes are stronger. Read on to see the work we have undertaken so far, and what we have planned next.
Earned Settlement Model
On 20 November 2025, the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, announced plans to replace automatic settlement with an Earned Settlement Model, which doubles the qualifying period to 10 years and requires applicants to meet criteria such as higher English proficiency, a clean criminal record, and sustained economic contribution.
The Home Office has launched a public consultation on this new proposed Earned Settlement model, which will introduce the most significant revisions to the settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain/ILR) framework in decades. The consultation will run until 12th February 2026.
The APPG on Migration has published an analysis of the proposed Earned Settlement model, outlining the key elements of the proposal as well as the associated implications and challenges. You can read the full analysis here.