Archive · 20 Nov 2025
UK to Speed Up Residency for High Earners, Entrepreneurs
The UK wants to make it easier for high earners and entrepreneurs to stay in the country permanently.
They can apply after 3 years.
Other people might have to wait longer, and those who broke the rules might have to wait a very long time.
The government is asking for people's opinions about these changes before they happen.
High earners (£125,000+) and entrepreneurs can apply for permanent residency after 3 years
Current 5-year rule remains for those earning £50,000 to £125,000
Residency period doubled to 10 years for those earning less than £50,000
Illegal migrants and visa overstayers face up to 30-year wait for settlement
Consultation on transitional arrangements to follow
- Who
- The UK government, led by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood
- What
- Proposed changes to the residency requirements for migrants
- When
- Thursday, November 20 (announcement), subject to consultation
- Where
- The UK
- Why
- To attract top global talent and boost the economy through skilled migration
Immigration Advocates
Government
Residency Period for Low Earners
Immigration Advocates
Concerned about the doubling of residency period
Government
Aims to prioritize high earners and entrepreneurs
- New Residency Period for High Earners
- 3 years
- New Residency Period for £50,000 - £125,000 Earners
- 5 years
- New Residency Period for Low Earners
- 10 years
- New Residency Period for Illegal Migrants/Overstayers
- Up to 30 years
- Consultation Period
- To be announced
Sources
5 ways Britain plans to overhaul its asylum system
UK to offer 3-year residency path for high earners, entrepreneurs
UK to fast-track permanent residency for high-earners and entrepreneurs: Apply after just three years
