UK earned settlement: high earners wait 3 years, others 10
Under new UK immigration rules changes, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told Parliament settlement will hinge on earnings and contributions, with some waits stretching to 30 years.
The standard wait for permanent settlement rises from five to 10 years under a new Earned Settlement model.
Highest earners may settle after three years; those above £50,271 and many doctors, nurses and teachers after five.
Illegal entrants, including via small boats, could wait up to 30 years; rule-breakers at least 20.
Applicants must meet four conditions: clean record, A-level-level English, no tax debts, and National Insurance contributions.
The UK government says more than 500,000 migrants may face longer waits; officials say people will not be forced out automatically.