World Immigration News

(BBC)Mahmood defends immigration reforms amid Labour opposition

Release Date: 2026-02-05
Media: BBC
Summary: The UK government is proposing to extend the standard waiting period for permanent residence from five years to ten years, a move the home secretary has defended as fair despite opposition from within the ruling Labour Party. The government argues that recent levels of net migration require a policy response and describes settlement as a privilege rather than a right. Under the proposal, highly skilled or high-earning migrants could qualify in as little as three years, while those relying on state support could face longer waits. Some care workers could be required to wait up to fifteen years.

Around forty Labour MPs have raised concerns, especially about the possibility of retrospective effects on migrants already living in the UK. They argue the change could worsen labour shortages, particularly in the care sector. The government is currently consulting on the proposals, including possible transitional arrangements.
Tags: United Kingdom

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