The United Kingdom is moving forward with significant changes to its immigration policy, with British politicians proposing to end the current five-year automatic settlement route for migrants. Under the new rules, individuals—including European Union nationals—would be required to reside in the UK for more than ten years before becoming eligible to apply for permanent settlement.

Part of Broader Strategy to Curb Immigration

This proposal forms part of a broader set of measures being implemented by the UK government to reduce overall immigration levels. The policy shift is expected to have far-reaching consequences, not only for migrants seeking long-term residence in the UK but also for the country’s economy and workforce planning.

As reported by News, the UK’s new direction in immigration policy is already prompting concern among businesses that rely heavily on foreign labour. The proposed settlement changes could disrupt recruitment efforts across key sectors—particularly health and social care, hospitality, and construction—where staff shortages persist.

Implications for EU Migrants and the Labour Market

If implemented, the new settlement rules could significantly impact the future prospects of thousands of EU nationals who view the UK as a potential long-term home. This is especially critical given that many EU citizens previously enjoyed more accessible pathways to permanent residency before Brexit.

According to The Financial Times, under the revised policy, EU and other international migrants will face extended residency requirements before gaining eligibility for settlement status, signaling a more restrictive and selective immigration system.

In parallel, changes are also being introduced to the UK’s skilled worker visa programme. While employers have been temporarily granted access to visas for certain lower-skilled roles in sectors experiencing acute labour shortages, these concessions may be short-lived.

Warning Signs from Within Government

Yvette Cooper, the UK’s Home Secretary, has noted that the stricter immigration measures—especially those targeting care worker visas—are expected to lead to a sharp drop in arrivals. She indicated that the UK could see a reduction of approximately 50,000 migrant workers per year once the changes are enforced.

This shift comes amid growing concerns about the sustainability of public services and private sector operations that have come to rely on foreign workers.

UK’s Commitment to Reducing Net Migration

The policy revisions are part of the UK government’s broader commitment to bringing down net migration figures, which reached record levels in recent years. According to data from the Office for Budget Responsibility, net migration stood at approximately 728,000 as of mid-2024—a figure the government aims to halve in the medium term through tighter visa regulations and settlement requirements.

Negotiating Mobility with the EU

Despite the tightening of immigration rules, discussions between the UK and the European Union remain ongoing regarding a Youth Mobility Scheme. This potential agreement would allow young people from the UK and EU countries to live and work in each other’s territories without the need for a visa. If realized, the scheme could represent a step forward in restoring bilateral ties that have been tested since Brexit.

Snapshot of Migration in the UK and EU

Recent figures published by the House of Commons Library highlight the significant presence of EU nationals in the UK. As of 2023:

1. Approximately 3.4 million EU citizens were living in the UK.
2. EU nationals make up around 18% of the population in England and Wales.
3. There are 11.4 million non-UK-born residents currently living in England and Wales.

Conversely, nearly 994,000 UK nationals reside in EU countries, demonstrating the interconnectedness between the two regions in terms of migration and residency.