The UK government is weighing stricter rules for migrants who want to settle permanently, with applicants potentially needing to show they make a real

contribution to British society.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will outline the proposal on Sept 29 in her first speech to the Labour Party conference. She is expected to say that the system for “indefinite leave to remain” — which currently allows most migrants to apply after five years of residence — may soon come with tougher conditions.

Under the changes being considered, applicants would need to demonstrate a clean criminal record, steady payment of social security contributions, and no reliance on welfare benefits. Other possible requirements include strong English language skills and evidence of volunteering in local communities. A formal consultation on these ideas is set to begin in late 2025.

The move reflects Labour’s effort to counter growing pressure from Reform UK, the populist party led by Nigel Farage, which has surged in the polls by campaigning on immigration. Reform has gone further, saying it would scrap permanent residency altogether and replace it with renewable five-year work visas.

Immigration has long been one of the most divisive issues in British politics. Concerns over border control were central to the 2016 Brexit referendum, yet net migration has continued to climb since the UK left the European Union.

On Sept 28, Prime Minister Keir Starmer accused Reform of pushing “racist” mass-deportation policies that would “tear this country apart.” Mahmood’s announcement signals Labour’s attempt to show it is taking a firm but measured approach. Photo by Shabana Mahmood, Wikimedia commons.