What is the biggest difference between the current and proposed ILR systems?

The biggest change is moving from a time-based system (qualify after 5 years) to a contribution-based system (qualify by accumulating enough points). Under the current rules, meeting the time requirement and basic criteria is enough. Under the proposed system, you would need to demonstrate specific contributions across multiple categories.

Is the new system harder than the current one?

For most applicants, the proposed system is likely to be more demanding. The standard qualifying period increases from 5 to 10 years, and applicants must meet a points threshold rather than just a time requirement. However, high earners with strong English and community involvement could still qualify in 5 years through the accelerated route.

Will the Life in the UK test still be required?

Yes. The Life in the UK test is expected to remain a requirement under the new system, and may even be given additional weight as part of the integration assessment. The test content may also be updated to reflect modern Britain.

Do I still need to meet the English language requirement?

Yes, and the English requirement may actually become more important. Under the current system, B1 English is a pass-or-fail requirement. Under the proposed system, higher English levels (B2 or above) could earn additional points, creating an incentive to improve beyond the minimum.

ILR Points System vs Current System: What Changes?

The current ILR system is primarily time-based: spend 5 years on a qualifying visa, meet English and residence requirements, and apply. The proposed system replaces this with a points-based assessment of contribution across economic, linguistic, and community categories. The standard qualifying period would increase to 10 years, with an accelerated 5-year route for high-scoring applicants. This guide compares the two systems side by side.

The Current ILR System

Under the current rules, published on the GOV.UK indefinite leave to remain page, most visa holders can apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous residence. The requirements are relatively straightforward:

5 years on a qualifying visa (such as Skilled Worker or Spouse visa)
No more than 180 days absent from the UK in any 12-month period
English language at B1 level
Pass the Life in the UK test
Meet the good character requirement
Still meet the requirements of your visa route (for example, salary threshold for Skilled Workers)

The system is essentially binary. You either meet the requirements or you do not. There is no scoring, no ranking, and no assessment of how much you have contributed beyond the basic criteria. A person earning 40,000 GBP is treated the same as someone earning 100,000 GBP, provided both meet the minimum threshold.

The Proposed Points System

The proposed ILR points system changes this fundamentally. Instead of a simple checklist, applicants would accumulate points across several categories:

Economic contribution: Tax payments, National Insurance, continuous employment, and salary level
English language: Scored rather than pass-or-fail, with higher levels earning more points
Community integration: Volunteering, civic participation, and community involvement
Public service: Additional points for NHS, teaching, and social care workers
Qualifications: UK qualifications may earn additional points

The total points determine whether you qualify for accelerated settlement (5 years) or standard settlement (10 years). There is also expected to be a minimum threshold below which ILR is not granted regardless of time spent in the UK.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Qualifying Period

Current: 5 years for most routes. Proposed: 10 years standard, 5 years accelerated (high points only).

English Language

Current: B1 (pass or fail). Proposed: Scored. B1 earns minimum points. B2 and above earns more. The B2 English requirement is already being introduced for some routes.

Income and Employment

Current: Must meet visa salary threshold. Proposed: Scored based on tax contributions, NI payments, and salary level. Higher earners score more.

Community Involvement

Current: Not assessed. Proposed: Points for volunteering, civic participation, and community leadership.

Life in the UK Test

Current: Required (pass or fail). Proposed: Still required, may carry additional weight.

Good Character

Current: Required. Proposed: Still required. The good character criteria may be updated alongside the points system.

Absences

Current: 180 days in any 12-month period. Proposed: Expected to remain the same, though excessive absences may reduce points.

Cost

Current: ILR application fee plus IHS. Proposed: Fees not yet announced but expected to be similar or higher.

Who Benefits from the Change?

The proposed system creates winners and losers compared to the current rules:

Better Off Under the New System

High earners who can accumulate maximum economic points
People with excellent English (B2 or above)
Active community volunteers and civic participants
NHS workers, teachers, and care workers who qualify for public service points
People with UK qualifications

Potentially Worse Off Under the New System

Lower earners who meet the current threshold but would score fewer economic points
People with B1 English who do not want to or cannot improve further
People who work long hours and have limited time for community involvement
Anyone who would have qualified for ILR at 5 years under the current system but cannot accumulate enough points for accelerated settlement

What Should You Do Now?

The most important thing is to understand where you stand. If you are approaching ILR eligibility under the current rules, apply now rather than waiting for the new system. The points system timeline suggests implementation is at least a year away, but rules can change faster than expected.

If you are earlier in your journey, start building your points record now. Even if the exact scoring criteria have not been published, the broad categories are clear. Maintain continuous employment, improve your English, get involved in your community, and keep detailed records of everything.

For the latest official information on ILR requirements, visit the GOV.UK indefinite leave to remain page.