Latest ILR News & 2026 Updates
The most significant changes to UK immigration in a generation are unfolding right now. ILR fee rose to £3,226 on 8 April. Earned settlement (5→10 years) confirmed for Autumn 2026. The 5-year route is still fully in force — but the window to apply is closing.
All Posts
ILR News & Analysis — April 2026
In-depth coverage of the earned settlement consultation, parliamentary debates, fee increases, sponsor compliance changes, and practical guidance for applicants at every stage.
Apply for ILR Before the 2026 Deadline — Complete Action Guide
Step-by-step: who qualifies now, the old vs new system comparison, full document checklist, and exactly how to apply before earned settlement rules take effect in Autumn 2026.
Blog PostILR Parliament Debate — Westminster Hall February 2026
What happened at the 2 February 2026 Westminster Hall debate, what the 340,000+ petitioners demanded, what the Minister confirmed, and where earned settlement stands in April 2026.
Blog PostSkilled Worker Sponsor Duties 2026 — New Per-Period Salary Rule
From 7 April 2026, sponsors must pay the minimum salary every pay period — no more annual averaging. Full compliance checklist for employers and what employees need to monitor.
Blog PostDependants & Family Impact — The Earned Settlement Proposals
Under the new model, adult dependants may need to qualify independently. What this means for 430,000+ children on temporary visas, partner route applicants, and why families should act now.
Blog PostLegal Challenges to Earned Settlement — Judicial Review & Refusal Options
Legitimate expectation, Article 8 ECHR, judicial review grounds, administrative review after refusal — what legal options exist and how to find a regulated immigration adviser.
Blog PostTransition Protections 2026 — Who May Be Exempt from the 10-Year Rule?
EU Settled Status and refugees confirmed protected. Spouse/Partner and BNO likely exempt. Skilled Workers face the most uncertainty. Four possible transitional models explained.
Blog PostILR Processing Times 2026 — Standard, Priority & Super Priority
Current processing targets: ~6 months standard, ~5 working days priority, next working day super priority. How to plan around biometrics, Section 3C leave, and the £1,000 super priority fee.
Blog PostBiometrics & UKVCAS Appointments 2026 — How to Book & What to Expect
How the UKVCAS booking system works, core vs enhanced service, what to bring, the eVisa transition impact, and tips for finding available slots when your local centre is busy.
Blog PostAlternatives to ILR 2026 — Other Routes to UK Permanent Status
Long Residence (act now — may be abolished), Global Talent (3-year ILR), Innovator Founder (3 years), BNO (5 years, likely protected), and why citizenship cannot bypass ILR.
Blog PostPayroll & Tax Evidence for ILR 2026 — Complete Document Guide
Per-period salary compliance from 7 April 2026, what payslips to gather, how to write an employer letter, bank statement requirements, P60s, and handling gaps in employment.
Blog PostMid-Process ILR Applications 2026 — If Rules Change While You Wait
Whether new rules apply to pending applications, how Section 3C leave protects you, the risks of travelling while pending, and what to do if your application is refused mid-process.