The United Nations refugee agency has criticised UK plans under which some refugees could wait up to 30 years before they can apply to settle in the UK. UNHCR told The Guardian on 4 November that the extended qualifying period "raises significant concerns" and was "likely to be detrimental".

What the plan covers

The criticism follows Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's announcement on 2 November of the Government's earned settlement framework. Under that framework, the starting point for settlement — indefinite leave to remain — rises from five years to 10 years for most applicants, with faster or slower routes depending on contribution, integration, compliance and residence. People who arrived by irregular means, such as small boats, face the longest routes, up to 30 years in the cases highlighted by UNHCR.

UNHCR's concern

UNHCR said an extended qualifying period for settlement raised particular concern alongside shorter-term stay arrangements and changes that would prevent many people from ever accessing citizenship. Campaigners including the Helen Bamber Foundation also raised concerns about the 30-year route. The Government's consultation outcome says distinct arrangements for refugees are included, and that further technical guidance and a full impact assessment will be published before implementation.

Not yet law

The framework is announced policy, not yet law: the Immigration Rules have not been changed and no commencement date has been given for the new settlement routes. Readers should check the official GOV.UK page, as rules change — this article is general news reporting, not personal immigration advice.

Sources: The Guardian, UNHCR criticises UK's 30-year earned settlement plans for refugees, 4 November 2026; GOV.UK, Earned settlement consultation outcome; Asylum Matters, Earned settlement: sign the petition against unjust new rules, 4 November 2026.