Nigerians living in the UK could soon face tougher rules before qualifying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), following new announcements from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood at the Labour Conference.
She revealed that under Labour’s proposed immigration changes, the right to settle permanently in Britain will no longer be automatic after five years — instead, migrants must prove that they are contributing to the UK socially and economically.
What Will Change?
Currently, most migrants can apply for ILR after five years of living legally in the UK on work or family visas. But under the new plans, ILR will only be granted if you can show that you:
- Pay taxes and National Insurance
- Do not claim benefits
- Have a clean criminal record
- Can speak fluent English
- And ideally, show community involvement (such as volunteering, serving as a school governor, or other forms of social contribution)
In Mahmood’s words: “Remaining leave must be earned.”
This means that Nigerians in the UK working towards ILR may now face stricter checks. For many, the five-year pathway could extend to 10 years, and those who don’t meet the requirements may risk losing their chance to settle.
Why Is This Happening?
Labour’s tougher stance comes as a direct response to pressure from Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, who recently suggested scrapping ILR for hundreds of thousands of migrants. Labour insists its version is more balanced — requiring fairness while still recognising the contributions of migrants.
Mahmood highlighted her own family’s migration story, stressing that her parents didn’t just work but also actively contributed to their community in Birmingham. She wants today’s migrants to show the same.
What This Means for Nigerians in the UK
If you are working, paying taxes, and integrating into your community, you are more likely to qualify for ILR under these new rules. But Nigerians who rely on benefits or fail to demonstrate social value could struggle to secure settlement.
This proposal could affect the 810,000 migrants expected to apply for ILR by 2040, many of whom are Nigerians already building lives in the UK. With nearly 78% of applicants earning below the UK’s average salary (£37,430), financial contribution will be a key factor to watch.
Reactions and Concerns
- Criticism: Refugee groups argue that punishing migrants who need temporary support will make integration harder, not easier.
- Supporters: Labour insists that these measures are needed to ensure migration remains “fair” and sustainable, while preventing the far-right from exploiting frustrations over immigration.
What Nigerians Should Do Now
- Stay informed about the upcoming consultation on ILR rules.
- Keep records of your tax contributions, volunteering, and community work.
- Ensure your English proficiency is strong enough for any new requirements.
- Seek immigration advice early if you’re nearing the five-year ILR mark.
👉 For Nigerians in the UK, these changes mean one thing: ILR will no longer be just about time served — it will be about proving your value to Britain.
Join Our WhatsApp Channel
Stay updated on the latest UK news, including education, health, job openings, and more for those living in the UK!
Join here: Naija UK Channel
Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and discussions:
- Twitter: @NaijaUKConnect
- Facebook: Naija UK Connect
- Instagram: @naijaukconnect
