The House of Commons Home Affairs Committee resumes its ‘Routes to Settlement’ inquiry today, grilling charities, trade unions and business leaders about the government’s proposal to double the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to ten years. (committees.parliament.uk)
In the afternoon session, children’s rights advocates—including Barnardo’s and We Belong—warned that lengthening the route could trap migrant families in a decade-long cycle of £3,000 visa renewals, risking poverty and hampering integration. They argued that many young people would become adults before their parents qualify, leaving them in limbo.
![MPs probe 10-year ILR plan’s impact on children and medium-skilled workers]()
A second panel focused on employers in health and social care, construction and hospitality, sectors that depend heavily on medium-skilled migrant labour. The TUC and the CBI told MPs the changes could deter talent just as the UK faces record vacancy rates, forcing firms to divert investment overseas. Care England predicted higher churn and recruitment costs in an already stretched sector.
Committee chair Dame Diana Johnson said the evidence would shape recommendations to the Home Office before a formal consultation closes this spring. She signalled particular concern over the cumulative £15,000 cost a family of four would face during the extended qualifying period.
Global mobility managers should monitor the inquiry closely. If adopted, the ‘earned settlement’ model could require longer strategic workforce planning, additional visa-renewal budgeting and revised relocation policies, especially for staff on five-year assignment cycles. The Committee’s report is expected before Easter and could influence the final Immigration Rules draft slated for July.
In the afternoon session, children’s rights advocates—including Barnardo’s and We Belong—warned that lengthening the route could trap migrant families in a decade-long cycle of £3,000 visa renewals, risking poverty and hampering integration. They argued that many young people would become adults before their parents qualify, leaving them in limbo.
A second panel focused on employers in health and social care, construction and hospitality, sectors that depend heavily on medium-skilled migrant labour. The TUC and the CBI told MPs the changes could deter talent just as the UK faces record vacancy rates, forcing firms to divert investment overseas. Care England predicted higher churn and recruitment costs in an already stretched sector.
Committee chair Dame Diana Johnson said the evidence would shape recommendations to the Home Office before a formal consultation closes this spring. She signalled particular concern over the cumulative £15,000 cost a family of four would face during the extended qualifying period.
Global mobility managers should monitor the inquiry closely. If adopted, the ‘earned settlement’ model could require longer strategic workforce planning, additional visa-renewal budgeting and revised relocation policies, especially for staff on five-year assignment cycles. The Committee’s report is expected before Easter and could influence the final Immigration Rules draft slated for July.
