The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has released a hard-hitting study calling for a “root-and-branch” reform of the UK citizenship system. Reported by the Electronic Immigration Network on 24 September 2026, the paper labels current naturalisation fees—£1,580 for adults and £1,214 for children—“prohibitively expensive” and proposes capping charges at the administrative cost of £475. The IPPR argues that Britain’s immigration regime is skewed toward temporary status, with only 20 % of skilled workers applying for settlement after five years. Researchers recommend streamlining the route to citizenship by granting automatic settlement to anyone who has paid income tax for six consecutive years, provided they meet language and security checks. For employers, the think-tank suggests a rebate on Immigration Skills Charge payments where a sponsored worker transitions to settlement, incentivising firms to invest in long-term talent rather than relying on churn. It also proposes reducing or waiving fees for shortage-occupation roles such as social care, a measure that could ease chronic staffing gaps in the NHS and care homes. While the Home Office has yet to respond, MPs from across the political spectrum have signalled interest in the fee-cap proposal. Mobility advisers say that, if adopted, the recommendations would materially lower total cost of ownership per assignee and could influence retention strategies.
Source: Electronic Immigration Network
