A growing petition campaign is calling on Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to reverse her proposed changes to the UK’s Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) system. Critics argue the reforms break promises and sharply raise the bar for long-term residency.
Mahmood’s proposals would double the qualifying period for ILR from five to ten years, while also requiring new kinds of “contribution” including high-level English skills, a spotless criminal record, full-time employment, and community volunteering.
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Opponents of the plan say it undermines fairness for migrants who came under the expectation of a straightforward five-year path to settlement. Many who signed the petition argue they have already paid visa fees, contributed taxes, and integrated into British society. The petition demands the government honour the original five-year ILR promise.
Women’s rights groups, migrant organisations, and ordinary residents have expressed concern that the new rules could create a “moral test” for belonging, rather than a clear and stable path to permanence. Some say this shift turns settlement into a performance rather than a right.
With cross-party unease growing including from some Labour MPs the petitioners hope their efforts will force a rethink.
