An expected settlement date can influence career decisions, family plans and a business's retention strategy. It should be calculated from the applicant's immigration history and the relevant rules, rather than from the date they first arrived in the UK or a headline about immigration reform.
As at 26 October 2026, Appendix Skilled Worker retains a five-year qualifying period for settlement. The government's earned-settlement consultation concerns wider reform; it should not be treated as having already replaced that rule with a universal ten-year requirement.
Which residence counts?
Paragraphs SW 21.1 and SW 21.2 specify the qualifying period and the routes that can be combined. Time on Skilled Worker and certain other work routes can count. Ordinary periods on Student or Graduate permission are not qualifying routes for this purpose, and time as a dependant is not interchangeable with time on the main applicant's route. Any specific exception requires separate checking.
For example, someone who spent two years on Graduate permission before moving to Skilled Worker should not assume that only three further years are needed for settlement on that route. A different route to settlement may involve different calculations and conditions.
Absences also require attention. The general continuous-residence requirement limits absences to 180 days in any 12-month period, subject to the detailed rules and exceptions. A total for each calendar year may not answer the question. Keep a dated travel record and obtain advice where absences, gaps in permission or a change of route could affect the calculation.
Five years does not establish eligibility by itself
The applicant must satisfy the remaining requirements, including suitability, continuous residence, the relevant salary and sponsorship conditions and knowledge of life in the UK. The sponsor must remain approved and confirm that the employee is required for the foreseeable future. A planned change of employer, role or pay should therefore be considered before the application is prepared.
Family members need their own assessment. A partner's qualifying period may differ from the main applicant's, and the applicable requirements should be checked before arranging applications together.
A future English-language requirement
Paragraph SW 22A.1 provides for English speaking and listening at level B2 for settlement applications made on or after 26 March 2027, unless an exemption applies. This future application date is distinct from the broader earned-settlement proposals.
Applicants approaching settlement should check what evidence will be needed and allow time to obtain it. Reaching an anticipated anniversary does not justify submitting an incomplete application or relying on an outdated assessment.
Review immigration permission, travel records, employment evidence and family circumstances together. Balaghi & Rose advises businesses, professionals and families on immigration and settlement. Contact our team for an assessment of the relevant route and application timetable.
General information only. This article concerns UK immigration law and reflects the position checked on 26 October 2026. It is not legal advice.
