Britain tightens requirements for Ukrainian refugees: what will change in the rules of residence
30 September 22:40
The UK is preparing to significantly tighten the requirements for foreigners seeking permanent residence status – Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This was was reported the Guardian newspaper, citing statements by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, reports "Komersant Ukrainian".
Although the official legislative changes are still at the stage of proposals and discussions, experts emphasize that the new rules will affect all categories of migrants, including Ukrainian refugees who found themselves in Britain after the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
According to the announced plans, one of the key criteria for obtaining ILR will be a high level of English language proficiency. Previously, basic knowledge was considered sufficient, but now it will be an “advanced level” that allows for full integration into society. The exact mechanism of verification – through standardized tests, courses, or other forms of assessment – has not yet been specified, but it is already clear that the requirements will become stricter.
Another condition is an impeccable reputation. Minister Mahmoud emphasized that even minor offenses can be grounds for refusal to grant status. In this way, the government is signaling that it is ready to punish the slightest violation of the law and links the right to permanent residence to high moral standards.
Much attention is also paid to the financial independence of applicants. The new rules stipulate that an ILR recipient must not be on public assistance, i.e., not receive social benefits. Instead, the person must work, pay National Insurance contributions, and prove their ability to support themselves. Participation in volunteer or community initiatives is also seen as a positive factor that demonstrates the applicant’s willingness to integrate into society and contribute to community development.
At the same time, the government is considering extending the period required to obtain ILR. Traditionally, the right to permanent residence arose after five years of legal residence in the country. Currently, the government is discussing an option under which this period could increase to ten years for those who do not meet the enhanced criteria. In this way, the authorities seek to create a system of incentives where faster access to permanent status will be a reward for active work, high integration and impeccable behavior.
What remains unclear at the stage of proposals
- there is no final law yet, these rules are at the stage of proposals and discussions;
- it is unclear whether they will be retroactive to those already residing in the UK or who have been granted visas as Ukrainian refugees;
- how a “high level” of English will be assessed, what test system will be used, how language skills will be assessed, and how much time will be given to improve language skills;
- how the “purity of reputation” will be checked;
- what kind of minor offenses will be considered sufficient for rejection.
- there are also questions about whether there will be exceptions (for example, for the vulnerable, war victims, people unable to work, people with poor health).
From benefits to strict requirements: how British policy towards Ukrainian refugees is changing
This issue is of particular relevance to Ukrainians who have found refuge in Britain from the war. Many of them are in the country thanks to the Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme, and Ukraine Extension Scheme programs. However, it is not yet clear how the new requirements will be applied to these particular categories. Some lawyers believe that the new rules will apply to everyone without exception, while others suggest that there may be some exemptions for vulnerable groups affected by the war.
There are no final decisions yet: it is only a matter of political intentions and discussions at the government level. However, the tone of British officials’ statements indicates that the direction has been chosen to be tougher, and the rules of immigration policy may indeed change in the near future. This means that Ukrainians who plan to stay in the UK for a long time will have to prepare for new realities – improve their English, closely monitor the legal “purity” of their status, and become more involved in the life of the communities in which they live.
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Thus, the UK government aims to make permanent residence not just a formal procedure, but the result of many years of efforts by migrants to prove their loyalty, ability to work and willingness to be part of British society.
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