Information from... NAVCA
A Fairer Pathway to Settlement - consultation on earned settlement as part of the immigration system
The Home Office has published a consultation on the Earned Settlement Model as part of its reforms to immigration and asylum.
“‘Earned settlement’ is a principle that recognises the value of long-term contribution to the UK. Rather than granting settlement after a fixed period, this approach ensures that individuals demonstrate sustained commitment through work, community involvement, or other meaningful contributions before being granted permanent status. It aims to reward those who actively support the country’s social and economic fabric, reinforcing fairness and public confidence in the immigration system.”
The standard qualifying period will increase from 5 to 10 years but people will have the ability to reduce this minimum period based on their contribution to the economy and society. This will be based on four core pillars of: character, integration, contribution and residence.
Within the contribution pillar volunteering is listed as an example of how an applicant has contributed to the community. The Home Office is considering whether volunteering, should be recognised as a form of contribution towards earned settlement.
Whilst volunteering is not yet stated as mandatory, as was suggested in earlier media coverage of the announcement, it is likely to be an option for a person to use to help reduce their qualifying period. Given that other options to reduce the qualifying period require either earning more that £50K per annum for three years or working in a public service occupation [health or education] it could be chosen by many people. This has significant implications for the VCSE sector.
The consultation runs until 12 February 2026. NAVCA will be considering the proposals carefully and will consult you for your views, particularly in relation to the use of volunteering within the Earned Settlement Model.
