Indefinite Leave to Remain ILR Explained: Nigel Farage’s Immigration Reform Plans and Their Impact on the UK Election

What Is Indefinite Leave to Remain ILR?

Indefinite Leave to Remain ILR is a form of permanent residency status that allows non-British citizens to live in the UK without restrictions. Holders of ILR can:

• Work and study without needing further visas.

• Access most public benefits.

• Apply for British citizenship after one additional year, provided they meet other requirements.

Currently, many migrants qualify for ILR after five years of lawful residence. This pathway has been crucial for hundreds of thousands of people who have built their lives in the UK.

Reform UK Nigel Farage Proposals: The End of ILR

Nigel Farage has placed immigration reform at the heart of his campaign, and his plans target ILR directly. His proposal would:

• Abolish ILR entirely and replace it with a renewable five-year visa.

• Require reapplication every five years with stricter salary thresholds and tougher English language requirements.

• Restrict or remove access to welfare benefits for non-citizens.

• Extend the time needed before applying for UK citizenship to around seven years.

• Limit or even ban dual citizenship for new applicants.

Farage has argued that abolishing ILR will save the UK billions and reduce net migration, framing it as a measure to protect public services and taxpayers.

Who Would Be Affected?

Analysts estimate that around 800,000 people could be impacted by these changes in the coming years. The groups most at risk include:

• Migrants currently in the UK and working toward ILR.

• Existing ILR holders who may be forced to reapply under the new rules.

• Families of migrants relying on ILR for stability and access to services.

Some categories, such as EU citizens with settled status, may be partially exempt. However, critics warn that widespread uncertainty would disrupt lives and strain communities.

The Express Debate: Supporters vs Critics

Coverage in national outlets including The Express highlights the sharp divide between supporters of Farage’s plan and its critics.

Supporters argue:

• It will reduce immigration pressures.

• It will protect the welfare system from abuse.

• It enforces stronger integration through language and income requirements.

Critics counter:

• Revoking ILR may be unlawful and could breach international agreements.

• The estimated £230 billion in savings is based on disputed figures.

• Sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and construction could face severe labour shortages.

• Families who have lived in the UK for years could face deportation or separation.

Key Differences Between Current Rules and Proposed Changes

Nigel Farage Indefinite Leave to Remain: A Defining Election Issue

The proposal to scrap ILR has become a defining point in the political campaign. For many voters, immigration remains one of the most pressing issues, and Farage has positioned himself as the only leader willing to take radical steps.

However, his opponents describe the plan as divisive and unrealistic. Legal experts predict years of litigation if the government attempts to strip existing ILR holders of their rights. Meanwhile, economists warn of labour shortages at a time when the UK economy is already struggling.

What This Means for the UK Election

Immigration has always been a polarising topic, but the stakes are particularly high in this UK election. Reform UK Nigel Farage is using the abolition of ILR as a rallying point for his supporters, promising to cut immigration numbers drastically.

The outcome of the election could determine whether these proposals remain campaign rhetoric or evolve into official policy. Either way, the issue of indefinite leave to remain ILR and its future will continue to dominate political and public debate.