By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A migrant workers’ advocate, Darshan Patel, has urged the UK Government to maintain the current five-year route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), warning that extending the settlement period would impose severe financial and emotional strain on thousands of migrants.
Patel made the appeal on Saturday in response to proposed immigration reforms that could lengthen the settlement pathway to 10–15 years for some visa categories. In a letter to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, he argued that many migrants arrived in the UK with the clear expectation of eligibility for settlement after five years, describing the proposed shift as “deeply unfair”.
He noted that migrant workers are already grappling with substantial financial obligations, including steep visa fees and the NHS surcharge. Patel also raised concerns about alleged exploitation by some employers who reportedly demand between £20,000 and £25,000 for visa renewals—claims he says rarely prompt meaningful action even when reported through official channels or tribunals.
Calling for the five-year route to be preserved for current residents, Patel urged the Home Office to introduce stronger safeguards against employer abuse and to protect migrants who have lived lawfully in the UK, paid taxes, and contributed significantly to critical sectors such as social care.
His remarks come amid heightened anxiety within migrant communities and labour unions, who fear that the proposed reforms could make long-term settlement increasingly out of reach.
Petition: Keep 5-Year ILR and Restrict Access to Benefits for New ILR Holders https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/746363