Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, has pledged to tighten immigration policies, making it more challenging for immigrants to obtain British citizenship.
In one of her first major policy announcements since assuming leadership, Badenoch proposed extending the required residency period before immigrants can apply for citizenship from the current standard to 15 years.
She also emphasized that indefinite leave to remain (ILR)—a key step toward citizenship—should not be granted to individuals with criminal records or those who have received government benefits or social housing.
According to Badenoch, British citizenship is a privilege rather than an automatic right and should be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated a “meaningful connection to the UK.”
Indefinite leave to remain grants individuals the right to live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions. Under current regulations, ILR is typically available to those who have legally resided and worked in the UK for at least five years. However, certain visa categories allow applicants to qualify in as little as two to three years.
Badenoch’s proposed reforms are expected to spark debate, as they could significantly impact the pathway to citizenship for thousands of immigrants seeking permanent residency in the UK.
