The Government’s Earned Settlement consultation closes on 12 February 2026, leaving just one week for providers to respond.
The proposals have significant implications for care and support services and could materially affect the future stability of the adult social care workforce.
If implemented, care workers and senior care workers would face the longest settlement route in the UK immigration system, with many required to complete 15 years on sponsored visas before becoming eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). At present, there is no clarity on transitional protections for those already living and working in the UK.
For a sector already experiencing sustained recruitment and retention pressures, this represents a serious and unprecedented risk.
More than 385,000 international workers are currently delivering vital care across our communities. Without direct input from providers, decisions risk being made with insufficient evidence from those who understand the operational realities of social care.
Why this consultation matters
The proposals would mean:
• Care workers (SOC 6135) and senior care workers (SOC 6136) must complete 15 years before settlement
• Higher earners may qualify for reductions of 5–7 years, but most care roles are excluded
• A two-tier system that leaves essential frontline staff on the longest pathway to settlement in the UK
This approach is neither fair nor sustainable for a sector already facing workforce shortages.
What providers can do this week
We have prepared practical resources to help providers respond quickly and confidently. These are available here and include:
• A framework consultation response summarising the key concerns, risks and recommendations
• Step-by-step guidance to support completing your submission
• Evidence prompts that government departments respond strongly to, including recruitment challenges, retention pressures, turnover costs and continuity of care risks
• Template letters and briefing notes to support engagement with local MPs and council leaders
Even a brief submission outlining the realities facing your workforce provides valuable evidence.
Recommended actions
Providers are encouraged to:
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Submit a consultation response before 12 February 2026
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Share the information with partner organisations and local networks
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Use the templates and briefings on sesca.org.uk to contact your MP and raise concerns locally
Act before the deadline
This is a time-limited opportunity to influence policy before it is finalised. Once the consultation closes, the opportunity to shape these decisions will be lost.
Taking a short amount of time this week to respond will help ensure the voice of adult social care is properly represented.