How the construction sector can sway the UK’s earned settlement consultation

5 February 2026

James Lamont has written a brief explainer on how and why the construction industry can influence the UK government’s “earned settlement” consultation in Construction News. Organisations and individuals have until 12 February to respond to the government’s consultation on overhauling UK settlement. For the construction industry this isn’t a niche immigration issue, writes Vanessa Ganguin Immigration Law Associate James Lamont: “Proposals directly impact recruitment, retention, employment costs and the viability of building a career in the UK.”

The UK government’s settlement consultation could significantly impact the construction industry. Proposals would extend the settlement qualification period for many tradespeople—such as welders, electricians and plumbers—from five to 15 years. This change would add complexity, increase immigration and sponsorship costs up to threefold, and make the UK less attractive to skilled workers looking for somewhere to make a career.

Firms might face years of repeated visa renewals and higher fees according to proposals that the government is inviting people to give their opinion on. Workers already in the UK would also be affected unless transitional rules apply, risking morale and staff retention.

Roles on the Temporary Shortage List, already barred from family dependants joining them, could move to a 15-year settlement track, worsening skills shortages. The proposal threatens a sector that does more than its fair share to train UK workers through the CITB levy and apprenticeships.

Stakeholders are urged to respond by 12 February 2026 to highlight its impact on recruitment, project delivery, and workforce stability by following this link: gov.uk/government/consultations/earned-settlement.

You can read more about the proposals and questions in the consultation in this more detailed explanation that James Lamont has written to help formulate your responses.

Anyone concerned about these proposals or any other immigration matters can contact us for a consultation. You can use the form below, email one of our lawyers or call 0207 033 9527.

James Lamont advises private individuals and businesses on all areas of immigration and nationality law. He has successfully advised a broad range of business sectors including tech, finance, entertainment and education. For private clients, James provides advice ranging from highly complex and unusual applications requiring discretion from the Home Office to integrated global mobility projects for family offices and high net worth clients, including elements of business immigration law where applicable.

Photograph of builders by Hush Naidoo Jade Photography / Unsplash