A series of first-person accounts published by The Guardian on 15 November captures mounting anxiety among skilled migrants about Reform UK’s proposed immigration platform. The right-wing party has pledged to abolish Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and raise the Skilled Worker salary threshold to about £60,000—almost 45 per cent above today’s general level. Interviewees include an American A&E doctor, an Indian defence engineer and a Syrian charity worker who all fear losing the right to settle despite years of contribution to the UK economy.
The article underscores the political risk multinationals face as immigration becomes a flash-point ahead of the 2026 general election. Employers that rely on overseas talent in healthcare, engineering and tech could see retention challenges if settlement pathways disappear or become unaffordable.
![Migrant professionals voice alarm over Reform UK’s plans to scrap Indefinite Leave to Remain]()
Global-mobility advisers note that ILR eligibility is a key incentive for mid-career professionals who accept below-market pay in exchange for longer-term security. Uncertainty about future rules already complicates workforce planning; some firms are exploring EU hubs such as Dublin or Amsterdam as contingency locations.
While Reform UK is still polling below the two main parties, its surge has pushed Labour and Conservatives to compete on toughness—adding yet more volatility to the policy outlook. Companies should scenario-plan for thresholds ranging from £41,700 to £60,000 and consider early ILR applications for staff who qualify under current rules.
The article underscores the political risk multinationals face as immigration becomes a flash-point ahead of the 2026 general election. Employers that rely on overseas talent in healthcare, engineering and tech could see retention challenges if settlement pathways disappear or become unaffordable.
Global-mobility advisers note that ILR eligibility is a key incentive for mid-career professionals who accept below-market pay in exchange for longer-term security. Uncertainty about future rules already complicates workforce planning; some firms are exploring EU hubs such as Dublin or Amsterdam as contingency locations.
While Reform UK is still polling below the two main parties, its surge has pushed Labour and Conservatives to compete on toughness—adding yet more volatility to the policy outlook. Companies should scenario-plan for thresholds ranging from £41,700 to £60,000 and consider early ILR applications for staff who qualify under current rules.
