England, UK: The comments come at a time when the United Kingdom is weighing proposals to lengthen settlement timelines for most migrant categories to as much as 10 years.
Indian-origin technology educator Kunal Kushwaha recently drew attention to a faster option for securing permanent residence in the UK through the Global Talent Visa, even as the country moves toward longer residency requirements for many migrants.
Sharing his experience on X, Kushwaha said he secured indefinite leave to remain in just three years after receiving endorsement under the Exceptional Talent route. “I got my UK permanent residency in 3 years,” he wrote, noting that although immigration rules are evolving, the Global Talent Visa still offers a viable route for those who meet the criteria.
His statement comes amid ongoing discussions within the UK government about revising immigration policies, including proposals that could increase the standard settlement eligibility period to up to a decade for several visa types.
Kushwaha explained that for individuals endorsed under the Exceptional Talent pathway, time spent residing in the UK is counted toward eligibility for indefinite leave to remain. He described the process as a two-step procedure: first obtaining approval from a recognized endorsing organization, followed by submitting the visa application.
According to him, his endorsement was strengthened by factors such as open-source contributions, entrepreneurial initiatives, speaking engagements at conferences, and professional experience in the cloud computing sector. He also pointed to documented work, code contributions, and industry recognition as key elements that supported his case.
The post triggered a broader online discussion, highlighting growing concerns among migrant communities regarding the UK’s economic conditions and employment landscape.
One user, identifying as a long-term UK passport holder, advised caution against relocating solely for settlement opportunities, pointing to constrained job prospects and uncertainties around long-term financial stability.
These exchanges are taking place while the UK government continues a comprehensive review of immigration policy and signals a shift toward an “earned settlement” approach.
Under the proposed framework, most migrants may be required to complete longer periods of residence before becoming eligible for permanent status, while accelerated routes could remain limited to select groups viewed as offering significant economic or strategic benefit.
The Global Talent Visa, introduced in 2020 as a replacement for the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent visa, remains promoted by UK authorities as a channel for highly skilled individuals to contribute to the national economy and, over time, obtain permanent settlement.
