Urgent Update: Write to Your MP – Stop the Settlement Wait Doubling
This Monday 8th of September 2025, MPs will debate new immigration plans that would make migrants wait 10 years instead of 5 years before applying for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
This proposal comes from the immigration white paper and would have a huge impact on migrant families: Double the visa fees – costing thousands more in repeat applications, double the stress and insecurity, 10 years of uncertainty before being allowed to settle and no full rights or stability for twice as long.
Many MPs do not realise how damaging this would be for families in their own communities. That’s why it’s vital they hear your story directly.
How to write to your MP, it takes less than 5 minutes
Step 1 - Find your local MP and get their email address.
Your local MP is elected to listen to you and speak up for your needs in parliament, no matter your immigration status.
Step 2 - Tell the MP your issue, via email.
Firstly, introduce yourself
Start by introducing yourself. Tell your MP who you are, what kind of work you do, when you came to the UK (if that applies), and what you were hoping for when you arrived.
Example: “I am a care worker. I came to the UK in 2023 on a Health and Care Worker visa, hoping to build a stable life here while supporting our health system.”
Describe your problem
Explain what you are going through right now. This could be challenges with your visa, or worries about new government plans, like doubling the time people must wait before applying for settlement.
Tell your MP how they can help
Be clear about what you want your MP to do. Ask them to take action, whether that’s raising your issue in parliament, challenging harmful proposals, or supporting fairer policies.
Example: “Please speak out against this plan in parliament and push for a settlement route that is shorter, fairer, and more secure for families like mine.”
Sample letter to your MP
Dear [MP’s Name],
My name is [Your Name]. I live in your constituency and I work as a [your job]. I came to the UK in [year] on a [visa type], hoping to build a safe and stable life here while contributing to my community.
I am very worried about the government’s proposal to make people wait 10 years before they can apply for settlement. This change would mean higher visa costs, more stress, and years of living in insecurity for me and many families like mine. It would make it harder for us to feel safe, to plan for the future, and to fully take part in society.
I am asking you, as my MP, to speak up about this issue in parliament. Please oppose this policy and support a fairer, shorter route to settlement that allows migrants and their families to live with dignity and security.
Thank you for taking the time to listen.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address or Postcode]
Step 3 - Share this urgent message with your friends, colleagues or community.
Please share far and wide after you send email to your MP.
