Survey results: potential impact of UK earned settlement reforms | March 2026
10 March 2026
Thank you to all members who took part in the recent Chamber survey on the potential business impact of the UK’s proposed changes to the “earned settlement” rules.
The survey has now closed and the results have been analysed alongside a community survey of residents currently on a route to settlement on the Isle of Man, conducted by Fair Settlement Isle of Man.
Together, the two surveys provide a clearer picture of how the proposed UK changes could affect both businesses and the international workforce currently living and working on the Island.
Key insights from the surveys
• 103 Isle of Man employers responded to the Chamber survey.• 268 residents currently on settlement pathways responded to the community survey.
Across both surveys, several consistent themes emerged:
• Most affected residents would not meet the salary threshold that could accelerate settlement.73% of respondents earn below £50,270, limiting access to the faster route under the proposed UK model.
• Workforce stability could be affected.84% of surveyed households said extended settlement timelines would or may affect their ability to remain on the Island.
• Employers are concerned about retention risk.66% of businesses reported a likely or uncertain risk of losing staff if the proposed changes are implemented.
• Impacts could emerge quickly.Over half of employers anticipate potential workforce impacts within six months if settlement timelines are extended.
The data also shows that affected individuals are spread across multiple sectors of the Manx economy, including healthcare, financial services, hospitality, construction, retail, ICT and professional services.
Next steps
The findings from both surveys have been shared with Minister Tim Johnston and Minister Chris Thomas to help inform early discussions about the potential implications for the Isle of Man.
The UK consultation process has now closed, and a formal announcement on the reforms is expected in April, with implementation anticipated in autumn 2026.
Separately, Juan Watterson MHK has asked whether the Isle of Man intends to extend the settlement qualification period to ten years if the UK proceeds with the reforms, with a response expected by 17 March.
Read the full report
A detailed report analysing the combined results of the employer survey and the community survey has been produced by Fair Settlement Isle of Man.
Members who would like to explore the findings in more depth can read the full report here:
• Fair Settlement Isle of Man – Settlement Pathways Workforce Impact Briefing
• Correlation between employer and community survey results
The report provides further detail on sector exposure, workforce implications and the alignment between employer concerns and the intentions of affected residents currently living and working on the Island.
Thank you again to everyone who contributed to the survey.