Britain’s Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced sweeping changes to immigration policy on Monday, as the Labour Party seeks to counter the growing influence of the hard-right Reform UK party at its annual conference in Liverpool.

Under the proposed rules, migrants seeking permanent residency, known as "indefinite leave to remain", would need to meet stricter criteria. They must hold a job, refrain from claiming benefits, contribute to social security, maintain a clean criminal record, and engage in community volunteer work. Mahmood is expected to tell party members that migrants should also “learn English to a high standard” and that she will be a “tough” minister on immigration.

The move marks a significant shift from current policy, which allows migrants with family ties in Britain to apply for permanent residence after five years, or after ten years of legal residency on any visa. Those who qualify gain the right to live, work, study, and apply for benefits and citizenship.

Labour’s announcement comes in response to Reform UK’s recent proposal to abolish indefinite leave to remain entirely, requiring migrants to reapply for visas every five years. The Labour Party condemned the plan, stating it “would force workers, who have been contributing to this country for decades, to leave their homes and families.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer sharply criticized Reform’s stance, calling it “racist” and “immoral,” warning that it would “tear the country apart.” He urged his party to unite for the “fight of our lives” against Reform leader Nigel Farage, whose popularity has surged in recent polls.

Mahmood, a British-born barrister of Pakistani descent, will caution that failing to address irregular migration risks alienating working-class voters. “Working people will turn away from us... and seek solace in the false promises” of Farage, she is expected to say.

Meanwhile, over 100 organizations have urged Mahmood to “end the scapegoating of migrants and performative policies that only cause harm.” The call comes amid ongoing struggles by British and French authorities to manage dangerous Channel crossings. On Saturday alone, 895 migrants arrived in the UK aboard 12 small boats, with one vessel carrying a record 125 people.

Labour plans to consult on the proposed changes later this year, as the immigration debate intensifies against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, high inflation, and rising borrowing costs.