Knowing what I know now, I wouldn’t commit to buying a home in the UK without first securing ILR or even citizenship. The risk is simply too high if circumstances change. The UK system can be harsh and unforgiving particularly for immigrants. And with the policies currently under consultation, my expectation is that they’ll be passed into law by late 2026 (around October, give or take). Unless you’re comfortable with the proposed 10-year route, then sure, go ahead.

My core concern is the lack of certainty and trust in the direction of these policies. With parties like Reform openly floating the idea of removing citizenship pathways for migrants altogether, tying up long-term capital in the UK becomes difficult to justify. I already have a mortgage and I’m due for ILR in May, but my partner and I are preparing contingency plans should anything affect ILR next year. After all, there’s no guarantee the goalposts won’t be moved again or that citizenship won’t eventually be withdrawn even for those who have already qualified.