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Indian-origin educator highlights fast-track UK residency route

The post comes as the UK considers extending settlement timelines for most migrants to up to 10 years.

Kunal Kushwaha / X (Kunal Kushwaha)

Indian-origin tech educator Kunal Kushwaha emphasized a rapid route to UK permanent residency through the Global Talent Visa, particularly as the nation shifts towards extended settlement periods for the majority of migrants.

In a post on X, Kushwaha said he obtained indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in three years after being endorsed under the Exceptional Talent category. “I got my UK permanent residency in 3 years,” Kushwaha wrote, adding that while rules are changing, the Global Talent Visa remains an option for eligible applicants. 

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His remarks come as the UK government considers changes to its immigration framework that could extend the standard qualifying period for settlement to up to 10 years for several visa categories.

Kushwaha said time spent living in the UK counts toward the qualifying period for ILR for those endorsed under the Exceptional Talent route. He outlined the application process as involving two stages: securing an endorsement from an approved endorsing body, followed by applying for the visa.

He said his endorsement was supported by open-source contributions, business work, conference speaking, and professional experience in the cloud industry. He also cited proof of work, pull requests, and industry recognition as factors that strengthened his application.

The post sparked debate online, reflecting broader concerns within migrant communities about the UK’s economic outlook and job market.

One commenter identifying as a long-term UK passport holder cautioned against migration driven solely by settlement prospects, citing limited job opportunities and concerns about long-term financial security.

The discussion unfolds against the backdrop of an ongoing policy review by the UK government, which has indicated plans to introduce an “earned settlement” model.

Under proposed changes, most migrants could face extended residency requirements before qualifying for permanent settlement, while faster routes may remain available only for select categories considered to deliver high economic or strategic value.

The Global Talent Visa, which replaced the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa in 2020, continues to be positioned by UK authorities as a pathway for highly skilled professionals to contribute to the UK economy and potentially settle permanently.

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