EARN YOUR PLACE

Waiting time to settle extended | Critics say it will hit refugees.

- DAVE BURKE

SHABANA Mahmood has announced the biggest overhaul of legal migration rules in 50 years - with high earners and skilled NHS workers set to get priority.

The Home Secretary said the new measures - which would extend the length of time before migrants can apply for permanent settlement - will reward those who contribute to the economy and play by the rules.

She proposes setting the standard qualifying period at 10 years up from its current five years with a range of rewards and penalties that would lengthen or shorten that period.

This means some including NHS doctors and nurses, entrepreneurs and high earners - would be fast-tracked, while others will not be eligible for decades.