The Home Office has published the draft of the new Immigration and Citizenship Bill, an overhaul of all immigration laws. In the new bill, which is open for public consultation, current forms of purpose-based visa and duration-based bisa will be replaced two types of immigration permission - temporary and permanent permissions. A qualifying period will be required for those wish to become British citizens, the length of which will be longer than currently required but also vary depending on whether the applicant is actively involved in the community and abiding the laws. The English requirement and knowledge of British life have already been highlighted in recent legislations. The Bill is expected to be passed through the Parliament next year and take effect from 2011.

Read the Home Offce statement on the new bill

Download the draft bill and consultation papers