Law Centre NI has strongly criticised the UK Government's planned earned settlement policy, warning that penalising migrants who claim means-tested benefits will add ten years to their qualifying period.

The policy, due to be set out in detail in December, was announced by the Home Secretary after a public consultation in which most respondents rejected the proposals.

Under the new rules, settlement eligibility will be assessed individually based on contributions and conduct, with faster routes for high earners and delays for factors such as limited English proficiency.

Receipt of means-tested social security benefits will count as a negative factor, extending the time before a migrant can settle.

Law Centre NI said this will shift financial strain onto Northern Ireland's social services and charity sector, which will have to support families left destitute by the policy.

The organisation also said the rule undermines the advice sector's ability to encourage benefit uptake among migrants, noting the government has relaunched a benefits campaign for older people.

Law Centre NI had previously raised concerns that the plans could increase homelessness and child poverty, and that they do not account for family members of Northern Ireland residents who are Irish rather than British.