Indefinite Leave to Remain
ILR is the gateway to permanent settlement in the UK. We ensure your continuous residence, absences, and life in the UK test are all in order before you apply.
WHAT IS INDEFINITE LEAVE TO REMAIN (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement, allows individuals to live in the UK permanently without any immigration restrictions.
Once granted, you can live, work, and study in the UK without needing further visas. ILR is a key milestone for many migrants and is often the final step before applying for British citizenship.
WITH ILR, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
- Live in the UK permanently
- Work without any restrictions
- Study freely
- Access public funds, including benefits (if eligible)
- Use the National Health Service (NHS)
- Travel in and out of the UK more freely
COMMON ROUTES TO ILR
You may be eligible for ILR through various immigration routes, including:
- 5 years under Skilled Worker or other work routes
- 5 years as a partner (spouse) of a British citizen or settled person
- 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK (Long Residence route)
- 5 years on a UK Ancestry visa
- Other specific routes depending on immigration category
ILR REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for ILR, you must generally meet the following criteria:
- Have completed the required continuous residence period under your visa category
- Not have exceeded 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the qualifying period (subject to route-specific rules)
- Demonstrate good character, including compliance with immigration laws
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Meet the English language requirement (usually B1 level or above, unless exempt)
- Intend to continue living in the UK
AFTER ILR
- You may apply for British citizenship after holding ILR for 12 months (or immediately if married to a British citizen)
- You must not spend more than 2 consecutive years outside the UK, or your ILR status may lapse
Every ILR application is different and requires a tailored approach.
To ensure your application is properly prepared, meets all requirements, and is presented in the strongest possible way, contact us for expert guidance and full support throughout the process.