If you wish to settle in the UK, you may want to obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) so that you can live and work in the UK without restrictions. As with any visa, you must first ensure that you meet certain eligibility criteria before you can apply.
Core ILR eligibility requirements
While some criteria will depend on which route you are choosing, key eligibility requirements for ILR will include:
- Completing a period of continuous, lawful residence in the UK (this can be 2, 3, 5 or 10 years depending on the route)
- Passing the Life in the UK Test (unless exempt)
- Meeting English language test or qualification requirements (unless exempt)
- Continuing to fulfil your current visa route’s requirements
How to know if you are eligible to apply for ILR
Your eligibility will depend on whether you are applying because you have a Work Visa, you have family in the UK, or you have been living in the UK for a minimum of 10 years.
Work or Business Visa holders may be able to apply after 2 or 3 years of residence:
Please note that some of these visas may have additional financial or income requirements.
Other routes
There are other paths to ILR. You may be eligible on the basis of your Long Residence, if you have spent 10 continuous years in the UK with a mix of Visa categories.
If you had Indefinite Leave to Remain in the past, you may be eligible to apply for a transfer, replacement or as a Returning Resident.
Contact Immigration law experts
You may find it helpful to hire immigration lawyers to ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain, and that your case is clearly presented to increase your chances of success. If you would like to discuss your case with an experienced member of the team, please get in touch today.
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