Indefinite Leave to Remain

If you’re ready to make the UK your permanent home, securing Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) / settlement / permanent residence is a key step. ILR gives you the freedom to live, work, study and build your future in the UK without immigration restrictions. It’s also the gateway to British citizenship.

What is ILR and why does it matter?

ILR, also known as settlement, or permanent residence, means you can stay in the UK indefinitely. As there is no time limit on your stay in the UK, once granted, you no longer need visas or permissions to live, work or study here. Whilst ILR is permanent, it can lapse if you spend extended time outside the UK, so understanding the rules is essential.

Who can apply for ILR?

Not every immigration route leads to Settlement. Common UK visa routes leading to settlement include:

• Family and Private Life: Spouses, partners, parents of British or settled children, long residence
• Tier 2 / skilled worker / international sports person route: Sponsored workers under the points-based Immigration system and their dependant family members
• Business routes: Global Talent, Scale-up, Innovator Founder and a cohort of Investor and Tier 1 Entrepreneurs who are eligible to apply, plus their dependant family members.
• Other routes: UK Ancestry, Hong Kong BN(O), representative of an Overseas Business, and their dependant family members
• EU Settlement Scheme: Qualifying EEA nationals and family members.

Each route has its own settlement requirements, but most applications involve:

• A minimum UK residence period
• Limits on time spent outside the UK
• Passing the Life in the UK Test and meeting English language standards.

How long does it take?

Processing times vary by route and service level. Standard applications can take up to six months, while priority services may be faster.

Fees

Home Office fees vary by category.

There is no health surcharge payable at settlement stage.

Can ILR be lost?

Yes, e.g., if you stay outside the UK for more than two years (or five years for certain EU and EEA citizens – four years if you are also a Swiss citizen or their family member) or commit a serious criminal offence. In some cases, you may return under the Returning Resident route.

What happens next?

Holding ILR is usually a prerequisite for British citizenship. Most applicants wait 12 months after ILR before applying, unless married to a British citizen.

How we support you?

Applying for ILR can feel complex, but we can support you through the full process, providing:

• Clear, practical advice on your eligibility and the best route for your circumstances
• Step-by-step guidance through the application process
• Proactive support to avoid delays and maximise your chances of success.

We understand the importance of this milestone and work with you to achieve it smoothly and confidently.