Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a crucial step for non-UK nationals who wish to settle permanently in the UK. It grants the right to live, work, and study without any immigration restrictions. This guide explains the UK ILR application process, eligibility requirements, documents needed, processing times, and fees.
What is UK Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows individuals to stay in the UK without time limitations. It is a pathway to British citizenship and offers long-term residency security.
Eligibility Criteria for ILR in the UK
To qualify for ILR, you must meet certain criteria based on your visa type and duration of stay:
1. ILR Through Work Visa
- Lived and worked in the UK for 5 years under a qualifying visa (Skilled Worker, Tier 2 General, etc.).
- Must not have exceeded 180 days of absence in a 12-month period during the qualifying period.
- Meet the salary threshold, usually £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour.
2. ILR Through Family Visa (Spouse, Partner, Parent)
- Lived in the UK for 5 years under a Spouse or Partner Visa.
- Meet the financial requirement (e.g., £18,600 annual income for sponsors).
- Pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement.
3. ILR Through Long Residence
- Lived in the UK legally for 10 years (continuous residence rule applies).
- No serious criminal convictions.
4. ILR Through Asylum or Humanitarian Protection
- Lived in the UK for 5 years as a refugee or under humanitarian protection.
Required Documents for ILR Application
To apply for ILR, you need to submit supporting documents, such as:
- Valid passport and current visa
- Proof of continuous residence (utility bills, rental agreements, payslips, etc.)
- Employment records (if applying through a work visa)
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate (for family-based ILR applications)
- Bank statements and salary slips (for financial eligibility proof)
- Life in the UK test certificate
- English language proficiency proof (IELTS or degree taught in English)
- Criminal record clearance (if applicable)
How to Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the ILR residency and financial criteria.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Prepare all required ILR documents, as missing documents can delay processing.
Step 3: Complete the Online ILR Application Form
Apply on the UK Home Office website using the relevant ILR form:
- Set(O) Form – for work and long residence routes
- Set(M) Form – for spouse/partner routes
- Set(P) Form – for asylum/humanitarian protection
Step 4: Pay the ILR Application Fee
- Standard ILR Fee: £2,885 per applicant
- Priority Processing (5 working days): Additional £500
- Super Priority (24 hours): Additional £1,000
Step 5: Book a Biometrics Appointment
Attend a UKVCAS service point to provide fingerprints, photos, and supporting documents.
Step 6: Await Decision
- Standard Processing Time: Up to 6 months
- Priority Service: 5 working days
- Super Priority Service: 24 hours
ILR Application Processing Time in the UK
The processing time for ILR applications depends on the service you choose:
- Standard Processing: 3 to 6 months
- Priority Service: 5 working days
- Super Priority Service: 24 hours
Common Reasons for ILR Rejection
- Exceeding the allowed absence limit (more than 180 days per year)
- Criminal convictions or unresolved immigration issues
- Failure to meet financial requirements
- Incorrect or missing documents
- Failing the Life in the UK test
What Happens After You Get ILR?
- You can live and work in the UK without restrictions.
- You can apply for British citizenship after 12 months of ILR.
- You must not leave the UK for more than 2 years, or ILR status may be revoked.