What is an indefinite leave to remain (ILR)?

Requirements for ILR

The specific requirements differ depending on the particular circumstances of the applicant, including the type of visa they hold.

The most basic requirement for ILR is to have been lawfully living in the UK for a certain period of time. However, there are other requirements which must be fulfilled too.

The general requirements to become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain are based on:

• Lawful living in the UK for a certain period of time.
• No breach of immigration laws during your stay in the UK and no criminal record
• A period of time spent outside the UK which doesn’t exceed 180 days in a 12-month period during the qualifying period.
• A pass in the Life in the UK test, which is a test based on British culture, history and traditions
• Ability to prove that you meet the B1 level of English as set out by the Common European Framework of Languages.

ILR exemptions

Certain individuals will not need to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain to be granted with settled UK status, including:

• Those eligible for British citizenship by descent (or other form of automatic citizenship)
• Child dependents of a British citizen or person with settled status.
• An adult dependent who is reliant on the long-term care of their family member who is a British citizen or person with settled status.
• Refugees resettled in the UK through the Gateway Protection Program

How to apply for an Indefinite Leave to Remain?

If you want to apply for ILR, you must apply online for Indefinite Leave to Remain by using the correct application form depending on your situation.

How to apply?

Here are the steps you need to take to apply for ILR:

Step 1: Check if you are eligible

You need to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements before you apply. The eligibility criteria vary depending on your visa type.

Step 2: Collect the necessary documents

You need to gather all the necessary documents required for your ILR application, including your passport, biometric residence permit, evidence of your continuous residence in the UK, evidence of your knowledge of the English language, and proof of passing the Life in the UK test, if applicable.

Step 3: Fill out the application form

You need to fill out the correct application form online, depending on your eligibility.

Step 4: Pay the application fee

You will need to pay the appropriate application fee when you apply. You do not need to pay the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) fee if you apply for indefinite leave to remain.

 
 
 
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